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A fluffy brown tabby kitten wearing a black pirate hat, eye patch and brown vest sits on a wooden porch near pumpkins. 4 / 25

The Smallest Pirate on the Block Guarded the Porch Treasure

AI imagetabby kittennorwegian forest catpirate costume

Arrr, there is a new captain on the porch. A fluffy brown tabby kitten sits on the weathered boards wearing a black tricorn hat that is slightly too big, a shiny eye patch over one eye, and a little leather-look vest with brass buttons. The other eye, round and wide, is fixed on something just out of frame. Behind him sit a pot of orange mums and a jack-o'-lantern, and dried corn stalks lean against the siding. Let's call him Captain Whiskers.

Norwegian Forest Cats, the breed named in this scene, are big, sturdy cats with thick double coats built for cold climates, and even as kittens you can see the tufty ears and bushy tail starting to develop. They are known for being friendly and good climbers, so a pirate who scales the mast, or the bookshelf, is right on theme. Their long fur does tangle, so regular brushing, especially through a seasonal shed, keeps the coat in good shape.

If your kitten gets dressed up, an eye patch is one of the trickier accessories, since it can block vision and make a small animal feel off balance. A safer approach is a costume that only sits on the body, or just a bandana. Keep dress-up sessions short, reward with a treat, and never leave a costume on a kitten who is out of sight. A quick photo and then the costume comes off is a perfectly fine plan.

For the moment, the captain looks ready to defend the porch against all comers, or at least against any wandering leaf. Treasure may be scarce, but the pumpkins are plentiful.

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