Your Cat Doesn’t Actually Hate Water: 5 Reasons Why It Acts That Way

As children, we were all told that cats hate water. Our parents have seen cats run away from water like it's toxic gas, or we grew up watching Tom & Jerry where Tom loses his mind around sprinkling water. But then we grew up and saw many videos of cats getting into the bath by themselves. So do cats hate water or not? Actually, they don’t.

5 Reasons Your Cat Avoids Water

Many people think cats hate water, but that’s not really true. Cats just feel uncomfortable with water. There could be many reasons, but these 5 are the most common:

Their Wild Ancestors Didn’t Need It

Long ago, cats lived in dry places where there weren’t many rivers or lakes. They didn’t have to swim to survive, so they never got used to water. Today’s cats still have that instinct, even if they live in a home.

Wet Fur Feels Heavy and Cold

A cat’s fur soaks up water like a sponge. This makes them feel heavy and uncomfortable. It also takes a long time to dry, and being wet can make them feel cold.

They Feel Less Safe

Cats are quick and agile so they can escape danger quickly. But when their fur is wet, they move slower and can’t react as fast. 

This makes them feel unsafe, even if they’re indoors.

Their Senses Are Very Sharp

Cats have a strong sense of smell, and they can pick up tiny traces of chemicals in tap water that we don’t even notice. 

Water in their eyes and ears can also feel very uncomfortable

Bad Memories From the Past

If a cat had a scary experience with water, especially when younger, like a rough bath or getting sprayed, they might remember it and try to stay away from water in the future.

How to Help Your Cat Feel Better About Water

There are actually ways to make your cat comfortable and less-stressed around water. And it all starts from kittenhood:

Let Them Get Used to It Slowly 

If you have a kitten, let them explore water little by little. Start by letting them feel water on their paws. 

You can dampen them with your hands, a soft wet cloth, or pet-friendly wet wipes. 

Let them walk on a slightly damp towel so they get used to the sensation. Avoid rushing and give them time to adjust at their own pace.

Make It a Good Experience 

You can help your cat feel safe around water by creating positive associations. Offer treats and speak in a calm, reassuring voice when they’re near water. 

If they willingly touch or play with a bit of water, reward them. 

During baths, wet their fur gradually. Start with their paws, then move up their legs and tail. Leave their head for last, as this is often the most stressful part for them.

Keep Baths Quick and Gentle 

Cats are more comfortable when bath time is short and stress-free. Use warm water, as cold water can be uncomfortable, and hot water can be too intense for their sensitive skin. 

Be gentle when pouring water over them, and use a soft cloth or a pet-safe cup instead of a loud running tap or showerhead. 

Keep water away from their eyes and ears because this can be very distressing. 

When drying them, use a towel to absorb excess moisture first. If using a blow dryer, set it to the lowest heat and quietest setting and keep a good distance so it doesn’t scare them.

Don’t Use Too Much Water 

A deep bath can make a cat feel trapped. Instead, use just a small amount of water, only enough to wet their fur without submerging them. 

A shallow tub, sink, or even a damp cloth for a wipe-down can be less intimidating than a full bath.

Give Them a Cozy Space After 

Once bath time is over, help your cat feel warm and safe. Wrap them gently in a soft towel and let them dry in a cozy spot. 

A warm room with their favorite blanket or bed can make them feel more secure. 

Offer treats or a quiet cuddle session to reassure them that everything is okay. This helps create a more positive experience for future baths.

Final Thoughts

Your cat doesn’t actually hate water, it just feels strange and uncomfortable to them. If you understand their reasons and help them feel safe, they might not mind water as much. With patience and care, bath time can become less stressful for both you and your cat.