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An elderly man washes a car with a sponge while a silver Maine Coon plays in the spraying water from the hose. 3 / 36

Grandpa Washed the Car in the Driveway. The Cat Met the Hose

AI imagemaine cooncar washgarden hose

Water arcs across the driveway in a bright, sparkling jet, and Harold stands beside his old silver car with a sponge in his hand and a pleased smile. Smoky is crouched on the wet concrete with one paw swiping at the spray, her long striped fur dotted with droplets and her tail a drenched plume. The car is covered in soapy streaks, and the garage door behind them is neat and pale. Everyone is in a good mood and thoroughly damp.

Cats are usually thought of as water-averse, but some breeds, including Maine Coons, are known for a fascination with it. Their thick, water-resistant coats and playful personalities may explain why many of them will bat at faucets or paw at a gentle stream. If your cat enjoys water play, keep an eye out for soap and car chemicals, since many of them are toxic if licked, and rinse any residue off her paws and fur. Keep her away from wet pavement that may be slippery and from anywhere near a running car, because cats like to seek out warm spots near engines. A towel dry afterward helps her stay warm, and a long-haired cat benefits from a thorough brushing. Check with your vet if your cat seems to dislike the water.

By the end of the wash, the car will be shiny and the cat will be soaked. Harold is clearly fine with that trade.

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