The Vase of Roses Was Fine Until a Grey Tabby Looked at It
Warm afternoon light falls across a wood floor scattered with pink rose petals and broken shards of a cream-colored vase. Sitting right next to the wreckage is a grey tabby with big round eyes, tilting his head up in a look that is half innocence and half apology. Slippers rest by the wall, a blanket drapes over the sofa, and a few roses lie on their sides, still pretty even after the fall.
Cats love knocking things off tables. It is partly play, since a falling object moves, makes noise, and invites a chase, and partly curiosity, because they investigate the world with their paws. Some also learn quickly that the fall gets their person's attention. Keep breakables away from edges, use museum putty or a weighted base for vases, and give your cat something else to bat around. Broken ceramic is sharp, so keep him away until you have swept every piece, and check his paws for cuts afterward. Also remember that some flowers are harmful to cats, especially lilies, so it is wise to check any bouquet before bringing it home. Roses themselves are not considered toxic, but thorns can scratch curious paws. If he nibbles something unusual, call your vet.
His face says everything: he did not mean it, the vase was already leaning, and he would very much like to be forgiven. It is hard to say no.
