It’s In Their Genetics
Our domesticated feline friends can trace their genetic history to ancient times. Compared to dogs, modern cats are one of the most recently evolved species within the Felidae family. Our household kitty’s ancestors were wild cats that thrived in dry habitats, like savannas. They weren’t the type of animal that would find it relaxing to bathe in a cool pond or water hole, because open water areas were often riddled with dangers . This might be why our cats prefer to bask in the sun, nap in cozy places, and avoid deep and cold water.
How To Wash A Cat Without Water
Cats can keep themselves clean, so you really only need to give your cat a bath if she gets extremely dirty or gets something potentially toxic on her fur. You may also need to help your cat groom herself if shes old or sick and isnt able to do it herself.
You only really need to bathe your cat if they get into something that they shouldnt ingest, like oil or chemicals, or something you really dont want tracked through the house, like a litter box mishap, Buis said.
If you need to clean your cat, there are some ways to do it without water to avoid the hassle of trying to get your cat in the bathtub.
There are dry shampoos and cleansing cloths available that can help, Buis said.
And keep in mind that if you do need to wash your cat, you shouldnt use any products that are heavily scented.
A cats scent is very important to them, Buis said. Washing it away or adding new scents, like those from shampoo, can be stressful.
Are There Any Cats That Like Water
While most cats would be content to never set paw in water for as long as they live, there are a few breeds who cant get enough of the cold wet stuff. Adventurous breeds like the Bengal, American Bobtail, Manx, Maine Coon, and Turkish Van and those with thick water-resistant coats that have been designed to keep them warm in cold climates, like the Norwegian Forest Cat, will happily paddle about.
In fact, the Turkish Van loves water so much that its earned itself the nickname the swimming cat thanks to its eagerness to completely submerge itself in water whenever it gets the chance. And the Bengal has been known to happily jump in the tub with some of the best cat toys and splash and play for hours.
Not all cats who love water have moisture-deflecting coats but many do, which is why water is more appealing to them. They can get themselves fully wet and dry off quickly like a dog can, without their fur absorbing and retaining water.
As for why some cats like watching water but wont go near a bath, animal behaviorist Kelley Bollen says its not the water itself that interests them but the movements it makes. That flickering pattern, the light coming off the water, is hard-wired into their brain as a potential sign of prey. Its not because its wet. Its because it moves and makes interesting noises. Something moving is a potential thing to eat.
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Can I Give My Cat A Bath
Since the majority of kittens dont have water-resistant fur or a composed attitude to all things wet like the cat breeds above, you might be wondering what to do when your cat gets in a mess that they cant clean all by themselves.
Under special circumstances you can actually give your cat a bath. It can be tricky, but a good starting point is to get the essentials right. Make sure you have ready a non-slip floor mat, specialist shampoo, towels and a brush.
Water Makes A Cats Coat Feel Icky
A curious cat that falls into your bubble bath or is caught outside in the rain may avoid water for the rest of its life. Why do cats hate water once theyve experienced it? We could write it off as one of those unexplainable cat facts, but Dr. Cohen has a theory.
When a cat becomes wet, their hair/coat is heavier, colder, and uncomfortable. It can also take a long time for a cats hair to dry on its own, she says. Another aspect of discomfort is that cats are quick and nimble creatures, light on their feet and adept at jumping and balancing. In water, they may feel a loss of control as it slows them down.
Just one negative experience can turn your cat off water for good.
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If Not Water Then What
Cats have made it pretty clear that they dont need water to remain clean. In that case, how do cats keep themselves tidy? Well, the answer is their tongue. Cats spend hours licking and grooming themselves. This is not out of boredom, but is instead how they maintain their coat. A cats tongue is like a miniature hairbrush. It has sharp spiky structures called papillae that help to comb and get rid of the dirt. Also, the saliva transferred while licking helps with their body scent.
Close up of a cats tongue with papillae
Even though most cat breeds are hydrophobic, there are some exceptions to this. Some breeds of cats love being in the water, a phenomenon linked to their evolution and body structure. Breeds like Turkish Van, Abyssinian, and some hybrid or trained breeds have no problem with water or taking a swim.
Bengal cats, a hybrid breed, loves to hunt on lakes
Are There Some Cats Who Like Water
Every cat is different, so your cat might love playing in the water, but there are some types of cats who generally like water more than others.
Certain breeds, like Maine coon, Bengal and Norwegian forest cats seem to really enjoy water, Buis said.
