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An elderly Black man in a green cardigan bathes a wet, soapy seal point Birman in an old metal washtub in the yard. 15 / 32

Mocha Got Into Something Sticky. Otis Filled Up the Old Metal Tub.

AI imagebirmancat bathbackyard

An old galvanized tub sits in the backyard grass, filled with sudsy water, and Mocha is in it whether she likes it or not. Her usually fluffy coat is soaked and spiky, clinging to her body and making her look half her normal size. Her white-gloved front paws hang over the rim of the tub as if she is ready to climb out at any second, and her blue eyes have a look of quiet betrayal. Otis leans over with one gentle hand on her back, smiling kindly, clearly trying to make the bath as quick and calm as possible.

Most cats rarely need baths, since they are excellent self-groomers. A bath may be useful if a cat gets into something sticky or smelly, or if a vet recommends one for a skin condition. When a bath is needed, use lukewarm water and a shampoo made for cats, as human shampoos and many dog products can irritate their skin, and some dog flea products are dangerous for cats. Keep water out of the ears and eyes, rinse thoroughly, and dry your cat well with towels in a warm room afterward. A long, silky coat like the Birman's can take a while to dry fully, so keep her indoors until she is completely dry.

Mocha will forgive Otis eventually, probably right around the time her fur turns soft and fluffy again. Until then, she would like it noted that this was not her idea.

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