Cat owners know that preparing both the pet and themselves for water procedures is necessary in advance... While dog owners can wash their four-legged friends after a walk every day without worrying about their own physical and emotional state. So why do cats dislike water so much, while dogs are more understanding of it?
Most dogs enjoy swimming, fetching balls in bodies of water, jumping into pools, and even diving. In contrast, cats behave differently. However, zoologists emphasize that this statement does not apply to all animals. “Not all cats hate water, and not all dogs love it, but in general, domestic cats do not have a fondness for swimming. There are several reasons for this,” says Kelly Bollen, director of behavioral programs at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Cats Dislike Wet Fur
One reason for this attitude is that a cat's fur takes a long time to dry, and it is uncomfortable and “unfavorable” for them to be completely wet. Additionally, cats are known for their high cleanliness. According to the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA), since these animals spend a lot of time grooming their fur, it is unacceptable for them to “mess up their hairstyle.” You have probably noticed that after a bath, a cat will groom itself for several more hours until it is satisfied that every hair is in place.
Cats Evolved from Arid Regions
Another reason for this behavior is the evolutionary history of domestic cats. They are believed to have evolved in the dry climates of deserts. Throughout their early history, these animals did not encounter bodies of water, rivers, or rain, so water was something new and unfamiliar to them.
So Why Do Dogs Love Water?
Dogs, on the other hand, have a completely different reaction. First, some breeds were specifically developed for work in water (such as the Portuguese Water Dog and the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever). Second, swimming is a great way for dogs to cool off and stay physically active. Dogs are more active than cats, so immersion in water becomes good exercise for them. Unlike cats, dogs also prefer to explore new scents. While a strong odor may scare a cat, it will encourage a dog to come closer.
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