A Silver Tabby Ship Captain Takes the Helm in His Tricorn Hat

Captain Barnaby stands ready on the quarterdeck of a painting, his gold-trimmed tricorn hat set squarely above his yellow eyes. The silver tabby American Shorthair wears a navy coat with rows of gold buttons, braided trim and heavy gold epaulettes on both shoulders. The stripes of his coat are painted so carefully that each swirl catches the light, and a stormy, dark background gives the scene the feel of a ship's cabin in the evening. The surface is lightly cracked, as old paintings are, and he looks as if he has seen a few storms.

American Shorthairs are descended from the cats that traveled with early settlers to America, where they were valued as working mousers on farms and ships. Their sturdy build, good health and friendly, easygoing nature have made them one of the most popular breeds in the country. Silver tabby is one of the most recognizable color patterns, with dark stripes on a silvery coat. They are usually good with families and other pets, and they stay playful well into adulthood. They tend to enjoy a good chase with a wand toy or a laser-free toy, and a cat tree gives them a lookout of their own. Watch their portions, since they enjoy their food, and ask your vet for the right diet for your cat's age and size.

With a stare like that, Barnaby could steer through any storm. The crew can rest easy, and so can the mice.