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A cinnamon Abyssinian cat lies in orange autumn leaves beside a tortoise on a patio. 2 / 31

The Abyssinian Waited While Old Gus Crossed the Leaf Pile

AI imageabyssiniantortoiseautumn leaves

Dry leaves in orange, brown, and gold have drifted into a corner of the patio, and two friends have claimed the pile. A cinnamon Abyssinian cat lies on her belly with her paws stretched forward and her big, alert ears pricked. Facing her, an old tortoise has pushed his head through the leaves, his neck extended and his shell speckled with moss. Behind them, a potted plant and a wooden fence catch the afternoon light.

Abyssinians are lively, curious cats with sleek, ticked coats, known for their love of exploring and climbing. They tend to investigate everything, so a tortoise is a fascinating find. Tortoises, for their part, enjoy basking in warm sun, and autumn leaves can give them cover as they graze. Keep in mind that tortoises are sensitive to cold, so when the temperature drops, they need a warm, safe shelter, and your vet can advise on proper seasonal care. Leaves can also hide hazards, so check the pile for anything sharp or toxic before letting a pet roam in it.

Let's call the tortoise Gus. He is deliberate, and the Abyssinian is practicing patience, which is a hard thing for her. She taps one leaf, and it crackles. Gus does not flinch. A moment later she tries another, and he takes a slow step forward. The two of them have a game going, and neither one is in any rush to win it.

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