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An older man in a brown cardigan sits on back steps gently brushing the fur of a fluffy grey cat sitting in front of him. 31 / 40

Brushing Day on the Back Steps. Sterling Is Trying Very Hard to Look Unbothered.

AI imagerussian bluecat groomingback steps

Sunlight warms the back steps as Grandpa settles in for a grooming session. Wearing a brown cardigan and glasses, he leans forward and runs a small brush through Sterling's fur with slow, careful strokes. The cat sits tall and still, his thick grey coat fluffed out from the brushing, green eyes half closed in an expression that falls somewhere between tolerance and enjoyment. Sneakers, a laundry basket, a potted plant, and a pair of slippers are scattered near the doorway behind them.

Russian Blues have a short, dense double coat that's famously plush to the touch. It doesn't usually mat, but regular brushing, about once a week, helps remove loose hair and keeps the coat shiny. Brushing also cuts down on hairballs, since cats swallow less fur during their own grooming. Grooming sessions are a good time for a quick health check, too. Look for lumps, scabs, fleas, or areas that seem tender, and glance at ears, eyes, and teeth. If your cat starts grooming much less than usual, or if its coat suddenly looks greasy or patchy, it's a good idea to talk to your vet, since changes in grooming can sometimes signal an underlying issue.

Sterling is putting up with every stroke like the gentleman he is. A shiny coat, a few quiet minutes, and plenty of attention: for a cat, that's a perfectly good way to spend an afternoon.

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