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A long-haired white cat sits beside stacked hay bales decorated with pumpkins, autumn leaves, and a toy spider on a porch. 5 / 23

The Hay Bale Maze on the Porch Has a Gatekeeper, and She Takes It Seriously

AI imagewhite cathalloweenhay bales

Stacked hay bales form a little maze on the front walk, decorated with small pumpkins, a white gourd, scattered maple leaves, and one large black plastic spider perched on top. At the entrance sits a fluffy white cat with a long, soft coat and bright golden-green eyes, gazing off to the side like a gatekeeper who takes the job very seriously. A pot of rust-colored mums brightens the porch steps behind her, beside a green watering can, a pair of sneakers, and a stack of firewood near the door.

Fall decorations are part of the fun, but a few are worth a second look in a home with pets. Chrysanthemums, the popular autumn mums, can cause drooling, vomiting, or skin irritation in cats and dogs if chewed. Small plastic decorations, like toy spiders or fake eyeballs, can be swallowed, and loose straw may hide sharp bits or develop mold when it gets damp. Fake cobwebs and string can tangle around paws or be eaten. Placing plants and small decor out of reach, sweeping up loose straw, and keeping an eye on curious pets around new displays helps everyone enjoy the season safely.

This elegant white cat seems happy to simply admire the decorations rather than taste them. With her serene expression, she might be the most graceful part of the whole display.

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