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A tortoiseshell cat holds a chewed-up gray slipper in its mouth with a faint smile. 23 / 30

The Tortoiseshell Brought the Chewed Slipper Right to the Living Room

AI imagetortoiseshellslipperliving room

Some cats leave gifts at the door, and this tortoiseshell has brought hers all the way into the living room. She holds a gray slipper firmly in her jaws, the toe chewed ragged and the lining coming apart, and looks straight ahead with a small, pleased smile. Her mottled coat of black, copper and gold catches the daylight, and her green eyes are alert.

Tortoiseshell cats are famous for their patchwork coloring and what owners call tortitude, a spirited, feisty personality. While coat color does not scientifically decide behavior, many tortie owners swear by it. Whatever the cause, this cat clearly has strong opinions about slippers.

Cats sometimes carry soft objects as a form of hunting play, and a slipper has a warm, familiar scent of her person, which makes it even more appealing. It is worth keeping shoes in a closet if a cat likes to chew, since swallowed bits of fabric or rubber can be dangerous. A soft plush toy of her own, ideally the same size as her prize, can make a good swap.

If a cat has been chewing a lot of fabric, or seems to be swallowing it, check in with your vet. In the meantime, this one is delighted with her trophy. The slipper may not be wearable again, but she has never looked happier.

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