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A cream British Shorthair cat sleeps curled on a wooden mantel beneath hanging red, cream and green stockings. 19 / 22

The Cream Cat Took the Mantel and Left the Stockings Alone

AI imagebritish shorthairmantelstockings

The mantel is the best bed in the house, at least according to the cream-colored cat curled up on top of it. Her tail wraps around her body, her eyes are closed and she is tucked into a nest of fresh pine garland and pinecones. Three stockings hang above her, in red, cream and green. Below the mantel is a room full of books, mugs and toys, and a framed photo hangs on the wall nearby. She sleeps as if there is nowhere else to be.

Cats love high places, and a mantel offers warmth, safety and a good view. If you put a pine garland or candles on a mantel, remember the safety rules. Pine needles can irritate a cat's mouth and stomach if chewed, and open flames can burn a curious paw or a swishing tail. Use battery candles and cat-safe decorations, and keep an eye out for chewing. British Shorthairs are calm cats and often love a quiet nap in a high, warm place.

The stockings are hung and the cat is in place, and there is a sweet calm to the whole scene. She sleeps as if she has done her holiday duty. Santa may have to step carefully, but he will be glad to see such a peaceful house. A cat on a mantel is a holiday tradition all its own.

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