A Calico Kitten Claimed the Sled Before Anyone Could Take a Turn
A wooden sled with a rope handle sits in the yard, and inside, snug on a gray plaid blanket, is a very small calico kitten. Her orange, black and white patches blend with the folds of fabric, and her amber eyes are fixed on something just off-camera. Snow blankets the lawn and bushes, and behind her a front door wears a red-ribboned wreath and a pair of boots waits on the step.
Calico describes a coat pattern, not a breed. The patches of white, orange and black can show up in many breeds, and nearly all calicos are female, thanks to the genetics of coat color. Beyond the coloring, each calico has her own personality, and many are described as spirited and curious.
A sled ride looks adorable, but kittens need extra care in the cold. Their small bodies lose heat faster than adults, so snow time should be short, and a warm towel and a cozy indoor spot should be ready afterward. Never place a cat on a moving sled or let her roam far from the house, since young cats can slip away or get startled easily. Your vet can offer advice on keeping cats comfortable in winter.
For now the sled is parked, the blanket is soft, and the passenger is very pleased. Wherever she is going, she is going in style.
