Three things are certain in life: death, taxes, and cats’ hatred of water.
Why are cats so averse to water? According to the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, it might have something to do with their ancestry.1 The ancestors of house cats evolved in arid and desert climates, which means they never got used to large water bodies.
It also does not help that large bodies of water are often home to crocodilians that can make an easy meal out of a cat. There is a good chance that cats associate large water bodies with danger, making them hate water in general.
Another commonly cited theory is their fastidious nature. Cats spend most of their time waking hours grooming themselves. As such, the last thing a cat needs is a drenched coat, as it makes them extremely uncomfortable.
Nonetheless, regardless of the reason, the consensus remains that cats hate getting wet. However, not all cat breeds share that sentiment, as some cats do not mind water at all.
If you are looking to adopt a water-loving furball, you cannot go wrong with the following breeds.
The 10 Cat Breeds That Love Water
1. Turkish Van
This breed has such a high affinity for water that it was christened “the swimming cat.” As mentioned, it is believed that one of the reasons why most cats “hate” water is because their ancestors lived in desert-like conditions where water is scarce.
This would suggest that a cat’s environment affects its behavior.
There might be truth in that hypothesis because the Turkish Van is native to Turkey’s Lake Van region and does not mind getting wet. Its coat is naturally water-repellent, so it’s quite comfortable in water. Therefore, do not be surprised when this kitty joins you in the pool, bathtub, or shower.
2. Bengal
The Bengal cat is both beautiful and fearless. In addition to being the most athletic household feline, this cat is not one to be scared of water. The Bengal cat might have inherited its love for water from its Asian leopard cat lineage, animals that typically live near water sources.
Bengal kitties not only love splashing around in water, but also going for a dip.
3. Maine Coon
Maine Coons cannot afford to be afraid of water. As the holder of the “World’s Largest Domestic Cat” title, the Coon has a reputation to maintain. Fortunately, this gentle giant sports a water-resistant coat, allowing it to be comfortable in or around water.
As mentioned, a cat’s ancestry often determines its relationship with water. The Maine Coon’s ancestors used to work as pest control experts on ships, explaining why Maines do not mind getting wet.
4. Turkish Angora
Turkey’s water must be really nice, as another Turkish breed has made this list. The Turkish Angora has such a high affinity for water that it will come running to the bathroom when it hears you turn on the shower. They’ll capitalize on any opportunity that allows them to play with water.
5. American Bobtail
The American Bobtail is such a wholesome furball that it has earned itself the title of “dog of the cat world.” American Bobtails are friendly, love and demand affection, and are incredibly loyal to their family. What’s more, they will even walk on a leash.
Unlike most cat breeds, the American Bobtail loves playing with water. Some owners say that their cats will go as far as turning on the faucet to play with water.
6. Norwegian Forest Cat
It seems like giant cat breeds have a thing for water, as the second-largest domestic cat also relishes any moment spent playing with water. In fact, the Norwegian Forest Cat comes with a water-resistant coat, so it can take a dip anytime it wants to.
Nevertheless, since Norwegian Forest Cats have a keen fishing sense, you should be wary of letting them too close to your aquariums.
7. Japanese Bobtail
What is it with bobtail breeds and an affinity for water? Like its American counterpart, the Japanese Bobtail is also drawn to water. While this cat will not go as far as to join you for a bath or jump in the pool, it will not hesitate to put its paws into anything containing water.
Like American Bobtails, Japanese Bobtails also have wholesome personalities; they can walk on a leash and even play fetch.
8. Manx
The Manx is yet another short tail breed that enjoys water tremendously. This cat is native to the Isle of Man, an island in the Irish Sea, explaining why Manx cats do not seem to mind water. This cutie is intelligent, social, and has dog-like tendencies.
9. Abyssinian
Are you looking for a high-energy kitty with a high affinity for water? Look no further than the Abyssinian. Thought to be one of the oldest cat breeds in the world, the Abyssinian is an extraordinarily clever and inquisitive animal that is constantly in motion—chasing, climbing, jumping, swatting, you name it.
As such, even though Abyssinians are loyal and affectionate, their high-energy nature does not allow them to be good lap cats. One of their favorite activities is playing with water.
10. Snowshoe
This gorgeous, bright-eyed cat is native to the United States, getting its name from the cute white “boots” it sports on its feet. The Snowshoe is drawn to water, willingly jumping into large bodies of water for a swim.
They are also fans of running water. Therefore, do not be surprised when this feline learns how to turn on the faucet for amusement.
Conclusion
Contrary to popular belief, not all cats hate water. The breeds on this list are proof of that. Nevertheless, cats have unique personalities, meaning an individual will not always be drawn to water simply because it comes from a water-loving breed.
Featured Image Credit: Nils Jacobi, Shutterstock
