The Calico Baron Held Up His Watch and Made an Announcement
A gold pocket watch dangles from one white lace-cuffed paw, its chain swaying slightly, and the calico baron looks straight at the viewer with round, golden eyes. His face is a cheerful patchwork of white, orange and black. He wears a blue velvet coat with gold embroidery down the front, gold epaulette stripes and a frilly white cravat, and a candle burns beside him in the shadows. A light glints on the watch, and the whole scene feels like the instant before a very important announcement.
Cats have a remarkable sense of time. Many seem to know exactly when breakfast is due, wake their owners a few minutes before the alarm and show up at the door when you usually come home. Part of this comes from their daily routines, since cats thrive on predictable schedules for feeding, play and rest. Regular mealtimes, a consistent play session and a calm bedtime routine help cats feel secure. If your cat pesters you for food at odd hours, an automatic feeder or a slightly larger evening meal might help, but ask your vet first. Keep a close eye on any change in appetite, since a cat that stops eating should be checked by a veterinarian.
The baron knows the exact hour of tea, and he will let you know about it, politely, with a very long stare.
