The Box Under the Tree Had Round Amber Eyes Inside
The lid is half off, the red tissue paper is crumpled around him and a round orange face with huge amber eyes is looking straight up from the box. The red tabby Exotic Shorthair kitten has nestled into the gift and seems fully prepared to be unwrapped. A red ribbon sits on the cardboard above him, a pine sprig lies on the table and soft window light spills across a living room that looks lived in and loved.
Exotic Shorthairs are often described as the shorthaired cousin of the Persian, with the same sweet, round face and calm, easygoing personality. They tend to be quiet, affectionate lap cats, but the flat facial structure can lead to watery eyes and, in some cats, breathing trouble, so wiping the face gently and talking to your vet about dental and respiratory care is wise. Boxes are a cat's favorite hiding place because the snug walls create a feeling of safety, and a gift box is no exception. Remove loose ribbon and tape before letting a kitten play in it, since they can be swallowed.
The best present of the season is wrapped in orange fur and tissue paper. He is clearly waiting for someone to notice and, with a face like that, it will not take long for the whole room to gather around.
