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A silver tabby cat lies on a knit blanket by a stone fireplace with five yellow chicks snuggled against it. 20 / 36

Five Chicks Burrowed Into a Tabby by the Fireplace. Now He Can't Move a Paw.

AI imageamerican shorthairbaby chicksfireplace

A stone fireplace stacked with split logs anchors this cozy living room, and in front of it, on a chunky cream knit blanket, a silver tabby American Shorthair has become the warmest seat in the house. Five yellow chicks have burrowed into the curve of his body, some leaning on his striped legs, one tucked against his chest, and one perched up by his chin. The cat holds perfectly still, green eyes calm, as if he knows that moving even one paw would cause a fluffy avalanche. A potted plant on the mantel and a basket by the hearth complete the rustic scene.

Warmth is the single most important thing for young chicks, which is why they instinctively pile together or crowd under a hen. Without a mother, keepers use a brooder with a heat source, commonly starting around 90 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit for the first week and lowering it gradually as the chicks grow feathers. The chicks themselves are the best thermometer. Birds crowded right under the heat are likely cold, birds spread far away and panting are likely too hot, and chicks scattered comfortably around the space, eating and napping, are just right. Safe, securely mounted heating equipment helps reduce fire risk.

Of course, a big fuzzy cat by the fire makes a far cuter heat lamp. Everyone here looks thoroughly toasted and completely content.

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