saving overexposed cat images

I have an extensive half-day walk equipped with 300mm tele and 100mm macro lenses. Got fantastic harvest! Ducks, mushrooms, covid-masked-folks, acorns, sprouts, and ofc course cats. I've met 6 cats today! but shoot only this one, a quirky red sympatico I've met in the park.

1st shot is made according the Rule of Thirds, and 2nd is not. Curious, which one looks better to you? Your catback would be appreciated!

taken with Canon 5D +70-300mm

stay home! stay healthy! and if you held out your hand, then do not forget to stroke the cat. any day is good enough to be Caturday!