Last updated on: September 6, 2023 by Crystal Uys
Most cats seem to be born and bred with an intense hatred and fear of getting wet. Bath time often brings sharp claws and pitiful meows from kittenhood to adulthood. Despite this, many cats like to squish running water and may jump into a wet tub after your shower to lick water droplets off the floor. Rarer still, some cats like to swim!
There are, however, a few cat breeds that not only drink from the water fountain, but are generally not afraid to dive into it. Let’s take a look and see who your new swimming buddy could be.
Top 12 Cat Breeds That Love Water
1. Turkish van
Known as the “swimming cat”, the Van Turk is a unique breed in more ways than one. They have a gorgeous white coat with orange piebald markings on their head and legs. The Turkish Van remains rare outside of its home country but is quite a treasure if you find one.
2. Turkish Angora
With pure white fur and heterochromatic eyes, the Turkish Angora is a cousin of the Turkish Van who also enjoys swimming. They have a delicate single coat that is fairly easy to care for, but few claim ownership of Turkish Angoras outside of their home country.
3. Egyptian Mau
“Mau” is literally the Egyptian word for “water,” so it’s no surprise that this playful cat loves to swim. The Egyptian Mau is a born athlete capable of running up to 30 miles per hour. Their spotted coat comes in silver or bronze colors with medium length fluffy fur.
4. Norwegian Forest Cat
A classic companion to Viking sailors, the Norwegian Forest Cat is accustomed to freezing winters on land and sea. Their plush double coat is water resistant, helping them dry out faster when they want to swim. They are one of the largest breeds of domestic cats, frequently weighing over 15 pounds.
5. Maine Coon
The Maine Coon frequented Northeast docks during the 1800s and controlled the rat population, earning them the respect (and treats) of American sailors. Today, they are one of the largest breeds of domestic cats that can be used as barn cats or kept indoors as pets. Their dense, water-repellent double coat prepares them for contact with water, and their tenacity to get the job done gives them a spunky personality that isn’t easily intimidated by a little spritz.
6. Siberian
The Siberian cat originated in the rugged Russian tundra thousands of years ago. Historians believe that this breed of cold weather cat may have been one of the first, if not the first, cat to be domesticated. Their long, flowing coats are likely to float in the water when they go out for a swim, but thanks to their water-resistant coats, it won’t take them very long to dry out once they’re done.
7. Bengal
The beautiful spotted Bengal cat emerged in the 1960s after someone crossed an Asian leopard cat with a domestic shorthair cat. The Asian leopard cat is one of the few wild cats that loves water. So it’s no surprise that this exotic-looking domestic cat also likes to swim. The Bengal has a dense, short coat with silver, brown, white or blue markings. Although their coat is not water repellent, its short length prevents them from remaining soggy for too long after getting wet.
8. Abyssinian
A cinnamon-colored coat and ticks and large, alert ears characterize the Abyssinian. This highly intelligent breed has a knack for athletics, including running, crawling, and swimming. They don’t like to sit still for a long time. Although they have a charismatic, almost canine personality that easily attaches to their owners, Abyssinians are certainly not the most cuddly. Although the breed as we know it today originated in present-day Ethiopia, historians believe the Abyssinian may have originally been bred in ancient Egypt along the Nile.
9. Manx
Originally found on the Isle of Man, the Manx could be mistaken for a domestic shorthair tabby until you take a look at its hindquarters. The Manx almost never has a tail. Their stocky body paired with their playful personality is a good combination for an athletic cat that loves to swim.
10. Savannah Cat
The Savannah cat is a relatively new breed with several generations. Each successive generation strays further from its wild origins, but the first savannah cat was a cross between the exotic African Serval and a domestic feline. Since they are part feral cats, Savannah Cats tend to be very athletic. They require lots of attention and exercise so they don’t run away or become destructive. You may want to consider installing a swimming pool in your backyard so this energetic cat can swim a few laps.
11. American Bobtail
The American Bobtail often resembles the domestic shorthair without a tail. These gentle cats tend to be quite large with playful personalities. Unlike most cat breeds, the American Bobtail can have a long or short coat depending on the variation.
12. Japanese Bobtail
Like the American Bobtail, the Japanese Bobtail can have a long or short coat with a sparse undercoat. These medium-sized felines come in a variety of colors and patterns. The Japanese Bobtail naturally originated in ancient Japan, where it was first bred as a barn cat, but was promoted to imperial pet status. Today they have not forgotten their royal silks and crown themselves masters of every house they inhabit.
Why do most cats hate getting wet?
The classic aversion of the domestic cat to water is influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Ancient cat breeds that were developed in hot, arid desert conditions, such as the Persian, are less likely to interact with water than breeds raised in a cold climate or that have water-resistant coats. For example, the Norwegian Forest Cat has a reputation for braving Norwegian winters thanks to its thick, water-repellent double coat. Historically, they accompanied the Vikings on long journeys. They are not afraid of small splashes and are known to bathe.
On the contrary, recent breeds bred indoors in the United States, such as the American Shorthair, generally hate getting wet simply because they haven’t been exposed to water. Most cats also have dense fur that takes a while to dry out, which is another reason why most prefer to stay out of water. Felines that like to be in water often have a single coat that dries easily, or a water resistant double layer. There are of course some exceptions, such as the Bengal cat. This breed does not have a waterproof coat but inherits its love of water from the Asian leopard cat.
It can be argued that any cat, regardless of breed, will tolerate getting wet to some degree if they have been raised near water. For example, let’s say you’ve been handling an American Shorthair since birth. You have gave him frequent baths, held her daily and she feels very comfortable with you. It is very likely that she will at least allow you to give her a bath without a fight. Even so, she may not go into it on purpose, although that depends on her personality.
And drinking water?
Many cats are at least curious about water, but few like to be wet. Their natural instinct tells them to drink from moving water sources, such as fountains, rather than stagnant bowls where the water may not be the freshest. Thanks to their keen sense of smell, some cats are also repelled by tap water if it has been purified with strong chemicals. A pet fountain with a water filter can be a solid investment in your cat’s health and happiness (and keep her from turning on the sink and increasing your water bill).
Conclusion
While most cats only want take a few new turns on the tap, some breeds actively seek water so they can swim a few laps. Breeds originating from cold or wet climates, such as the Siberian, are more likely to enjoy swimming than breeds developed in a dry or sheltered environment. However, with patience, love, and persistent training, most cats can at least learn to tolerate a bath when needed, even if they will never join you in the pool.
Featured Image Credit: Amerigo_images, Shutterstock
About the Author
Ivy’s mom cat – a feisty little rescue kitten who is her one and only child. For the moment! Throughout her life, she was introduced to the special love found in bonding with a cat. Having owned several felines, she is more than certain that their love is unmatched, unconditional and unlike any other. Passionate about educating the public about all there is to know about felines, their behavior and their unique personalities, Crystal is dedicated to ensuring that all cats and their owners know the importance of mindful living. – and to love!