A Tuxedo Cat Stands Guard on the Snowy, Garland-Covered Steps
Snow dusts the black fur on his head, and the evergreen garland along the porch step is sprinkled with white and studded with pinecones. A tuxedo cat sits upright on the cold boards, white chest bright, green eyes steady, as if guarding the front door on Christmas morning. The porch behind him is quiet, with a pale window and a weathered railing.
Outdoor holiday decorations can be tricky for pets. Real evergreens, such as pine and fir, can upset a cat's stomach if chewed, and some holiday plants, like holly, mistletoe, and lilies, are more dangerous. Lilies in particular are very toxic to cats, so skip them in arrangements or keep them out of the house. If your cat likes to nibble on decorations, a vet can advise you on what is safe.
Many cats also like to sit by the door because it gives them a view of everything that is happening and a chance to greet visitors. Keeping a mat or a small blanket near the entry gives them a comfortable place to wait, and keeping the door closed keeps your cat from slipping out into the cold. Winter weather can be hard on cats, so any time outside should be brief.
For this fellow, the post is simple. He sits on his snowy step with patient dignity, a small formal doorman in a black coat, waiting for the next guest to arrive.
