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A calico kitten stands on a wooden coffee table next to a large cream mug of hot cocoa topped with marshmallows. 21 / 23

A Calico Kitten Found a Mug of Cocoa and Needed a Closer Look

AI imagecalico kittenchristmashot cocoa

A small calico kitten has wandered onto the coffee table and is now eye to rim with a giant mug of cocoa. The marshmallows float in the middle like little clouds, and she gazes at the cup with big green eyes and perked ears. Behind her, a grey sofa piled with plaid and cable-knit pillows, a stack of books and a glowing tree complete the cozy holiday living room.

Kittens are curious about anything their people hold or drink, and warm mugs have an extra pull. Cocoa, though, is not for cats. Chocolate is toxic to cats and dogs, and the sugar and dairy are not good for them either. Caffeine and sweeteners such as xylitol can also be dangerous, so any hot drink is best kept covered or out of reach.

If a pet does lap up some cocoa or chocolate, contact your vet or a pet poison helpline right away rather than waiting for symptoms. A good habit is to place mugs on higher surfaces and use lids if kittens are around. A shallow bowl of fresh water and a small cat-safe treat can offer a harmless alternative when the cat is feeling left out.

Right now the cocoa is untouched, and the kitten is simply deciding how impressed to be. The marshmallows, for the record, look wonderful from where she sits.

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