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A man in a yellow cardigan brushes a gray cat on a back step with garden tools behind them. 20 / 31

Grandpa Brushed Pebble's Plush Coat on the Back Steps

AI imageexotic shorthairgroomingback steps

Grandpa runs a small brush along Pebble's back with a gentle, practiced hand, his eyes warm behind round glasses. Pebble sits upright and still on the back steps, her round gray face wearing a calm, slightly regal expression. A blue watering can, a wicker basket, and a pair of gardening gloves sit on the steps behind them.

His mustard-yellow cardigan glows in the soft light, and a few loose gray hairs drift from the brush. Pebble looks completely at ease, her golden eyes half lidded.

Regular brushing is especially helpful for a cat with a thick, plush coat like the Exotic Shorthair's. A few minutes several times a week removes loose fur, helps prevent mats, and cuts down on hairballs. Use a soft brush, work with the direction of the fur, and keep sessions short and pleasant. It is also a good time to check for lumps, skin irritation, or fleas, and to mention anything odd to your vet. Wiping her face gently is often useful for flat-faced breeds, whose eyes can tear a bit. A treat afterward makes grooming a happy habit.

A few more strokes and she will probably declare the session finished. Until then, both of them look perfectly content. When the brush is set down she will stretch and wander off, glossy and pleased, and Grandpa will smile and sweep the fur from his sleeve.

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