22 Cat Breeds That Surprisingly Love Water

Think cats and water don’t mix? While many feline friends might scurry away at the sight of a sprinkling shower, some breeds can’t get enough of it. These cats have a love of water built into their genes. Some of them love playing in puddles, splashing in their water bowls, or even joining you for a swim. Here are the cat breeds that are more at ease and interested in water.

Maine Coon

Named after the state of Maine where it originated, the Maine Coon is one of the largest domestic cat breeds. Its fur consists of a dense, water-repellent layer that helps it stay dry. These cats dip their paws into their water bowls, splash around, or even attempt to drink running water from faucets. Some owners report their Maine Coons being fascinated by bathtubs and even joining them for a soak.

Manx

The Manx cat, originating from the Isle of Man, might owe its love of water to its unique birthplace. You can easily recognize them by their tailless appearance, which results from a natural mutation. These cats might even join you in the shower or bath at the tap for fun. They are often seen tapping their water bowls, fascinated by the movement and reflection of the water.

Norwegian Forest Cat

The Norwegian Forest Cat is a majestic breed originating from Norway. Famous for their thick double coat that repels water, these cats are well-suited for cold climates. Thanks to their Viking roots and impressive hunting skills, they’re quite the little adventurers around water. From streams to puddles, these bold felines are always ready to make a splash.

Abyssinian

The Abyssinian cat is a medium-sized, agile cat known for its expressive almond-shaped eyes and short, dense fur. Their curiosity often extends to water, likely due to their coastal origins. Don’t be surprised if an Abyssinian dabbles its paws in your sink or follows droplets in the shower. This breed just enjoys playing with water.

Aegean

The Aegean cat has semi-long fur in white and other colors. Its love for water is a charming trait, rooted in its maritime history. Aegean cats are skilled swimmers and fishers. Their island lifestyle has made them fond of water, often catching fish near waterfronts. They are social, friendly, and quite intelligent. These cats are also playful and can easily adapt to human companionship.

American Bobtail

The American Bobtail is easily recognized by its “bobbed” tail, which has a sturdy, wild appearance with tufted ears and a short or long coat. Some Bobtails derive pleasure in water activities. Their thick fur, resistance to water, and innate curiosity make them more likely to paddle in a shallow pool or dabble in the water bowl. These cats also have dog-like personalities such as friendliness, loyalty, and remarkable intelligence.

American Shorthair

American Shorthairs have an intriguing curiosity about water, often pawing at their water dishes or investigating drips from taps. Their playful and adaptable personalities make them more open to experimenting with water when the mood strikes.

Egyptian Mau

The elegant Egyptian Mau are known for their striking green eyes and sleek, athletic build. With ancestors living near the Nile River, these cats have a natural affinity for water. They test their drinking water by dipping their paw into it before drinking. This behavior may have come from their ancestors who peed in streams to hide their scent from enemies.

Highlander

Highlanders love to splash around, often making a little mess. They’re fascinated by running water, whether from a faucet or a shower. You might even find one climbing into a running shower to chill. These cats have a muscular build, and they come in a variety of coat colors and patterns. Highlanders are sociable, energetic, and affectionate, often acting more like dogs than cats. Their love for water is a unique feature, possibly due to their curious and adventurous nature.

Savannah

When it comes to water, the Savannah’s wild heritage shines through. In the wild, servals (wild cats) are great swimmers, and this trait has been passed down to Savannahs. From swimming and observing water patterns to playfully splashing in water bowls, these cats enjoy it all. Savannahs dip their paws in water bowls to create little splashes. They even enjoy fishing their toys out of water.

Selkirk Rex

Selkirk Rex cats are natural little explorers when it comes to water. You’ll often see them playfully pawing at water bowls or trying to catch droplets from a tap. Their curiosity doesn’t stop there as they can splash in shallow water or attempt to join you in the bathtub. This playfulness is a result of their curious behavior and their love for new experiences.

Siamese

Siamese cats are adventurous. They love splashing with their paws, swatting at dripping faucets, and chasing water droplets. With their high energy and intelligence, Siamese cats often turn water play into an art form, figuring out how to turn on faucets or have fun with their water bowls.

Siberian

The Siberian cat’s fondness for water is a result of their heritage and adaptability. In native Russia, they developed a thick, water-resistant coat that allows them to handle wet and cold conditions. These cats are known to be curious and playful around water. You may catch them staring at running faucets, dipping their paws in water bowls, or even climbing into sinks. They are also excellent swimmers and can enjoy a supervised swim session.

Snowshoe

Snowshoe cats can’t resist running water. They love to play with their water bowls and can often be found curiously watching a running tap water. Sometimes, they’ll even dip themselves in water for a quick rinse if they feel dirty. These playful cats often explore sinks and showers. You may find them dipping their paws in water or following you into the bathroom just to see the flow of water.

Sphynx

Sphynx cats might look bald, but they have a layer of fuzz on their skin. Because their skin is oily, they need regular baths, and over time, many of these casts have gotten used to getting wet. Some Sphynx cats grow to love water and see it as a fun activity. It’s not unusual for them to jump into bathtubs, turning bath time into a playful adventure.

Japanese Bobtail

With their historical roots in fishing villages, the Japanese Bobtail’s love for water is practically in their DNA. These playful felines are often found energetically splashing water bowls with their paws. There’s just something irresistible about water for these curious cats. They might even dip their paws into a pool, like they’re testing the water, perhaps to ensure it’s just the right temperature for their next playtime.

Kurilian Bobtail

Kurilian Bobtails have a natural curiosity for water. Whether it’s a reservoir, stream, or even their water bowl, they are ready to investigate. These cats’ love for water stems from their island origins, where fishing was part of their daily life. You’ll often find them splashing around enthusiastically. Kurilian Bobtails might also dive into water play with excitement.

Bengal

Bengal cats enjoy all kinds of water activities, from splashing around to going for a swim. They are fearless and boast an adventurous personality, coupled with high energy levels and a curious nature. Bengals enjoy dipping their paws in bowls and swatting at floating objects.

British Shorthair

The British Shorthair features a dense, plush coat and a round, chubby-cheeked face. They’re not afraid of getting wet so you may see them playing with water from the tap or even in the shower. They’re also captivated by anything that moves. Water brings out their playful side and keeps them mentally stimulated, engaged, and out of trouble.

Burmese

While Burmese cats aren’t naturally water-loving, they can develop a fondness for it when introduced early. Their curious nature often draws them to explore water, which can lead to delightful moments of play. You may catch them scooping water from their bowls or playfully splashing with their paws. Over time, this inquisitiveness can turn bath time into an entertaining activity for both you and your cat.

Turkish Angora

The Turkish Angora hails from Ankara, Turkey, and is famous for its stunning long, silky fur and elegant look. Thanks to a history in water-abundant areas, these cats are naturally drawn to water. You’ll often catch a Turkish Angora mesmerized by running taps or even taking a delightful dip. They’re also confident swimmers. You may see them showcase their playful and curious nature around water.

Turkish Van

The Turkish Van, also known as the “Swimming Cat,” comes from the Lake Van area of Turkey. You’ll easily identify them with their unique, semi-long-haired coat with a distinctive color pattern. They are muscular and sturdy. Plus, these cats have a fascinating trait as they appear almost dry even when wet. Turkish Vans are also excellent swimmers. They will joyfully splash around, fully embracing their reputation as true water lovers.

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