7 Cat Breeds That Love Water

Do you think cats and water don’t mix well? While it’s true that many felines are known for their aversion to water, there are actually several cat breeds that defy this stereotype. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of cat breeds that love water.

Why Do Cats Hate Water?

Before we discover the cat breeds that adore water, let’s address the common belief that most cats despise getting wet. There are several reasons why they dislike water.

• First and foremost, it’s important to know that cats’ ancestors thrived in dry climates with limited access to rivers or oceans. Over generations, cats have not had extensive exposure to large bodies of water, which can contribute to their general reluctance towards it.
• Secondly, getting wet can be an uncomfortable experience for cats. Their fur takes a considerable amount of time to dry, and the weight of their wet coat is greater than that of their dry coat. This added weight can limit their movement and hinder their agility.
• Lastly, some cats may resist getting wet due to slippery surfaces. Loss of balance on such surfaces can create a sense of vulnerability and unease, prompting them to avoid water-related situations.

Are There Actually Cats That Like Water?

Contrary to popular belief, not all cats shy away from water. Some feline companions love water and enjoy swimming or playing in the water.

Cat Breeds That Love Water

Now, let’s explore cat breeds that defy the norm and have a genuine love for water.

Turkish Van

The Turkish Van is an ancient and rare breed with a friendly, outgoing, and affectionate nature. It originates from the region of Lake Van in Turkey and has a reputation for a cat, that loves water. These beautiful cats enjoy swimming, which is quite unique for a cat. They also are very playful kitties, that love to jump and climb.

Turkish Angora

Similar to the Turkish Van, the Turkish Angora is another water-loving breed. These elegant felines naturally occurred and have a long history, dating back to the 15th century. They are considered national treasures in their homeland of Turkey. These beautiful kitties have ballerina-like bodies, with silky, longhair coat. They are very intelligent, energetic, and friendly cats, who love to be with their humans. The Turkish Angora will never leave you bored or lonely. These beautiful cats are not afraid to dip their paws into the water, making bath time a much more enjoyable experience for both the cat and the owner.

Siberian

Originating from Russia’s frosty forests, the Siberian cat has adapted to its harsh environment. They have a semi-longhair, triple coat, which is water-resistant. This is the reason why they are fascinated with water and love to explore water sources and even play with it. These medium-sized, muscular cats are one of the national treasures of Russia. The Siberian kitties are friendly and outgoing and love to be around other pets and children.

Bengal

The Bengal stands out from other domestic cats due to its distinctive appearance. It is a hybrid breed, which is developed by breeding an Asian leopard cat with domestic cats like Abyssynian, Egyptian Mau, and American shorthair. However, it usually does not grow much larger than a house cat. Bengal cats love playing with running water, splashing it with their paws, and even joining their owners in the shower. These unique-looking cats are very intelligent, playful, and affectionate cats, who enjoy being with other pets and children. With their wild and exotic appearance, the Bengal cats have captured the hearts of many cat enthusiasts in the world.

Maine Coon

With their size, Maine coons cats are sure to catch your attention. They are one of the largest cat breeds in the world. Despite this fact, they are very gentle, friendly, and social cats. These gentle giants are very intelligent, love to learn new tricks, and enjoy the water. Their thick, water-repellent coats and tufted paws make them well-suited for water-related activities. Some Maine Coons even swim!

Norwegian Forest Cat

These cats originate from Norway’s forests and come well-equipped for life near the water. The Norwegian Forest Cat’s long, water-resistant fur helps them stay dry even in wet environments. Their playful and adventurous nature often leads them to explore water sources and engage in activities like dipping their paws in water bowls or investigating dripping faucets. Norwegian forest cats are friendly and gentle and enjoy being part of the family life.

Savannah

The Savannah is a relatively new cat breed resulting from a cross between a domestic Siamese cat and an African serval. These beautiful felines have a striking, wild appearance and a remarkable affinity for water. It’s not uncommon to find them swimming in shallow pools, and they may even join you in the shower.

Savannah cats are very active and playful cats. They exhibit behaviors reminiscent of dogs and thoroughly enjoy playing fetch. These amazing kitties also can be trained to walk on a leash, enabling them to explore the outdoors while being safely guided. However, it’s important to note that their strong hunting instincts make them unsuitable companions for small animals such as rabbits, hamsters, and guinea pigs.

In addition to their unique qualities, Savannah cats are one of the most expensive cat breeds in the world. Their distinctiveness and desirability contribute to their higher price range. On a positive note, Savannah cats have the potential to live remarkably long lives. Some individuals have been known to reach the impressive age of 20 years

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, while it is true that most cats avoid water, there are cat breeds that break the mold and genuinely enjoy being around water. The Turkish Van, Turkish Angora, Siberian, Bengal, Maine Coon, Norwegian Forest Cat, and Savannah are remarkable examples of feline companions that defy the stereotype. So, if you’re seeking a feline companion that won’t shy away from water adventures, consider these exceptional cat breeds that love water.