Washing cats, probably (if you've got a good working relationship with aforementioned moggies, it is just possible to cajole them into going where you want them to: that said, I've not tried to wash a cat).
Washing cats. I say this because you use the plural.
Unless, of course, you a. throw them into a pool and call that washed, or b. outsource the washing job to the cat. In which case herding them becomes harder.
Or putting them in the shower, turning the water on, and then closing the door. My husband did that to one of our cats once, who turns into a hellbeast any time you do something to her she does not want.
i have tried both, and washing, even one at a time, can be rough. those claws, they act like velcro, you see. and there's nothing worse than a pissed-off, cold, wet cat that won't/can't let go of the front of your clothing.
Herding cats. With washing, you at least only have one cat to control, so it shouldn't be as hard. Also, there are always pressure washers... *evil grin*
Also, is this a one person job or can you have help?
I think the availability of tranquilizer drugs is also a point to consider: I imagine stoned kitties would be a lot easier to wash. (Though not to herd, probably.)
I had to wash mysterious goop off this one (icon) last week, while he was stoned, and it was still very difficult. He had an amazing amount of flail in him, even when so drugged out that his third eyelid was up.
Having dipped cats for ringworm as a production line process on more than one occasion, herding 14+ cats is harder. At least, if you've got the ideal bathing set-up. OTOH, if you're just talking two cats who disagree with the need and an average depth kitchen sink...yeah, I'd rather herd the masses.
Herding. I have cats that will sit patiently and be washed, even by children. But getting these guys to go anywhere together? not happening unless I tuck one under each arm.
Sorry, sorry ... I'm dealing with three be-flea'd and wormy cats right now, and the mad chases, fear, yowls, &tra? A Universe of Cat and Cat Owner Misery.
I think I would need more information to judge. I mean cats covered in tar would be harder to wash than herding a bunch of cats sleeping in a pile. But herding cats in a wide open space would be harder than washing one small cat in a contained space. And if there were no gravity and we had to herd the cats I would give up and get drunk.
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