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A seal point Birman cat with blue eyes sits in a hallway beside a pile of chewed and frayed shoes. 20 / 23

The Birman Is Sitting Very Still Beside a Whole Pile of Chewed Shoes

AI imagebirman catchewed shoeshallway

Beside a heap of chewed-up shoes, the seal point Birman sits with her chest puffed and her ears pulled back, gazing off to one side with sky-blue eyes. The shoes are frayed at the toes, torn at the laces, and missing bits of leather and fabric. Behind her, a plant sits near a laundry basket full of clothes, a pile of colorful toy blocks lies on the carpet in the next room, and a sofa sits in the background. The light is warm, and the cat is perfectly composed, with only the ears giving away her worry.

Cats sometimes chew on things like shoes, especially when they are bored, teething, or simply drawn to the smell. Leather and laces are interesting, and shoes smell strongly of their owners, which is comforting to many cats. Put shoes in a closet or on a high shelf, and give your cat safe alternatives, such as soft cat toys and chew-safe items. Swallowed laces or bits of material can be dangerous, so call your vet if you think your cat swallowed something. Birmans are social cats who like company, and extra play sessions can help keep them busy.

This one has a lot on her mind. The shoes have clearly seen some action, but the cat looks neat and gentle. It is the quiet tension of an animal who knows the shoe collection has been reduced and is not sure what the household will say.

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