Katie's first bath

Katie had her first bath tonight and it actually went quite well...no, very well considering she's a cat. I must say I'd never given a cat a bath before so it was new to both of us.

It all started with a call to a groomer because Kate's shedding is out of control. I just can't deal with all of the cat hair. Between itchy eyes and cat-hair dust bunnies on the linoleum...something had to give. The groomer said really other than shaving her there wasn't much she could do that I couldn't do at home. The conversation went something like this...

Groomer: I can shave her but have you tried giving her a bath?
Me: You mean, like in water?
Groomer: Well, yes. You might want to trim her claws first, though.

I thought that was an excellent suggestion so I did. Then I ran a couple of inches of body temperature water in the tub, popped the top on the Pantene that I use for the dog, and gathered up some old towels. I wasn't sure if these were to mop up water or my blood off the floor but I thought either way they'd be useful.

Quickly I plunked her into the tub and started dumping water onto her back with a large cup (also used for washing the dog). She immediately started purring and I kept scrubbing. She even walked around a little like a puppy does in the grass for the first time. She did try to jump out a time or two but nothing that a little quick grab couldn't stop. She continued to purr and allowed me to really wash her and then rinse her. Not one scratch attempt!!! I couldn't believe it.

Then I lifted her out of the tub, wrapped her in a towel, and proceeded to dry her as best I could. She seemed to like that too. Finally I gave her a good brushing and set her free in the apartment. Hopefully that will help the shedding problem.