There is a widespread myth that all cats hate water. However, anyone who shares their life with an adventurous cat knows this is not always true: some felines chase faucet drips, dip their paws into water bowls, or even willingly hop into the bathtub.
A cat's relationship with water is closely linked to its evolution, coat, and above all, the genetic heritage of its ancestors. Through a cat DNA test, it is now possible to trace your pet's genetic origins and understand if their aquatic behavior stems from the traits of specific breeds.
Is It Normal for a Cat to Like Water?
The Myth of Water Aversion vs. Feline Evolution
The common domestic cat (Felis catus) is primarily descended from the African wildcat (Felis lybica), a species adapted to arid, desert regions where water was a scarce and hazardous resource. It is hypothesized that this background is linked to the reluctance most felines have toward getting wet.
However, other feline lineages evolved in forested, swampy, or riverbank ecosystems, where swimming or fishing was a way to hunt for food. These species developed a natural affinity for aquatic environments that may have been passed down to their descendants.
Physical Adaptations: Waterproof Coats and Webbed Paws
Breeds drawn to water often display distinctive morphological traits:
- Double, waterproof coat: A dense fur layer with natural oils that repel water and prevent moisture from reaching the skin.
- Muscle and build: An athletic frame that makes swimming easier.
- Webbed paws: Certain breeds have extra skin between their toes, functioning like natural paddles.
The 6 Most "Aquatic" Cat Breeds
- Bengal: Inherited its love for fishing from its ancestor, the Asian leopard cat.
- Maine Coon: Its dense, waterproof coat protects it from cold and moisture.
- Turkish Van: Known as "the swimming cat," it willingly dives into water naturally.
- Abyssinian: Highly curious, it loves interacting with running faucets and water fountains.
- Norwegian Forest Cat: Its double coat insulates it and allows it to play with water without getting its skin wet.
- Savannah: A large hybrid cat that loves splashing around and getting into containers of water.
Most domestic cats are mixed-breed. If your cat is attracted to water, it likely carries genetic heritage from one of these aquatic breeds.
With the Koko Genetics Cat DNA Test, you can accurately discover your cat's breed, lineage breakdown, and the ancestors behind their most surprising behaviors.
