Forget what you’ve heard—some cats love water! While many cats are known for running away from a dripping faucet or avoiding the bath at all costs, there are a select group of breeds that actually enjoy a splash or two. Yes, you read that right—these felines thrive in water!
From paddling in the pool to dipping their paws in the sink, these cats break the mold of the typical “water-averse” feline. Their curiosity and boldness lead them straight into the depths, not away from it. Forget the myths—these cats will have you rethinking everything you knew about their aquatic abilities.
If you’ve always thought cats and water were a match made in disaster, get ready to meet the breeds that prove otherwise. Grab your towel and prepare for a wet and wild adventure as we explore 21 cat breeds who aren’t afraid to make a splash!
Turkish Van
The Turkish Van is often referred to as the ‘swimming cat’ due to its love for water. Originating from the Lake Van region in Turkey, this breed has developed a unique affinity for swimming.
Their semi-long, water-repellent coat allows them to dry quickly after a swim. Turkish Vans are known for their playful nature and enjoy splashing around in water. They may even join you in the bath!
Keep an eye on them near water, as their curiosity and aquatic inclinations can lead them to unexpected adventures.
Maine Coon
Maine Coons are one of the largest domesticated cat breeds and are known for their gentle nature. These cats have a fascination with water and are often seen playing with their water bowls.
Their dense, water-resistant fur keeps them dry when they explore watery environments. Maine Coons are intelligent and may learn to turn on faucets or paw at water in sinks.
Their size and strength make them excellent swimmers, and they thrive in environments where they can indulge their love of water.
Bengal
Bengals are energetic cats with a wild appearance, resembling miniature leopards. Their love for water is well-documented, often enjoying interactive water play or even a swim.
Bengals possess a soft, short coat that doesn’t retain water, making them comfortable around aquatic settings. Their curiosity leads them to investigate running water, and many owners find them following streams or dipping their paws into ponds.
These active cats require stimulation, and water play is a perfect way to keep them entertained and exercised.
Savannah
Savannah cats are known for their striking appearance and adventurous personality. A cross between a domestic cat and a serval, they inherit a natural curiosity and agility.
They are drawn to water and may paddle in shallow pools or join their owners for a swim. Their short, sleek coat dries quickly, enhancing their swimming experience.
Savannahs are highly energetic and thrive in environments that challenge their physical abilities. Providing opportunities for water play can satisfy their adventurous spirit and keep them engaged.
Abyssinian
Abyssinians are curious and playful cats with a regal appearance. Their sleek, ticked coat is not only beautiful but also quick-drying, which complements their interest in water.
These cats may not dive right in, but they certainly enjoy dabbling and playing with water. Their inquisitive nature often leads them to explore new environments, including water sources.
Engaging them in water-based activities can enhance their playful spirit and provide mental stimulation. Abyssinians are natural explorers and enjoy environments where they can satisfy their curiosity.
Norwegian Forest Cat
Norwegian Forest Cats are equipped with a luxurious, water-resistant coat, perfect for exploring watery terrains. Originating from the rugged climates of Scandinavia, they are built to withstand cold and wet conditions.
These cats are natural hunters and may enjoy fishing in shallow waters. Their strong, muscular bodies enable them to navigate diverse environments with ease.
Norwegian Forest Cats are independent yet affectionate, often accompanying their owners on outdoor adventures. Their affinity for water makes them unique among feline companions.
Manx
Manx cats are known for their distinctive taillessness and playful disposition. Originating from the Isle of Man, these cats have adapted to a variety of environments, including coastal areas.
Manx cats are intrigued by water and may engage in playful activities near it. Their dense, short coat provides some water resistance, enabling them to explore damp environments comfortably.
Despite their lack of a tail, Manx cats are agile swimmers and love the excitement of water play. They thrive in homes that offer diverse and stimulating activities.
Siberian
Siberians are majestic cats with a dense, triple-layered coat designed for cold climates. This coat provides excellent water resistance, allowing them to enjoy water-related activities.
Siberians are known for their playful and adventurous nature, often showing interest in bathwater or open water sources. These cats are agile and strong, making them capable swimmers.
Engaging them in water play can satisfy their natural curiosity and provide physical exercise. Siberians are affectionate companions who enjoy interactive environments that challenge their intellect and physical abilities.
Turkish Angora
Turkish Angoras are elegant and graceful cats with a fondness for water. Their fine, silky coat is surprisingly resistant to water. These cats are curious and may venture into bathtubs or play with dripping faucets.
Turkish Angoras enjoy interactive play and often find water to be an intriguing element. Their playful demeanor and agility make them natural explorers of wet environments.
They are intelligent and social, thriving in homes where they receive plenty of attention and engagement. Water play can enrich their lives and strengthen bonds with their human companions.
Burmese
Burmese cats are affectionate and sociable, often seen interacting with their human companions. Their curiosity extends to water, where they may enjoy playful splashes or gentle swims.
The Burmese coat is short and fine, allowing them to dry rapidly after water play. These cats are intelligent and enjoy interactive environments that stimulate their senses.
Engaging them in water-related activities can provide entertainment and exercise. Burmese cats are known for their loyal nature, often forming strong bonds with their families. Water play offers a unique way to connect with these charming companions.
