The General Is Stern and Spotless, and Quite Fond of Naps

The general has inspected the troops and found them satisfactory. A silver tabby with bold dark stripes across his cheeks and forehead, he gazes out with round amber eyes and a face as serious as a war council. His navy coat is heavy with gold embroidery, and a crimson sash crosses his chest from one gilded epaulette to a cluster of medals. The lighting is dramatic, with warm highlights on his whiskers and deep shadow behind him.

There is humor in how perfectly the cat fits the role. The stern brow, the straight posture and the unblinking stare all say that nothing escapes his attention, from a stray moth to a dropped crumb under the dining table.

American Shorthairs have a long history as working cats. Their ancestors traveled to North America on ships and then guarded barns and homes from mice, and the breed still has a sturdy, athletic build. The silver tabby pattern is a classic for them, with clear markings on a silvery coat. They tend to be easygoing, adaptable and friendly with families, and they usually enjoy play without being demanding. Because they like food as much as the next cat, measure meals and keep up play sessions to help them stay lean, and ask your vet about the right diet for your cat's age and size.

The medals are impressive, but the general's real victories are probably the sunny windowsill and the warmest spot on the sofa.