This may be because certain breeds have more water-resistant coats, but in general, it comes down to the individual cats personality and past experience with water. If your cat spent most of her kittenhood safely playing in water, for example, theres a good chance shell enjoy it as an adult.
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Right Down To A Cellular Level
Touch also plays a significant role in cats lives.
Their bodies are blanketed by pain and pressure sensory cells that are highly sensitive to even the slightest touch. Pressure on any hair is relayed to sensory cells down in the hair follicle, then sent directly to the brain.
When caressed, the sensual cat feels pleasure from the touch, making this sense an important key to the relationship between cats and their people.
It Messes Up Their Fur
Cats provide excellent examples of self-care rituals, including their ability to take quick snoozes whenever they want and enjoy long, luxurious grooming sessions. Grooming is critical to a cat’s mental and physical well-being. Not only does grooming rid a kitty of mats and keep their coats shiny, it also provides a chance for them to check themselves for fleas, ticks, or other nasty parasites or skin conditions and helps them to regulate their body temperature. Getting wet, especially when it comes as a surprise, messes up all the work accomplished from a recent grooming session and might make your cat feel unkept and physically uncomfortable.
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Because Theyre Trying To Calm Themselves Down
Some scientists believe purring is also a function meant to heal or be social in cats. Purring can trigger the release of a chemical in the brain to relieve pain. This theory makes sense, considering some cats purr while in labor.
Cats also purr when eating, sleeping or when in pain, and the volume, pitch and frequency can vary.
Purring can be a cats way of trying to comfort themselves during times of stress, such as having to go to the vet.
Why Do Cats Always Sit On Paper
Cats are like young kids sounds and textures attract them, and curiosity gets the best of them.
Specifically, they like kneading crunchy, crackly paper with their claws before curling up to get some sleep, but cats also enjoy just sitting down on paper. So why is that?
Here are a few possible reasons:
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Cats And Water: A Tepid Relationship
Many cats have an aversion to water, but the exact reasons why continue to elude experts.
The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association theorizes, “One reason for the aversion may have something to do with the fact that the feline species evolved in arid desert climates. Throughout their early history, cats were not exposed to rivers, lakes and rain and as a result were not as familiar with water as some other evolving species.” Unlike dogs, who love to frolic in the water and in some instances are even trained to work in it, most kitties aren’t fans of getting wet.
A second often-cited reason is related to your furry friend’s preference for a meticulous coat. If you’ve ever been stuck in the rain without an umbrella, you well know that wet hair is notoriously difficult to manage, and that doesn’t sit well with cats. A drenched coat weighs down your kitty, making her uncomfortable, and it can take a long time for the coat to dry. Cats, ever-diligent with their personal hygiene routine, spend about a third of their waking hours grooming, notes the CVMA. A sopping-wet coat makes their job very difficult.
Some Cats Do Like Water
Although in the main, most cats do not like water, some breeds of cats quite like it!
- The Turkish Van is known as the Swimming Cat. This is a large, elegant white cat with auburn head and tail markings, which is naturally fond of water and takes his name from Lake Van in southeastern Turkey.
- Cousin to the Turkish Van, the Turkish Angora is also an excellent swimmer.
- If you have a Bengal in your home, you will know that this breed is highly active, intelligent, and good at learning tricks and will often join you in the shower!
- Maine Coons have heavy, water-resistant coats that lend themselves to playing in water.
- A common domesticated cat breed, the Abyssinian looks like a small cougar and enjoys water.
- The Norwegian Forest Cat has a water-resistant overcoat and dense undercoat and survives even harsh conditions in cold Scandinavia.
What does your kitty prefer? Are they a water lover – or do they always stay away when they know its wet?
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Can Cats Share Water Bowls
Cats can share water bowls, but it will depend on their personalities. Some will have no issue sharing, especially if they were raised with the other cat. Others may be highly defensive of their food and water, especially if theyre former strays or rescues. You will have to discover this through trial and error.
If your cats appear to share without a problem, then let them continue. If there is conflict, then do not force the matter. Cats forced to share food, water, or other resources will fight more often or bully any new cats away from their territory. They may also drink too quickly in an attempt to get their fill. This can result in stomach aches and other digestive issues later on.
In that event, get each of your cats their own special water bowls or fountains. Be sure to place each in their own special spot, reserved just for that cat.
All in all, a cats water bowl should be placed away from its food dish. This ensures your cat feels calm, safe from illness, and protected from rivals. By trying different materials, separating the two bowls, and even providing several bowls, your cat should warm up to the set-up.
