It's long been believed that cats hate water, and that forcing them near the bathtub is like a petty domestic battle. But if you look online, you'll find videos of cats like Turkish Vans or Bengals happily swimming, which raises the question: Can we really teach cats to swim?
?Myth vs. Fact: Why do cats behave this way around water
Myth: All cats hate water.
Fact: Not all cats hate water. The aversion to water in most domestic cats is a learned behavior, not an innate one. Reasons include:
1. Their fur: Cats' fur isn't designed for swimming. When it gets wet, it becomes very heavy, making it slow and difficult for them to escape danger Drying their thick fur also takes a long time.
2. Negative Experience: Cats' first experience with water is often associated with forced bathing or being sprayed as punishment, creating a negative association.
3. Smell: Cats' keen sense of smell makes them sensitive to the strong odors in chlorinated or seawater.
:Exceptions: Naturally Water-loving Cats
Some breeds are known for their exceptional love of water and swimming, due to their genetic history or the nature of their coat:
· Turkish Van Cat: Nicknamed the "swimming cat," it has a water-resistant coat and was once a master at hunting in Lake Van, Turkey.
· Bengal Cat: Descended from wild cats, it loves playing in water and swimming.
· Maine Coon: With its dense, semi-water-resistant coat With its fin-like claws, it often shows a keen interest in water.
· Abyssinians and Savannahs: Active and curious breeds that may find water a source of entertainment.
:Step-by-Step Guide to Teaching Cats to Swim
Important Warning: Never force your cat to swim. Forcing it will cause extreme fear and possibly aggression, and will ruin any chance of it accepting water in the future.
Step 1: Start young and build it up gradually:
Start getting your cat used to water while he's still a kitten. Keep the sessions short and positive.
Step 2: Choose a safe, quiet place:
Don't start in the ocean or pool. Use a bathtub or baby tub filled with a small amount of lukewarm (not cold or hot) water.
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Step 3: Make it a game:
Put some of his favorite floating toys in the water.
· Let him stomp on the water with his paws.
· Use floating feeding toys containing his favorite food.
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Step 4: Encourage, Don't Push:
Use a calm, reassuring voice. Offer him food rewards every time he approaches or touches the water.
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Step 5: Full Body Support:
When it's time to enter the water, gently place him in the water with full body support. Let his paws touch the base so he feels secure. Never leave him unattended.
Step 6: Short and Fun Sessions:
Even if they're having fun, don't prolong the session. The goal is to end the session with them still happy, not exhausted or scared.
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:Important Safety Points You Shouldn't Ignore
1. Never Take Risks: Never leave your cat near a pool or the ocean unsupervised. Cats can easily drown if they don't find a way out.
2. Cat Lifebuoy: For swimming in the sea or lake, use a cat lifebuoy. It provides buoyancy and makes it easier for you to pull your cat out if it gets tired.
3. Dry Immediately: After exiting the water, dry your cat immediately with a soft, dry towel to prevent hypothermia.
4. Fresh Water: Make sure your cat drinks fresh water after swimming, especially if swimming in the sea or pool. To avoid drinking saltwater or chlorinated water.
Ultimately, swimming is not a necessary activity for cats. While they can learn to do it, the decision is theirs. If your cat shows curiosity and interest in water, you can carefully and patiently try to introduce this experience to them in a positive and safe way.