An Orange Longhair Inspected the Cookies Meant for Santa
A plate of chocolate chip cookies sits on the table, crumbs scattered beside it, and an orange longhair has her nose a few inches from the nearest one. Her ears are tilted forward, her eyes are lowered, and her fluffy copper fur fills most of the frame. The room behind her is full of the signs of a happy holiday, with plaid blankets, a pine garland, a mound of toys on the floor, and a pair of slippers resting by the couch.
Cookies for Santa are a wonderful tradition, but they raise a real safety point for pets. Chocolate is toxic to cats and dogs, and the ingredients in many cookies, such as raisins, macadamia nuts, and sugar substitutes like xylitol, can also be harmful. Cats are curious sniffers, and a plate left out overnight is an invitation. Cover the treats or place them out of reach, and if your pet eats any, call your vet or an animal poison hotline right away. Orange longhair cats are often friendly and relaxed, but even the gentlest cat can be tempted by a snack on the table.
She is only investigating, of course, doing her duty on behalf of the North Pole. Santa will understand if a cat checks the cookies first. Her whiskers are nearly touching the plate, and the cookie crumbs tell a story of their own.