H2o No Why Do Cats Hate Water
Most cats are averse to water. Its kind of a thing with them, and avoiding baths is something most kitties will do at all costs. Cats and their opposition to water is the thing of memes and comedies. Cats, after a bath or falling into water, dont exactly look their happiest. But what is it about the splashy stuff do cats dislike? And, why do some odd cats enjoy water?
It seems like a good mystery to investigate. The team at Rocklin Ranch Veterinary Hospital is here to take on this case of why cats hate water.
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How Can I Bathe A Cat That Might Not Like Water
First things first: Never force your cat into the bathtub! Instead, try using a small amount of water poured into a bowl or in your sink and see if her interest in playing with it takes over. Then, as she plays in the water or bats at the water coming out of the faucet, you can give her a favorite treat as you slowly bathe her. If she is not going to like any amount of water, then you can instead get her coat wet by soaking a washcloth in the bowl and gently rubbing her down.
If your kitty just never seems to enjoy any part of getting wet or taking a bath you can try waterless shampoos, or make an appointment for her with an experienced cat groomer. Every cat needs to get clean, either via a bath at home or with the help of a professional cat grooming service. Considering your cat’s preferences for water go a long way in making sure your cat is healthy and happy.
Here’s The Truth About Why Cats Don’t Like To Get Wet
- University of South Carolina
Cats have developed a reputation for being rather aquaphobic, but do our feline friends really hate water? If youve ever tried to bathe a cat, you may think so, but the truth is that cats have a complicated relationship with H2O.
Many cats are fascinated by water and may enjoy dipping their paws into the bathtub or dunking their heads under the faucet for a drink. Certain breeds of domestic cat are even known to go for the occasional swim. For example, the Turkish Van has earned itself the nickname swimming cat because of its affinity for water.
However, even though cats can paddle just as well as mans best friend, your average feline likely wont have any interest in going for a swim. Why? Scientists and animal behaviorists say there a variety of reasons.
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How Do I Know If My Cat Is Dehydrated
When a cat doesn’t consume enough water, she is at risk for dehydration. “Dehydration occurs when the normal body fluids, including water and electrolytes, fall below required needs,” describes Petcha, causing problems in her energy, skin and organ function. A cat not drinking water isn’t always the cause for dehydration, but often it’s a fairly common reason or symptom of dehydration.
Why This Matters To Treehugger
At Treehugger, we are advocates of animal welfare, including our pets and other domestic animals. The better we understand our cats, the better we can support and protect their wellbeing. We hope our readers will adopt rescue pets instead of shopping from breeders or pet stores, and will also consider supporting local animal shelters.
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What Cats Like Water
Do you have a feline friend who loves to splash around in the water? Or does your cat avoid the water as theyve never seen it before? Cats come in all shapes and sizes, and they each have a unique personality and quirks.
For example, some cats like to be up high, while others prefer to hide underneath the sofa. Another way cats can be different is their love of water. If youve ever scrolled past an internet video of a cat playing with the water coming out of the sink faucet, you might be wondering which breeds of cat-like water.
In addition, some cats like watching the water running from the tap, but still, they do not like getting wet or in it.
Here are the top cat breeds that like water:
Because Theyre Leaving Their Scent
Cats sense of smell is an important tool in their day-by-day living.
They use this sense for social interaction, marking territories and communicating.
And get this: Scent glands are located on many parts of a cats body forehead, tail, cheeks, chin skin, lips and paw pads.
Scent communication is not only cats way of marking their territory it also provides them with a comforting familiarity with their surroundings. Cats often scent-mark things that are most important to them.
For example, if your cat head bunts your face, they are letting you know that they trust you completely. Scent communication is a large part of bonding and expressing emotion for cats.
Bunting spreads the cats unique odor signature upon whatever they rub. Sharing this scent quickly identifies you, other family members and objects with a familiar odor. Congratulations, youre a member of the club.
Leaving a scent mark is retained for social bonding as well as for friendly and comforting purposes.
Now lets talk about touch
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Because Laser Pointers Bring Out Cats Natural Hunting Instincts
Cats are natural hunters, so those quick-moving red dots satisfy their hunting instincts.
Unlike many toys that just lie around in the same old place for your cat to paw, you can aim a laser pointer in different directions . For your cat, this makes it seem like real moving prey. Anything that moves and has some color is certain to bring out the predator in a cat.