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A calico cat sitting in dug-up garden soil with a fence and watering can behind her, looking wide-eyed 3 / 27

The New Seedlings Were Not Ready for This Calico's Big Dig

AI imagecalico catgardencaught in the act

Fresh dark soil spreads around a calico cat who sits very still in the middle of the garden. Her orange, black, and white coat glows against the earth, her wide eyes look straight ahead, and her white paws have a touch of dirt on them. Tiny twigs and sprouts lie scattered about, a green watering can sits by the fence, and some pots wait in the background. Whoever planted this bed would be surprised to see how it has been rearranged.

Cats are natural diggers and often treat loose garden soil like a giant litter box, which is one reason flower beds are so tempting. The soft, warm earth is also pleasant for rolling and stretching. Calico cats, with their patched coats, are almost always female, and many owners describe them as bold and independent. Gardens can hide hazards, though. Some common plants, such as lilies, are poisonous to cats, and fertilizers or slug bait can be harmful. If your cat gets into something unusual, call your vet. Covering bare soil with chicken wire or large stones, and offering a sandy digging spot, can help protect plants.

At this moment, she looks as innocent as can be, as though the garden was already like this. The plants may need replanting, but she has certainly enjoyed her project. A quick brush and a wipe of her paws should make her ready for an afternoon nap.

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