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An elderly couple in cream sweaters scrub a car with sponges as a white Persian cat stands up and paws at the hose spray. 30 / 34

Cats Are Supposed to Hate Water. Duchess Saw the Hose and Stood Up.

AI imagepersian catcar washdriveway

Car wash day is in full swing in the driveway. Frank is scrubbing the side window with a soapy yellow sponge, and Edna is right beside him with her own sponge, both grinning from ear to ear in their matching cream sweaters. Down below, the real action is happening. Duchess has risen onto her hind legs, front paws reaching for the hose as water sprays up in a sparkling arc, her long fur flaring out and her eyes narrowed in fierce focus. The garage door is open behind them, plants line the driveway, and suds drip down the silver car.

Contrary to their reputation, some cats are fascinated by moving water, and a few even enjoy playing with it. Most, however, dislike getting soaked, so it is best to let a cat choose how close to get and never spray her directly. For a long-haired Persian, getting wet means a long drying time and a high risk of tangles, so a gentle towel-off and a thorough brushing are important afterward. Keep car-washing soaps and chemicals away from your cat, and do not let her drink from sudsy puddles. Supervise any outdoor time closely, since a startled cat in an open driveway can quickly bolt.

The car will be shiny by the end of the afternoon, and Duchess may be a little damp. Edna and Frank will just add one more item to the list: one fluffy white cat, to be dried and brushed.

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