Between curiosity, agility, and desire for all things comfortable, it is not cats’ general practice to enjoy water. Knowing why cats hate water can also help you respect your cat’s boundaries, keep them calm during grooming, and can even answer that sublimely curious question, why do cats like fish but hate water?
In this article, we’ll take a look at why your cat might be doing this, share some tips for dealing with a water-wary feline friend, and explain the science of supreme feline skittishness.
Fundamental Origins of Cats’ Fear.
Part of the reason cats don’t like water has to do with evolution. Wild cats once lived in deserts and dry environs where staying dry was necessary for survival. If they were wet, that could also make them slower and more vulnerable. Even now, cats in our homes have these instincts. They are very skittish and shy away from anything new, especially water. As with many felines, this behavior in the wild illuminates why, even if your cat is a total princess at home, she can’t stand water.
How the Desert Molded Modern Cats
Cats were bred to survive the dry, with desert environments teaching them to stay away from water. Their instincts and bodies are made to retain heat and not take on unnecessary moisture.
The Role of Survival Instincts in Water Avoidance
Cats are instinctively wary and tend to avoid potential dangers.These aspects of cat behavior can be made through water.
Cats’ Fur and Body Makes Water Uncomfortable
A cat’s fur wasn’t made for full-on water resistance. Soaked, it is heavy and takes a considerable amount of time to dry. This may make cats feel cold and exposed. They are sensitive as well, and no one enjoys the feeling of wet fur. For this reason, cats would rather wash with their pink tongue than take baths. This is highly insightful, helping the owner respect their cat’s specific comfort levels.
Why Cats’ Hair Soaks Up Water
Cats’ fur doesn’t shed water; it soaks it up, causing an increase in weight and discomfort.
Behavioral Explanations for Why Cats Do Not Like Water
Fear and anxiety are significant factors contributing to why cats hate water. A lot of cats didn’t have an opportunity to become used to water, so they consider it an enemy. Past negative experiences, such as an unexpected splashing or being forced to take a bath, may further distress them.
Cats are intelligent and never forget such experiences, which can intensify their fear. The irony of why cats like fish but hate water is simply because they enjoy the reward of fish, whilst rejecting the uncomfortable feeling of water.
Exception: The Cats Who Really Like Water
Most cats are water-averse, but some like Turkish Van, Maine Coon, and Bengal breeds are generally more water-friendly. A cat that has been introduced to water at a young age may be more compliant.
Breeds That Love Water
Some breeds are, by nature, better adapted to water for a variety of reasons of breeding and upbringing.
Effects of Early Exposure on Water Acceptance
Cats that are regularly exposed to water when young tend to be calmer and less stressed around water.
The Best Way to Introduce Your Cat to Water
If you need to wash your cat, you can make it as unfraught an experience as possible. Begin slowly by substituting a wet washcloth for a full bath. Little by little start wetting it and treat saying good dog. Ensure that the water is lukewarm and the surrounding area is quiet. Wash your cat gently with cat shampoo and avoid grabbing it. Respect your cat’s comfort. Your cat needs to be comfortable to be safe and for you to be sane.
Conclusion
Now you know why cats hate water. It’s a mixture of instinct and evolution, and sensitivity. Even if cats grow to like water, most would prefer to be dry. Respect your cat’s space in this way and you will be rewarded by its love, and you will make it happy.
Call to Action
If you’d like to help your cat stay clean without stress, begin coaching it to enjoy the process of being groomed, and pass this article on to your friends to help them better understand their own feline buddies!
