How Does a Cat React to Getting Wet?
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All Cats are Different
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Some cats love the water; others will do anything to keep away. Sure, cats like to give themselves baths--but it's on their own terms and with their own tongue. It's important for pet owners to anticipate how their cat will act when presented with water. If a cat is near the tub while the kids are taking a bath, it's possible for the cat to get splashed. Knowing how the cat will react could help protect the kids from getting scratched.
Splish Splash
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Nearly all cats will get spooked if suddenly splashed with water. Cats have very keen senses, and an unintentional splash could cause the cat to react to the water as if it were a predator. To find out how a cat will react to water, allow the cat to see the water coming. Let the cat smell the water and see it being poured. See whether the cat jumps and runs, stands and hisses, or seems to enjoy it. This could foreshadow how the cat will act when immersed in water.
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Hates Water
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Cats that hate water will generally act one of two ways. Some cats will run away and try to avoid water at all costs. Owners who try to give cats a bath will have to find the cat hiding under a bed or dresser. When holding the cat close to water, the cat may try to wiggle out of an owner's grip and run away.
Other cats will defend themselves against the water and anyone else who gets in the way of their escape. Cats will usually give out a warning meow, followed by an attempt to escape. If this does not work, the claws will come out. You will hear hissing, and the cat could possibly start to bite or scratch. Once the cat is immersed in water, it will try desperately to flee. If in a bathtub, the cat will slip and slide until it has finally jumped out. If in a pool, the cat may instinctively swim to the side and run off. Cats that dislike water usually try to stay out of the rain as well, and will curl up under a tree or on the side of a house to keep from getting wet.
Loves Water
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There are many videos on YouTube showing cats that love to be in the water. Cats can swim naturally, and some breeds will play in the water or even hunt for fish. Some owners will fill a bath full of water and even a floating play toy for the cat. Most cats feel better when their paws reach the bottom, so they can glide around instead of having to constantly swim. Some owners will leave the faucet on like a waterfall for the cats.
Some cats that dislike water will tolerate a bath. They generally try to stay away from the water and will shake and be scared while in the tub. These cats are better off if the tub is filled with water and the faucet stays off. They also like to be able to stand up in the water. They may use their claws--not in defense, but to eventually crawl out of the tub.
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