I have two cats, they love the backyard (fenced in) and they are out only under supervision. What I have found a couple of things about the great outdoors for cats:

They will roam far and wide if given the chance
Some cats just do not like to walk on grass after years of trodding on carpet or hard floors
They will get fleas, regardless of what you do
They will get skin rashes, depending on the season - but it can be treated easily with certain shampoos
Giving a cat a bath outside is much much easier and less painful than doing it in an enclosed bath tub or shower
If they bite you, seek medical attention
Giving the cats baths is not necessary unless they are flea ridden, have a skin condition, rolled on a dead possum, or got sprayed by a skunk. Outdoors baths will lower their desire to go outside.

Do not declaw your cats, leaves them defenseless, and if you are too protective about the condition of your furniture then cats are not for you, or you should invest on leather furniture.