Why Do Some Cats Hate Water?
Nils Jacobi/iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
If you’ve ever tried to give your cat a bath, you know that it typically doesn’t go well. After some failed attempts, and maybe more than a few scratches, you may be wondering, “Why do cats hate water?”
The truth is, not all cats hate water, even though it may appear that way.
A cat’s hatred—or perhaps more accurately, their fear—of water is more likely a result of past experiences.
This article will provide several answers to the question “Why do cats hate water?”, as well as some more frequently asked questions about cats’ complicated relationship with water.
Key Takeaways
- Not all cats dislike water.
- One of the primary reasons a cat may hate water is trauma from a negative past experience.
- Cat fur absorbs water, making the fur feel heavy and uncomfortable.
Do Cats Actually Hate Water?
Cats don’t necessarily hate water.
In other words, they don’t have an intrinsic feeling of hatred or fear of water itself.
Cats are also individual creatures—some hate water and some don’t. If your cat falls into the former category, there may be several reasons for the water aversion.
7 Reasons Why Some Cats Hate Water
So, why do some cats hate water? Let’s look at a few common reasons.
1. A Bad Past Experience
One of the primary reasons a cat may hate water is trauma from a negative past experience.
“If your cat accidentally fell into the bathtub, for example, he may have bad memories related to water and try to avoid it going forward,” says Brittany Klesznyski, DVM.
If you have a young cat, it can be helpful to introduce them to water in a positive way, as early as possible. This allows them to develop positive associations and increases the likelihood that your cat won’t hate water.
If that doesn't work you can always consider a "bathless bath."
2. Being Forced Into It
Being forced into water is likely very scary for many cats because they have no control over the situation, according to Sandra Mitchell, DVM, DABVP, a veterinarian and the owner of All Creatures Veterinary Services in Eddington, Maine.
Unfortunately, a cat’s exposure to water is often forced.
For example, your cat may get into something they shouldn’t, and despite their protests, you have to give them a bath to clean them off.
If they don’t like the experience, stress hormone cortisol levels can increase, especially if a spray nozzle is used.
If this stress response is prolonged, it can lead to chronic fear and anxiety that’s triggered repeatedly in the presence or sound of water.
3. General Discomfort
According to Dr. Kleszynski, cat fur absorbs water, making the fur feel heavy and uncomfortable.
Wet cat fur can also take a long time to dry because it’s so absorptive, and cats generally don’t like to stay wet.
Wet fur can also weigh a cat down, making them less nimble and making it harder to escape from predators. Wet fur can also lower your cat’s body temperature, making them colder and prone to hypothermia.
While this might not be a real issue for indoor-only cats, instinctively they may still not like it.
4. Temperature
It might not be the water itself, but rather the water’s temperature that your cat doesn’t like.
Some cats may not like cold water but tolerate warm water.
Think about the difference between getting into a warm bath or dipping into a cold plunge.
The latter is jarring and can be a shock for your feline friend.
5. Smell
Cats have a strong sense of smell, and any changes in scent can throw them off.
Many cats don’t like the smell of water, not to mention the soaps and shampoos that are involved if you’re trying to give them a bath. You may want to refrain from using heavily scented bath products.
This is also why some cats prefer plastic to steel water bowls, according to Dr. Kleszynski.
6. Sound
Some cats are unaccustomed to the sounds of filling a bathtub or running water and it may scare them.
It’s best to use pre-filled containers or a bathtub prior to giving your cat a bath.
7. They Don’t Like New Experiences
Cats are creatures of habit.
They like a predictable routine and, if you disrupt that routine, chaos can ensue. If a bath is a new experience, chances are they might not like it, especially if you don’t proceed with caution.
If you do need to give your cat a bath, go slowly and give them a chance to get used to it. Drip a little water on their fur and paws.
If they respond positively, try putting them in a shallow bath of warm water.
Never force a cat into water, though. This will only compound their fear and add stress to the situation.
Why Do Some Cats Hate Water? FAQs
Is it bad for cats to go into water?
It’s not bad for cats to go into water. Dr. Kleszynski says cats know how to swim, so water isn’t dangerous or harmful, it’s just that many cats prefer not to be in water.
Just make sure the water isn’t too deep—your cat should be able to stand in it—and they can easily get out on their own.
Is it true that cats don’t like still water?
This isn’t true for all cats. Some cats like swimming or splashing in their water bowl, while others may only like a running faucet.
Why do cats hate water, but dogs like it?
Cat and dogs are built differently and have different preferences. Dog’s fur wicks water away, while cat fur absorbs it, according to Dr. Kleszynski.
Additionally, dogs view water as a fun play activity or a sport, while most cats don’t naturally seek out water.