Japanese Bobtail
The Japanese Bobtail is a playful and intelligent breed known for its distinctive short tail. These cats have a natural affinity for water and often enjoy playing in it.
Their short, soft coat dries quickly, making them comfortable around wet environments. Japanese Bobtails are energetic and enjoy interactive play, including water games that challenge their agility.
Their curiosity often leads them to explore running water or shallow pools. As social and engaging companions, they thrive in homes that offer plenty of playtime and stimulation, including water-based activities.
LaPerm
The LaPerm is a unique breed with a distinctive curly coat and an unexpected love for water. Originating from Oregon, USA, these cats possess a playful and curious nature.
Their curly fur, while not typically associated with water, surprisingly handles moisture well, allowing them to indulge in aquatic adventures without much fuss.
LaPerms are also known for their affectionate disposition, often following their owners around and engaging in playful antics. Their love for water adds an extra layer of fun to their already charming personalities.
American Bobtail
American Bobtails are sturdy and playful cats known for their short tails and tufted ears. They are intrigued by water and often enjoy engaging in playful activities near it.
Their dense, semi-long coat offers some water resistance, allowing them to explore wet environments comfortably. American Bobtails are intelligent and social, thriving in environments that offer a variety of stimulating activities.
Water play provides an excellent opportunity to engage their playful nature and keep them entertained. These cats form strong bonds with their families and enjoy interactive play.
Singapura
The Singapura is one of the smallest cat breeds but comes with a big personality. These cats are known for their playful and curious nature. While they may not dive into water, they enjoy playing with it and are often seen pawing at water dishes or exploring wet surfaces.
Their short, fine coat dries quickly, making them comfortable around water. Singapuras are social and enjoy interactive play, including activities involving water. Providing them with water-based toys or games can satisfy their curiosity and keep them entertained.
Chartreux
Chartreux cats are known for their striking blue-gray coat and quiet demeanor. Despite their calm appearance, they have a playful side and often show interest in water.
Chartreux may engage in gentle water play, such as pawing at water or watching it flow. Their dense, water-resistant coat allows them to explore moist environments comfortably.
These cats are affectionate and form strong bonds with their owners. Water-related activities can provide stimulation and exercise, enhancing their playful side. Chartreux cats thrive in environments that offer both companionship and interactive play.
Egyptian Mau
The Egyptian Mau is a graceful and athletic breed known for its striking spotted coat. These cats are curious and often show interest in water. Egyptian Maus may not swim often, but they enjoy playing with water and watching it move.
Their short, fine coat dries quickly, making them comfortable around wet environments. These cats are active and require physical and mental stimulation to keep them engaged.
Water play provides an exciting way to entertain them and satisfy their curiosity. Egyptian Maus are affectionate companions who enjoy interactive play.
Korat
Korats are gentle and affectionate cats known for their silver-blue coat and heart-shaped face. They have a playful side and often show interest in water. Korats may enjoy batting at water or watching it flow, engaging their natural curiosity.
Their short, glossy coat dries quickly, allowing them to explore water-related activities comfortably. These cats are intelligent and require stimulation to keep them entertained.
Water play can provide both mental and physical exercise, enhancing their playful nature. Korats form strong bonds with their families and thrive in interactive environments.
Sphynx
The Sphynx is a unique breed known for its lack of fur and affectionate nature. Despite their hairlessness, they enjoy warm environments and may show interest in water.
Sphynx cats are curious and may play near water or take cautious dips. Their skin requires regular cleaning, as oils are not absorbed by fur. Water play can be an enjoyable activity for this breed, offering both stimulation and bonding time with their owners.
Sphynx cats are social and thrive in homes where they receive plenty of attention and affection.
Pixie-Bob
Pixie-Bobs are domestic cats that resemble wild bobcats in appearance. They are adventurous and often show interest in water. Pixie-Bobs may enjoy splashing in shallow water or watching streams.
Their dense, water-resistant coat allows them to explore wet environments comfortably. These cats are intelligent and require stimulation to keep them entertained.
Water play can be an excellent way to engage their curiosity and provide physical exercise. Pixie-Bobs are social and form strong bonds with their families, enjoying interactive play that challenges their abilities.
Cornish Rex
The Cornish Rex is known for its curly, soft coat and energetic personality. These cats are playful and often show interest in water. Cornish Rexes may engage in water play, such as pawing at running water or exploring wet surfaces.
Their coat is short and doesn’t retain water, making them comfortable around aquatic environments. These cats are active and enjoy interactive play that challenges their agility and intellect.
Water-related activities can provide both entertainment and exercise for this engaging breed. Cornish Rex cats thrive in homes where they receive plenty of attention and playtime.
Ragdoll
Ragdolls are known for their docile and affectionate nature. While not all Ragdolls are water enthusiasts, some enjoy gentle water play or watching water move.
Their semi-long, silky coat is not prone to matting, making them comfortable around water. Ragdolls are social and enjoy spending time with their human companions.
Water play can be a relaxing and enjoyable activity for these laid-back cats, offering both stimulation and bonding opportunities. Ragdolls thrive in environments that provide both companionship and gentle interactive play.