94 WASHING. 



easy to separate the tangle with the fingers by gently pulling 

 out from the mass a few hairs at a time, after which wash 

 thoroughly, and use a soft, long-haired brush ; but this must 

 be done with discretion, so as not to spoil the natural wavi- 

 ness of the hair, or to make it lie in breadths instead of the 

 natural, easy, carelessly-parted flaky appearance, which shows 

 the white or blue cat off to such advantage. 



WASHING. 



Most cats have a dislike to water, and as a rule, and under 

 ordinary conditions, generally keep themselves clean, more 

 especially the short-haired breeds ; but, as is well known, the 

 Angora, Persian, and Russian, if not taken care of, are sure to 

 require washing, the more so to prepare them for exhibition^ 

 as there is much gain in the condition in which a cat comes 

 before the judge. 



There are many cases of cats taking to the water and 

 swimming to certain points to catch fish, or for other food, 

 on record ; yet it is seldom that they take a pleasure in play- 

 ing about in it. I therefore think it well to mention that I 

 had a half-bred black and white Russian, that would 

 frequently jump into the bath while it was being filled, and 

 sit there until the water rose too high for its safety. Thus 

 cats may be taught to like washing. 



If a cat is to be washed, treat it as kindly and gently as 

 is possible, speaking in a soothing tone, and in no way be 

 hasty or sudden in your movements, so as to raise distrust 

 or fear. Let the water be warm but not hot, put the cat in 

 slowly, and when its feet rest on the bottom of the tub, you 

 may commence the washing. 



Mr. A. A. Clarke, the well-known cat fancier, says : " I 

 seldom wash my cats, I rather prefer giving them a good 

 clean straw-bed, and attending to their general health and 

 condition, and they will then very seldom require washing. 

 I find that much washing makes the coat harsh and poor, 

 and I also know from experience that it is * a work of art ' 



