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A silver tabby American Shorthair with wide eyes sits on a white bedspread covered in muddy paw prints. 20 / 30

Fresh Sheets, Fresh Mud: The Tabby Added Her Own Paw-Print Artwork

AI imageamerican shorthaircaught in the actmuddy paws

The bedspread was white this morning. Now it is covered in muddy paw prints, long streaky smears, and a few dark splashes where the cat clearly skidded across the quilt. The silver tabby sits in the center of the mess with an upright posture, perfectly round eyes, and a patient stare, like someone waiting for applause. Even the pillow has been marked, and a few stuffed toys look on from the nightstand.

American Shorthairs are sturdy, easygoing cats with a long history as working mousers. They are generally friendly, adaptable, and playful, and they enjoy exploring the outdoors if given the chance. Muddy paws are what you get when a cat goes outside, or when she splashes through a puddle by a window. A small towel or pet-safe wipe by the door makes it easy to clean her feet before she hops on the furniture. Check her paws for burrs and thorns as you wipe, and wash the bedding in a pet-safe detergent. If she spends time outdoors, ask your vet about parasite prevention and vaccines. For indoor adventurers, a washable blanket laid over the bed makes cleanup a lot easier.

The tabby looks entirely satisfied with the new pattern. Some people hang art in the bedroom, and some cats simply make their own. At least the quilt will survive a trip through the washing machine, and she will certainly be back on it tonight.

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