The Snowman Finally Had Company, and It Was Ginger

Two winter residents share a patch of backyard snow: a small snowman with a carrot nose and a red plaid scarf, and a big orange cat with a full ginger mane. The cat sits close beside his frosty friend, eyes narrowed in a calm squint, the tips of his paws dusted with white. Behind them is a gray sky, a wooden fence and a house with a wreath on the door. It looks as if the two of them have been standing guard for hours.

Cats with long, dense fur can handle brief chilly moments better than some, but they still are not made for long stretches outdoors in winter. Frostbite can affect ears, paws and tails, and wet fur loses its warmth quickly. If your cat likes to explore the snow, keep visits short, stay close and dry them off with a towel when you come in. Outdoor cats also need a warm shelter, and many families prefer to keep their cats indoors where it is safe and toasty. Your vet can give advice for your area.

Snowmen make wonderful company for a pet photo because they are so patient. They never fidget and never complain about the cold. This orange cat seems to have found a kindred spirit, someone who is also bundled up and quite happy to sit and watch the yard.