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Why are cats afraid of water?
Why are cats afraid of water?
Anonim

It is common opinion that water and cats do not get along at all: if its reflection tends to attract their attention, the mere idea of coming into contact with it seems terrify them. But because cats are afraid of water?

cat on surfboard
cat on surfboard

Although it is a widespread and well-established phenomenon, the fear of water it does not affect all cats, which are very different from each other in breed and character and can react differently to the same stimuli. First, however, let's investigate the possible reasons for this behavior.

A question of origins

One of the most popular theories to explain this aversion is connected with the origin of cats. Their ancestors, in fact, came from arid regions and deserts such as the Middle East, where their bodies have adapted to the lack of water, developing not only the ability to survive by drinking little but also a real distrust in his regards.

Cleaning yes, water no

If cats are notoriously obsessed with cleanliness, unlike us, they absolutely do not associate this concept with water: on the contrary, it frustrates all their efforts! It is much better for them to lick each other continuously and vigorously, as their coarse tongue keeps their fur clean and shiny and doesn't alter their natural smell.

cat in the tub
cat in the tub

Less agility

An obvious characteristic of cats is their extraordinary agility, which they do not like to give up. It is for this reason that some experts argue that their fear of water may also be due to difficulty moving which causes compared to when I'm on land. And if they have long hair, which becomes heavily wet when wet, they may have even more trouble trying to stay afloat.

Freddo

If the water they end up in is too cold, their body temperature will drop rapidly. Short-haired cats have little fur, the water comes into direct contact with their skin making them feel cold and eager to get out of the water.

cat takes a bath
cat takes a bath

Sensitivity to odors

Cats have a very sensitive sense of smell, which is why many don't like swimming outdoors - they may have smelled some chemicals in the water, and that's the same reason they might not like faucet.

Self-preservation instinct

The respiratory system of cats is very delicate and sensitive to diseases such as colds and flu, often related to prolonged contact with water and humidity. Furthermore, their ear canal is very deep and if wet it can become infected very easily. For this reason it is possible that some cats are averse to water because naturally predisposed to avoid situations that are dangerous to their health.

The due exceptions

Some people would be shocked if they saw a cat wallowing happily in the bathtub, but astonishing as you may be. they are not really all cats who hate water: indeed some are really comfortable swimming! So let's see some exceptions:

cat in the pool
cat in the pool
  • The Turkish Van loves being in the water, which is why specimens of this breed are sometimes called "swimming cats". They have an organism made for swimming, characterized by rounded legs, long limbs and a shiny, water-repellent coat.
  • Maine Coons are among the most domestic breeds but they love to play in the water, they also have a robust body and a thick and resistant coat.
  • Bengal cats are other great swimmers with a natural instinct to play in the water.

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