Browse ›
A grandma gently bathing a wet calico cat in a sudsy galvanized metal tub in a backyard. 16 / 31

Bath Time in Grandma's Old Metal Washtub. Maple Has Feelings About It.

AI imagegrandmacalico catbath time

Bubbles everywhere, and one very patient calico. In the middle of the backyard, Grandma leans over an old galvanized metal tub filled with soapy water, gently holding Maple steady as suds cling to the cat's white chest. Maple sits upright with wide green eyes and ears slightly back, wearing the resigned look of a cat who knows this will be over soon but would prefer it ended immediately. Grandma's chunky cardigan sleeves are pushed up, and the yard behind her holds a blue bucket, a few potted plants, a garden hose and scattered tools.

Most cats rarely need baths, since they are excellent self-groomers and spend a good part of the day cleaning their fur. Occasionally, though, a bath becomes necessary, such as when a cat gets into something sticky or is too old or unwell to groom properly. If you do bathe a cat, use lukewarm water, a shampoo made for cats rather than human products, and keep water away from the eyes and ears. Work calmly and quickly, then towel dry thoroughly in a warm room. Many owners find it helps to trim nails beforehand. If your cat becomes very stressed or seems to need frequent baths, talk to your vet or a professional groomer.

Outdoor bathing should be saved for warm days so a damp cat does not get chilled.

Maple may never forgive the indignity entirely, but a cozy towel and a treat afterward should help.

More from this collection

All 31 →
A grandma holding a calico cat up to a frosty window as snow falls outside, with a lamp glowing beside them.The First Snow Was Falling, and Grandma Didn't Want Maple to Miss a FlakeA grandma on a yoga mat reaching for her toes while a calico cat stretches its front legs forward beside her.Grandma Rolled Out Her Yoga Mat. Her Calico Joined the Class.
A grandma whittling a small piece of wood with a knife on the porch while a calico cat watches the shavings pile up.Grandma Was Whittling on the Porch. Maple Was Tracking Every Shaving.A smiling grandma kneeling to tuck a calico cat into a round plush pet bed with a cream knit blanket.Bedtime for Maple, and Grandma Takes Tucking In Very SeriouslyA grandma wrapping a damp, grumpy-looking calico cat in a plaid blanket near a door with a raincoat and boots.The Walk Got Rained Out. Maple Wants You to Know It Wasn't Her Idea.A smiling grandma holding a calico cat in her arms at the bottom of wooden porch steps in the evening.The Porch Light Was On, and Grandma Carried Maple Home the Last Few Steps