My Cat Got Shaved for Christmas (w/photo)

Today, I took my (formerly) long-haired tortoise-shell cat, named Bailey, to the groomer. She is at least 13 years old, and this summer she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer (very common in older cats). She was eating like a maniac but kept losing weight. So, she spent a week in the hospital undergoing radiation treatment and is now fully recovered. However, this ordeal combined with her age severely limited her self-grooming tendencies. As a result, her fur got terribly matted and she basically had kitty dreadlocks. No amount of brushing could get them out. My only option was to take her to the groomer for what they call a "lion cut." Basically, they completely shave her body, and leave her head, bottoms of her paws, and tip of her tail. Here is the before and after photos:

Before:

After:

Another After:

She looks pretty ridiculous, I agree, but also cute in all of her bald glory and she is very sweet.

So, if you are ever on our Downers Grove Campus and walking from the Administration Building to The Commons, you will see a bench with a plaque dedicating it "To My Beloved Cats, Bailey and Kahlua." And now you'll know who Bailey is.