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A smiling grandpa in a plaid shirt gently bathes a wet white cat in a soapy galvanized metal tub in a cluttered garden. 13 / 22

Earl Filled the Old Metal Tub With Bubbles. Pearl Knew Exactly What That Meant.

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Out in the garden, between clay flowerpots, a coiled hose, and a wicker basket, Earl has set up an old galvanized tub full of warm, soapy water. Pearl is standing in it up to her belly, her usually fluffy white coat now slicked down and dripping, which makes her look about half her normal size. Earl kneels beside the tub with his sleeves pushed up, one steady hand cupped around her side and a gentle smile on his face. Pearl looks off into the distance with a patient, slightly long-suffering expression, as if she has agreed to this exactly once and will be filing a complaint later.

Most cats rarely need a full bath, because they do an impressive job of grooming themselves. Baths are usually reserved for times when a cat gets into something sticky, smelly, or unsafe to lick off, or when a vet recommends it for a skin issue. If a bath is necessary, use lukewarm water, a shampoo made specifically for cats, and keep water away from the eyes and ears. Many human and dog products are not safe for cats. Work calmly, rinse thoroughly, and dry your cat with a towel in a warm room so she does not get chilled. Long-haired cats benefit more from regular brushing than from frequent bathing.

Pearl is handling it like a champion, even if her dignity has taken a small hit. Soon she will be bundled in a towel, back to her cloud-like self, and probably pretending none of this ever happened.

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