Why, Oh Why, do Cats Hate Water?
You know that moment when you and your cat are really gelling together? In that single instant, you might be reading, snuggling, playing, or simply hanging out in the same general space at the same time; it’s like you’re almost the same as the other. It’s not uncommon for cat lovers to sometimes feel…feline-ish. It’s only fair to assume that cats might also feel a bit human from time to time, right?
All this could be universally accepted except for one thing: cats hate water. While people shower in it, wash their hands, and swim through it on a regular basis, cats look on in abject disgust. But why?
Add to the List
The list of things cats dislike is quite long – and grows every day. According to the internet, cats prove they (quite rightfully) detest cucumbers, bananas, screen doors, toasters, printers, and so on. Cats definitely have a reputation for being a tad finicky, but there must be a good reason for the feline agua angst.
It’s Scientific
Basically, your cat’s proclivity for utter dryness stems from their relationship to wild desert cats. Having evolved in a dry, arid region, ancestors of today’s domestic cats didn’t have to develop swimming skills. There are, however, large cats (like tigers and jaguars) that are famous for swimming and hunting underwater. Go figure!
Must. Stay. Dry.
Speaking of survival skills, cats are always on the lookout for impending peril. When wet, weighed down, and bedraggled, cats have terrible odds for escape. Plus, when their coats are soaking wet, it’s very difficult for them to maintain their characteristically high body temperature.
Lastly, consider how much time your cat grooms themselves in a single day. Imagine having all that work literally go down the drain! Also, the pheromones that are so effective in marking, tracking, and mating can become diluted or completely erased when cats get wet.
Feline Psych 101
There are accounts of cats who live on or near bodies of water that are truly “one” with the wet element, but generally speaking, cats hate water because of a negative experience with it. Likewise, some cats have no previous history with it, leading to a lack of understanding or fondness.
If your cat had soothing or satisfying experiences with water stemming from kittenhood, chances are they enjoy it and seek it out. Lucky you, that will make getting your cat to take a bath an absolute pleasure for both of you.
Do Cats Hate Water Forever?
Cats can certainly adapt to new patterns if it’s done in such a way that creates a lasting, positive memory. Many cats don’t require regular bathing (as their self-grooming is meticulous), but over time, aging, ailing, or obese felines struggle to keep up with this important habit of wellness.
If you need grooming services, your friends at Cat Care of Vinings are always here for you.
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Where do I begin? There are so many positives about Cat Care of Vinings…this entire practice is on a whole other level… The environment is relaxing and the staff are comforting and supportive.
Dr. Michael Friedlander is experienced, capable, kind, and caring with my cat and with me. Her staff is also excellent. Besides the excellent care for my cat, Michael also educated me on what I need to do to take care of my cat, such as vaccinations and heart worm prevention. This is a top notch feline veterinary hospital with a top notch staff!
This veterinary clinic changed my cat's entire life…[he had] severe dental problems… I was reluctant to…do the procedures… I cannot stress how happy I am… Everyone treats the cats with love and care, and they treat the people with respect and offer great advice.
I have had cats my whole life and have used many veterinarians over the years. Cat Care of Vinings provides the best care I have ever received for my 'kids' - cats
Knowledgeable, caring vets and a very supportive team. Highly recommended based on my personal experiences…
The veterinarians and staff here are very professional, caring and thorough (they check for things other vet clinics don’t). They genuinely love their clients (i.e. cats)…
I was shocked at how little we knew even after more than a decade of cat ownership and regular vet visits. I really can't say enough about how thrilled we are with Dr. Palmer and Cat Care of Vinings. We just feel so fortunate to have you in our lives and are most grateful. Thank you all for all that you do! :-)
Cat Care is exactly what it says. The whole office is geared toward all felines… There are cat trees, and cat friendly furniture throughout. But is what is more important is the feline expertise…
At Cat Care of Vinings, every person…demonstrated care. Everything was well explained… I received phone calls updating me on his progress and asking how he was after I took him home. They are compassionate and knowledgeable about cats and that is what really matters.
These people love your pet almost as much as you do… This seems less like a business and more like a labor of love. [They]…always keep you in the loop of what is happening…and put both you and your pet at ease…providing first rate care for you cat.
CCV is a warm, quiet environment that helps my nervous cat feel more comfortable… The vet techs and office staff are skilled, helpful and friendly. A+
The staff are always welcoming and hospitable. Doctors will go out of their way to make sure your cat is taken care of and comfortable. They always return your calls and even call to check up on your cat after an appointment.
…We must say that Dr. Jennifer Palmer…is the BEST. Her medical experience, bedside manner, candor, and quest for knowledge…is immeasurable. She goes beyond the call of duty to ‘reach-out’ for answers and health options you may not be aware of.