A Kitten in a Skeleton Sweater Gazed Out at the Sunny Porch
Sunshine pours through an open front door, and a smoky blue-gray kitten sits right at the threshold, wearing a black sweater printed with a white skeleton. Her yellow-green eyes are gazing out at the world, her ears pricked, and her head turned slightly toward the porch. Outside, a small pumpkin and a plastic spider decoration sit near the doormat. Inside, a blue tote bag, a jacket on a hook, and a row of shoes line the hall. Let's call her Bones, because the sweater says so.
Sweaters and outfits are not necessary for most cats, since they come with a warm coat of their own, but a light, comfortable one can be a fun accessory for a short time. The test is simple: she should be able to walk, sit, jump, and groom normally, and the garment shouldn't ride up or pinch under the legs. Choose soft stretchy fabric with no strings or buttons, and take it off if she tries to chew it or looks unhappy.
An open door raises another point. Curious cats and open doors are a risky mix, especially during Halloween when the door keeps opening and closing. A kitten can dart out in seconds, so it is wise to keep her in another room during busy hours, or to use a baby gate or screen door. Indoor cats should always have an ID tag or a microchip, and your vet can help you keep the contact information up to date.
Bones, for her part, is only looking and not leaping. Today it is enough to sit in the sunlight with a skeleton on her back and watch the leaves blow by.
