Cats and Snow: Miki May Be Having Second Thoughts
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Hi, I’m Dr. Maja! Read my introduction to learn more about me and Miki, the kitten who made me a cat person.
Last winter, we had very little snow. And Miki hated it. He spent the least amount of time outside and every step he took, was a clear sign of disapproval and discontent. But this year, things seem to have taken a turn for the better. It snowed just now at the end of November, and I half expected him to hate it. But then something weird happened. Miki actually stayed outside and was running around the snow-covered fields with the dogs. Could Miki be growing fond of it? Even little Minnie took a few steps outside and experienced it for the first time.
Everyone Loves Snow! Or Do They?
Snow. Endless cover of white everywhere around and a deep sense of stillness about it. Until little paws start to leave their mark. The dogs and I love it, and there is no doubt about it. Lava will roll in it, running around like crazy, and even Hela started to enjoy it and kept prompting me to go outside. And Miki’s reaction this time was a pleasant surprise. He ventured outside like any other morning, initially seemed confused, and tried to stick to the paved ground that remained clean and snow-free. But as he realized the dogs and I were going for a walk, he followed with a bit more enthusiasm.
Soon enough, from a grumpy cat last winter, he became a playful cat, running around on the snow, stopping to sniff and pounce, and even leading the way on our usual walk. It was a nice sight, the three of them strolling casually on fresh snow.
A Black Cat On A White Background
Miki’s coat color has now become a nice contrast to the white background, and his black fur stuck out, even when he was sniffing in a nearby bush. As the snow was actively falling, he had flakes on top of his head and body, not seeming too annoyed with it, in all honesty. Or maybe that’s just my wishful thinking. Either way, it was the cutest sight ever, but not an easy one to get a picture of. Black cats and cameras just don’t seem to get along.
It Must Feel Soft And Fluffy
Watching Miki walk on the snow-covered paths, and the ease and gratefulness of each step he takes, it’s hard not to wonder how it must feel to his paws. Walking on snow in boots, especially when it’s dry and fresh, making the crunching and swishing soft sound, is one of the best feelings if you ask me. But our feet stay warm and cozy in socks. For Miki, I imagine it’s a combination of dry cold, maybe some wet as well, with a fluffy and soft feeling. I guess it may even be pleasant until it gets too cold or his little paws get wet. Either way, as soon as he came back inside, he was vigilant in making himself look as beautiful as he did before setting foot outside.
Minnie Was Very Confused
This was Minnie’s first snow. As she is still very little, she only comes out with us for a few minutes at a time and not even every day. That day, she could see it snowing but didn’t seem too interested in what was going on outside. But after the walk with Miki and the dogs, I got her out for just a couple of minutes so she could experience it for the first time. She is so small and fragile-looking, and it fascinates me how fierce and brave she actually is. She took a few steps and looked very confused but determined for a whole minute. Then she walked back to the front door and jumped back inside. I like to think it’s the cold that she disliked, more than the white fluff under her paws, but we’ll find out in time.
And my latest addition, the little ginger kitten Nara, has not yet had the chance to explore the great outdoors, as she’s only been with us for two weeks, so I still have her reactions to snow to look forward to in the coming weeks and months. It’s a full house.
- Read her previous article: How Quickly Do Cats Become Friends? Miki and Minnie
- Read her next article: Multi-Cat Household Dynamics: Miki, Minnie & Nara