A Step on the Grate

Click. My hind leg shifted. I tilted my head, eyes wide. Beneath me wasn't cardboard, but cold dark metal slats. In front stood a huge bright box showing my exact likeness. Chirp? I took one cautious step forward. My front paw reached out and lightly tapped the smooth glossy corner of the printed box. It didn't flinch. I swished my tail slightly and stayed crouched right on the metal shelf edge.