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A white cat with narrowed eyes holds a bundle of striped and gray socks in its mouth in a sunny hallway. 12 / 21

A White Cat Marched Off With a Whole Mouthful of Stolen Socks

AI imagewhite catstolen sockscaught in the act

She has the socks, and she knows you know. A white cat holds a mouthful of gray and blue striped socks, her eyes narrowed into a small, content smile. Her ears are relaxed, her whiskers brush the fabric, and sunlight glows on her cheeks.

Behind her, a laundry basket has been tipped over and more socks are scattered across the wood floor. A couch and a blanket are visible further down the hallway. We'll call her Sock Thief Sally, or just Sally for short. The haul was evidently good, and she is not going to share it.

Many cats like to carry things, from toys to socks to shoes. It can be a natural hunting behavior, carrying prey to a safe place, and socks smell strongly of their person, which makes them comforting. In small amounts it's harmless, but socks and string-like fabric can be a danger if swallowed, since they can cause an intestinal blockage that needs veterinary care. If your cat tends to take fabric, keep laundry in a closed hamper and offer a soft plush toy she can carry instead, one that's safe and made for cats. Play sessions with a wand toy can help use up her hunting drive. If she ever vomits, stops eating, or seems uncomfortable after chewing fabric, call your vet right away.

Sally holds on tight, with the contented look of a cat who just won the day and plans to keep the prize.

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