You just got hooked onto some trippy cat vs bathtub reels, didn’t you? Or did you try to take your cat for a bath for the first time? Do you realize now that convincing teenagers to clean their rooms is easier? Despite their graceful agility and mysterious charm, most cats react to water like it's some sort of feline kryptonite. You may think this is weird because other members of the cat family, like the tiger, commonly take a dip to cool off or hunt prey.
There has to be some explanation for it right?
Don’t worry there isn’t just one. Here are 10 reasons why cats hate water – (1)(2)(3)
One theory is that cats evolved in dry climates. They had limited access to rivers, lakes or any other water body. The only water they were familiar with was the one they drank. This is probably why, even modern-day cats have got the fear of the unknown, in this case, water, from their ancestors.
Have you seen a cat climb up a wall as if there are some imaginary stairs? Now this agility is what they pride themselves on. Getting soaked in water makes their coat heavy and takes away their ability to effortlessly navigate life like a spring. Unfortunately, cats do not have waterproof coats like dogs.
Another thing cats are good at is smelling stuff. Cats can smell the chemicals in the water that our basic human noses probably can’t (and you thought only your Doberman could do that). Some cats may be okay with dipping their paws in it but having their entire body submerged in it may not be the best idea. They can imagine what their body will smell like after and try to avoid it as much as they can.
Everybody knows that cats have an OCD about grooming. Imagine you spend more than half your day cleaning your house. Then someone comes inside with wet and dirty feet. How badly would you want to kill that person? Well, your cat may not kill you but will definitely be mad at you for soaking her wet and then leaving her out to dry for hours.
Another probable reason is negative experiences from the past. This is something we are all familiar with - A burnt child dreads the fire. If the cat has had a bad experience with water like falling in a bathtub or a puddle as a kitten, the fear remains ingrained. This is probably why as an adult, the cat avoids getting soaked in water.
Their super-senses can be another reason for them to dislike water. Cats have an acute sensory perception. This includes touch, temperature and other environmental stimuli. For them, the feeling of water on their skin and the loud noise it makes can be overwhelming and uncomfortable. Hence, the dislike.
Just like some humans who are afraid of swimming in unknown waters, cats can have aquaphobia as well. The unpredictable nature of water, its depth and movement can confuse cats and startle a reflex in them.
You must have seen that some cats love to play with the dripping water from a tap but take them near a bathtub and you’ll probably hear the loudest ‘meow’. This is because they can control their interaction and immersion level with the water. Sitting in a bathtub with water running down their face and in their eyes makes them feel out of control and hence erratic.
Cats like warmth and consistency. Water, especially when it's unexpected, can be cold. This makes them feel vulnerable and they hate it.
The last probable reason, which even you would have thought to be true, can actually be true – cats just being cats. We all know that cats can be super dramatic. A little water might not be the end of the world, but to a cat, it’s the perfect opportunity to show off their acting skills.
Is Water Dangerous for Cats?
Now that you know that your cat is probably not going to like you pouring some water on them unless you want to put your bond in danger. Apart from that, cats are great at keeping themselves clean. Bathing them frequently can strip oils and healthy bacteria from their coat. This can cause dry skin and irritation for them.
Many cats also find water activities to be stressful causing anxiety in them. This can lead to behavioral issues in some cases. So, take your cat along with you in the shower only when the dirt on them is so much that they possibly can’t clean themselves.
Having said that, some breeds absolutely love water. The Maine Coon, Turkish van and the Abyssinian are breeds that may actually make it difficult for you to get them out of the bathtub.
What to Do If Your Cat Gets Wet?
Dry them up. Duh! Use a towel or a blow dryer to dry them up. Use a blanket later to cover them up and make them feel warm and cozy. Take them near a warm spot, like near a heater, and let them rest there.
Once your cat is dry enough, you can again throw them in the bathtub.
Just kidding. Don’t do that.
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Vaughan, D. (n.d.). Why do cats hate water? Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/story/why-do-cats-hate-water
Exploring the curious reasons Why do cats hate water? (n.d.). Supertails. https://supertails.com/blogs/posts/exploring-the-curious-reasons-why-do-cats-hate-water?srsltid=AfmBOoqx73SxjftX_H-EvRwE9axezOWM7jzFmvmTbUxAqBGHaCIe_eRg
