Why Are Cats Afraid Of Water? These Are The 4 Main Causes

JAKARTA - Cats are known as independent and clean animals. Unfortunately, cats don't like water. Starting from avoiding when it rains, getting angry when bathing, to running away from the spray.

The cat's reaction to water is often dramatic and funny. However, what is the real reason behind this attitude? Here's the reason behind the cat hating the water, as reported by the Live Science page.

1. Evolution Factor: Grandma Moyang Cat Is Not Used To Water

One of the main reasons cats hate water is related to their evolutionary history. Kristyn Vitale, an animal behaviorist from the Maueyes Cat Science and Education, explains that the ancestors of pet cats are African feral cats (Felis silvestris lybica), which live in dry environments and rarely interact with large amounts of water.

"They are not known to hunt near water or in water," Vitale said in an interview with Live Science.

"Most of their food comes from land animals like rats. So it's not surprising that pet cats are not used to water," he continued.

Therefore, cats inherit this trait and tend to avoid water because it is not naturally formed to live in a wet environment.

2. Wet Badminton Disrupts Movement

Cats depend heavily on their agility and speed to move. When their hair is wet, the weight increases and makes the movement feel stiff.

"Their holes become wet and heavy, so the movement becomes more difficult and that can make them feel vulnerable," explained Jennifer Vonk, an animal cognitive expert frombang University.

When they feel unable to move agilely, the cat feels insecure. This is why they can immediately run away or stress when exposed to water.

3. Water Disrupts Indra Smelling Cats

Cats have a very sharp sense of smell and use the smell to recognize the environment, other animals, and even themselves. When the hair is wet, the natural smell or air they usually emit can be covered with water, especially water that contains chemicals such as tap water.

"Water can cover their natural odor or bring a foreign odor, which cats can feel very disturbing," added Vonk.

This condition can make cats feel confused or stressed, especially if they suddenly cannot recognize the smell of their own bodies.

4. Not Accustomed with Water

Apart from natural factors, the initial experience of cats also plays a major role. If a cat cub is not used to water since childhood, it is likely that cats will be afraid of water as they grow up.

On the other hand, cats that grow up in a neighborhood with water (as often invited to play near water or get used to bathing), may not be too afraid of water.

"If a cat cub grows up in an environment that often interacts with water, it is likely that it will be more comfortable with water as it grows. However, each cat has its own personality," Vitale said.

So, even if you get used to it since childhood, not all cats will like water. Some still avoid it. However, there are also those who like to play with the water.