If you ask anyone whether cats can swim, you’ll probably hear the same answer: cats hate water. While that is true for many felines, it does not mean they are unable to swim.
In fact, most healthy cats have the natural ability to paddle if they find themselves in water. The real question is not whether they can swim, but whether they want to.
Some breeds are even known for enjoying water far more than others, making the answer more surprising than many people expect.
So, let’s understand the connection between cats and swimming in detail.
Can cats naturally swim?
If you want a one-word answer, yes. You will find that the majority of the cats that are in good physical condition can swim easily. Now, many of you may ask if it is important to teach a cat to swim. So, eventually, no.
Let’s say your cat accidentally falls into water, so it will kick in based on its instincts. And this is how it can come out of it.
You might not find a cat’s movements as graceful as a dog’s. But if a cat is able to swim, that does not imply it enjoys doing it.
Why do most cats avoid water?
If you have a domestic cat at your home, you will find that your pet wants to stay dry. Let’s understand the reasons below.
Wet fur feels heavy
For your feline friend, if it gets soaked in water, its coat can become very heavy. A soaked coat can make movement more difficult. As a result, your cat will not be able to move properly. There are also chances that it will feel cold.
Now, as we know that cats naturally want agility and quick movements, they become uncomfortable when they are bound to carry a waterlogged coat.
They like being in control
Generally, cats want an environment where they can feel secure. And water is actually unpredictable for them. They are not able to jump or escape quickly from water; that’s why they don’t like it.
They spend time grooming
Cats spend a significant amount of time self-grooming, so a soaked coat often means extra grooming afterward. If you’ve noticed your cat doing this, and its fur becomes soaked in water, it will have to spend a significant amount of time restoring it. Your cat does not want to do that extra work.
Some cats actually love water
According to research, most cats do not like swimming, but there are some exceptions that will blow your mind completely. Some particular cat breeds love water more than others. Some of the most common names include:
If you have one of these cats at your home, you will find that your cat will enjoy splashing in the sink at your home. It will want to play with running water. Some may show curiosity about running water or shallow water at home.
Can kittens swim?
Now comes a very basic question: can a young cat swim easily? It is very simple to understand. A kitten has paddling instincts, but it is much more vulnerable as well.
Because they are small, they become tired very quickly in water. Also, there are chances that your kitten might catch a cold very easily. That’s why experts recommend not keeping your young cat in water to teach it how to swim.
But in case it gets into water accidentally, you need to dry it immediately. Otherwise, young kittens can lose body heat quickly after getting wet, so they should be dried promptly.
Is it safe to let a cat swim?
Most of the cats do not consider swimming a source of entertainment for them. So if you find that your cat is voluntarily enjoying water, let it do the same. But at the same time, always be with your cat and supervise it carefully.
It is also important to consider these safe practices that include the following:
Providing an easy way to get out of water
Using shallow water whenever possible
Never forcing your cat to go to water to swim
Drying the cat once it comes out of the water
Watching for signs of stress
If you find that your cat is being fearful or panicking, bring it out of the water immediately.
Conclusion
Most healthy cats can swim if they need to, but that doesn’t mean they enjoy being in the water. While a few breeds are naturally more comfortable around water, the majority prefer to stay dry and avoid swimming whenever possible.
If your cat shows an interest in water, always supervise it closely and never force the experience. Respecting your cat’s comfort level is the best way to keep it safe and happy.
