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An older man with a white mustache in a damp fishing vest wraps a silver tabby cat in a plaid blanket by a rainy doorstep. 2 / 35

The Rain Caught Grandpa Hank and Pewter Halfway Home. Then Came the Blanket.

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The rain caught them halfway home, and now everyone is a little damp. Grandpa Hank crouches by the wet back step in his olive fishing vest, raindrops still beaded on his shoulders, wrapping a soft plaid blanket snugly around Pewter. Only the silver tabby's face peeks out, whiskers slightly bedraggled, ears flattened just a bit in mild protest. Hank gazes down at him with gentle concern, his thick white mustache drooping in sympathy. Muddy boots, a blue shopping bag, and a potted fern wait by the door, and the porch boards glisten with puddles.

Most cats are not fans of getting wet. A cat's coat is not built to shed water quickly, so a soaked cat can lose body heat fast, especially if it is cold or windy. After a rainy outing, gently towel your cat dry, paying attention to the belly, legs, and paws, and give them a warm, draft-free spot to finish drying and groom themselves. Wrapping a cat loosely in a towel or blanket, sometimes called a kitty burrito, can also help nervous cats feel secure during handling. Avoid using a hair dryer on a hot setting, since cats can be startled by the noise and their skin can burn easily. If your cat is shivering for a long time, seems lethargic, or was out in very cold weather, call your vet for advice.

Pewter may look offended for now, but a dry blanket and a warm kitchen will soon restore his dignity, and maybe earn Hank a forgiving head-butt.

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