The Holiday Kitchen Got a New Sous Chef, and He Brought His Own Apron

The kitchen is bustling, a pot is steaming on the stove, and the newest sous chef has reported for duty. A black and white tuxedo kitten sits on the counter wearing a tiny beige apron with a front pocket, his white bib and paws making the outfit look extra professional. He gazes intently at the cutting board in front of him, where chopped celery, carrots, and fresh herbs wait for the stuffing. Around him, the counter overflows with holiday ingredients: a skillet of roasted Brussels sprouts, a bowl of cranberries, a basket of rolls, onions, garlic, and a pair of small pumpkins on the windowsill.

Busy holiday kitchens can be risky places for curious kittens. Hot stovetops, simmering pots, and sharp knives are obvious hazards, and kittens often jump onto counters without realizing a burner is still hot. Several common Thanksgiving ingredients are also unsafe for cats, especially onions, garlic, leeks, and chives, which can harm red blood cells. Raw dough and some herbs used in large amounts can also cause problems. During cooking, it's safest to keep kittens out of the kitchen, perhaps in another room with a toy or a cozy bed. If a kitten does eat something worrying, call your vet promptly.

This little chef looks so serious that he might just be planning his own menu. Still, he'll make a fine taste tester of plain turkey, once the meal is safely on the table.