Cats and water—two things that supposedly don’t mix. But guess what? Some felines didn’t get the memo.
While most cats treat water like it’s molten lava, there are a few rebel breeds that dive right in, paws first. These fearless kitties splash in sinks, paddle through pools, and even enjoy a good bath (yes, really).
From Turkish Vans, known as the “swimming cats,” to Bengals that treat water bowls like personal playpens, these cats are anything but typical. Some even love joining their humans in the shower—whether you invited them or not.
Ready to meet 15 cats that defy the stereotype? Grab a towel, because these water-loving felines are about to make a splash!
Turkish Van
The Turkish Van is often known as the “swimming cat” due to its unique affinity for water. This breed thrives in aquatic environments, and its water-resistant coat makes it an excellent swimmer.
Imagine a Turkish Van splashing joyfully in a puddle or lazily floating in a pool. These cats often enjoy bathtime and are known to leap into the water with enthusiasm.
If you own a Turkish Van, consider providing a small pool or bathtub for them to explore. Their love for water can lead to endless entertainment and bond strengthening.
Bengal
Bengal cats have a wild ancestry, and their fascination with water is part of this legacy. These energetic felines love to splash and play in water, reminiscent of their ancestors’ riverine habitats.
Bengals are often spotted interacting with running water, like faucets or fountains, and seem to revel in the sound and feel of it.
Having a Bengal means you might find them paddling in the bathtub or exploring a garden pond. Encouraging their aquatic play can provide them with much-needed stimulation and joy.
Maine Coon
The Maine Coon is a gentle giant with a surprising love for water. Known for its tufted ears and bushy tail, this breed often enjoys playing with water.
From swatting at water in a bowl to joining their humans in the shower, Maine Coons are curious about all things wet. Their water-resistant fur and large paws make them excellent swimmers.
Providing them with interactive water toys or supervised access to shallow pools can enhance their playful nature and satisfy their curiosity.
Savannah
Savannah cats, a cross between domestic cats and servals, inherit a keen interest in water. Their exotic heritage gives them an adventurous spirit, and water is no exception.
These agile cats are often seen pawing at water bowls, tapping on fish tanks, or investigating ponds. Their curiosity can lead them to unexpected watery escapades.
Owners of Savannahs should be prepared for their water-loving antics and can encourage safe aquatic play by introducing shallow water features in a controlled environment.
Abyssinian
Abyssinians are known for their active and playful nature, and water is just another playground for them. These cats may not swim frequently, but they love to interact with water playfully.
From tapping at dripping faucets to splashing in water bowls, Abyssinians show a keen interest in water. Their energetic personality makes them adventurous explorers.
If you have an Abyssinian, consider integrating water toys into their playtime routine to satisfy their curiosity and keep them engaged.
Norwegian Forest Cat
Norwegian Forest Cats, with their natural hunting instincts, are drawn to water. This breed often exhibits a fascination with streams and ponds.
Their thick, water-shedding coats protect them from the cold, encouraging them to explore wet environments. These cats are known to fish in shallow waters or play in rain puddles.
Owners can enrich their lives by providing access to water play areas outdoors, where they can safely indulge their aquatic curiosities under supervision.
Turkish Angora
The Turkish Angora is a graceful and elegant breed with a surprising love for water. Known for their silky coats, they are often intrigued by moving water sources.
Whether it’s a trickling stream or a filled bathtub, these cats show a natural curiosity and often engage in water play. Their agile movements make them captivating to watch.
Encouraging their interaction with water can provide mental stimulation and help strengthen your bond with this charming and intelligent breed.
Siberian
Siberians are robust cats with a love for adventure, and water is part of their exploratory nature. Their thick, water-repellent coats make them comfortable in wet environments.
These cats often enjoy playing with water bowls or exploring rain-soaked gardens. Siberians are sometimes seen fishing in small ponds, showcasing their playful side.
Owners can encourage this natural behavior by providing water-based toys or facilitating safe outdoor water play, which can enrich their environment.
Manx
Manx cats, known for their taillessness, have a surprising affinity for water. These cats are often intrigued by the sound and movement of water.
From playing with dripping taps to wading in shallow pools, Manx cats display a playful curiosity. Their sociable nature makes them eager participants in water games.
Providing them with water fountains or supervised access to water features can enhance their enjoyment and provide both physical and mental stimulation.
Japanese Bobtail
Japanese Bobtails, with their distinctive short tails, are often drawn to water. This breed has a lively personality and enjoys playing with water droplets and fountains.
They are sometimes seen fishing for koi or investigating garden water features, demonstrating their playful nature.
If you own a Japanese Bobtail, encourage their interest by introducing water play into their routine, offering them a chance to explore and engage with their environment in a fun way.
Chartreux
The Chartreux is a calm and observant breed that often enjoys the soothing aspects of water. These cats might not dive right in, but they love to watch and occasionally interact with water.
Chartreux cats may be found sitting by a sink, intrigued by the gentle flow of water. Their interest is more observational but equally engaging.
Offering them access to water features or fountains can provide mental stimulation, matching their serene and contemplative nature.
Sphynx
The Sphynx, known for its hairless appearance, surprisingly enjoys water activities. These cats appreciate the warmth and comfort that water brings.
Sphynx cats are often seen playing near warm baths or following the path of water droplets. Their affectionate nature makes them enthusiastic about bath time.
Owners should ensure that the water’s temperature is suitable and supervise their play to provide a safe and enjoyable experience, enhancing their bond with this unique breed.
Russian Blue
Russian Blues are elegant and reserved cats that often find themselves fascinated by water. Though they may not swim, they enjoy the sight and sound of water.
These cats are often found perched by aquariums or watching rain from a window. Their serene demeanor pairs well with the calming presence of water.
Providing them with water features or calm water activities can offer mental stimulation and complement their peaceful nature.
Egyptian Mau
The Egyptian Mau is a graceful and athletic breed with a known interest in water. With their spotted coats, they are often drawn to playful water activities.
These cats enjoy splashing in fountains or chasing water streams, displaying both agility and curiosity.
Creating opportunities for water play, whether indoors or in a secure garden space, can provide them with mental and physical engagement, catering to their playful and energetic personality.
Ragdoll
Ragdolls are known for their docile nature, and their approach to water is often gentle and curious. These cats might not swim but enjoy interacting with water in subtle ways.
From swatting at water in bowls to watching bathtubs fill, Ragdolls display a serene interest in water. Their calm demeanor makes them delightful companions during water play.
Providing them with water fountains or shallow interactive water toys can offer both entertainment and relaxation, enhancing their overall well-being.