Cats are frequently portrayed as animals that strongly dislike water, and many of them genuinely tend to avoid getting wet.
Below is a detailed explanation of why most cats dislike water:
1. They Find It Uneasy
Cats trace back to ancestors living in arid regions, where water was not commonly available. As such, unlike certain dog breeds which developed an affinity for water due to their evolutionary background, cats did not form a close relationship with aquatic activities.
2. Damp Hair Feels Unpleasant
A cat’s coat is not made to dry swiftly. Once it becomes soaked, it grows heavy and may hold cold air close to their skin, causing them to feel both chilled and burdened. Such conditions can hinder their mobility, posing an issue for an animal that depends on nimbleness and swiftness for safety.
3. Water Can Wash Away Their Smell
Felines employ their sense of smell to demarcate their domain and interact with other creatures. If they get damp, this innate fragrance could be eliminated, potentially making them feel exposed or anxious. Given how acutely attuned these animals are to their surroundings, such an occurrence can be quite significant.
4. They Dislike Giving Up Control
Cats are wary creatures who prefer to have command over their environment. Since water tends to behave erratically—by splashing, forming ripples, or drenching them without warning—it often makes them extremely uncomfortable and sometimes scared.
5. It Might Stem from Unpleasant Events
If a cat has been forcibly washed or inadvertently plunged into water before, they might acquire an enduring aversion to it. Unpleasant encounters with water could form potent memories leading them to steer clear of it entirely.
6. Their Skin Is Delicate and So Are Their Whiskers
Cats have an extraordinary sensitivity to physical contact, particularly regarding their whiskers and skin. Being exposed to water, whether through being splashed or fully immersed, often feels overwhelming for them due to this heightened sensibility.
This heightened awareness could be why certain cats favor drinking from a flowing tap instead of a dish; they get to engage with the water as they see fit.
7. Certain cats tend to be naturally more cautious.
Each feline possesses a distinct character. Some tend to be inherently more daring and might not have an aversion to water, whereas others can be wary or jittery around new experiences.
What About Cats That Aren't Averse to Water?
You may be astonished to discover that every cat dislikes water. However, certain breeds such as the Maine Coon, Bengal, and Turkish Van are renowned for enjoying water and could even have fun swimming or playing in it.
These dog breeds possess varying temperaments and, in certain instances, distinct physical characteristics that render them better suited for being near water.
How to Help a Cat That Needs to Get Wet
If your cat requires a bath due to being exceedingly dirty or must come into contact with water for some reason, here are several methods to make the process less stressful:
- Begin at a gentle pace. If your feline friend isn't accustomed to water, slowly acclimate them by allowing them to interact with slightly wet cloths or a tiny stream of water coming from the tap.
- Utilize water that is slightly warm. Cats have delicate senses when it comes to temperature, so ensure the water is comfortable rather than steaming hot. Water that is cold could cause further discomfort for your cat.
- Remain calm and soft. Employ a calming vocal tone and tender touch to maintain your cat’s relaxation. Steer clear of getting water on them or fully immersing them.
- Thoroughly dry them out. Following a bath, softly dab your feline friend dry using a towel and ensure they stay in a cozy spot free from drafts until every strand of hair is entirely dried up.
- Consider using a damp cloth instead if your cat despises water completely.
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