Cats' Love for Water: Why Some Felines Are Aquatic Fans

Why do cats detest water so much?

The primary reason cats are not fond of getting wet has to do with the living conditions of their ancestors and the climates they were accustomed to. Domestic cats are direct descendants of African wildcats. These wildcats typically inhabit drier environments, where large bodies of water are scarce. In these arid habitats, swimming is not a survival skill they need to develop. If your kitten is averse to water, it might be carrying the genes of its African wildcat ancestors.

So, why do cats dislike water? The truth is, they're not scared of it; they simply don't like it.

Moreover, not all cat breeds share the same aversion to water.

For instance, large feline species like tigers, lions, and cheetahs don't mind dipping into a pond occasionally to cool off. They live in hot climates, and this is how they maintain their freshness.

On the other hand, the direct ancestors of domestic cats, the Near Eastern wildcat, lived in dry lands with little water. As a result, they didn't need to learn to swim for survival. This characteristic has been passed down through generations to modern feline species.

Another reason most cats dislike water is that it affects their fur. This is a crucial survival strategy, as they need speed and agility to avoid potential dangers.

Lastly, many felines are simply not aware of the sensation of water, so they steer clear of it altogether.