When most people think of cats, they imagine creatures that detest getting wet, carefully avoiding puddles, baths, or even the slightest splash. However, that’s not true for all cats. Some breeds have a surprising fondness for water, happily playing in sinks, pawing at fountains, or even diving into pools. On the flip side, some cats live up to the stereotype, preferring to stay as far from water as possible to maintain their comfort and dignity. Let’s explore 10 breeds that embrace water with enthusiasm and 10 that avoid it entirely.

1. Turkish Van

The Turkish Van is famously known as “the swimming cat” due to its extraordinary love for water. This breed originates from the Lake Van region in Turkey, where its ancestors developed a natural affinity for aquatic environments. The Turkish Van’s unique water-resistant coat ensures they remain comfortable even when wet. They are playful and curious, often seeking out opportunities to explore water, whether it’s a shallow pool, a running faucet, or even a bathtub. Their confident and bold temperament makes them a favorite among owners who enjoy active and engaging pets.

2. Bengal

Bengal cats stand out for their athletic build and high energy, traits that make them natural explorers. With wild Asian leopard cat ancestry, Bengals have inherited a love for water. These cats are fascinated by moving water and are often seen playing with faucets or dipping their paws into bowls. They’re known to splash around in puddles and may even take a swim if given the opportunity. Their love for water complements their playful personality, making them a joy for owners who appreciate active and adventurous pets. Bengals thrive in environments where their curiosity is constantly engaged.

3. Maine Coon

Known as the largest domestic cat breed, Maine Coons have a robust and adventurous nature that includes a fondness for water. Their thick, water-resistant coat keeps them comfortable in wet conditions, which is perhaps why they’ve historically been associated with ships and seafaring communities. Maine Coons enjoy splashing around and will often be drawn to water bowls, sinks, or even the occasional swim. Their gentle and sociable demeanor makes them perfect companions for families who appreciate their blend of playfulness and affection. These cats are as comfortable near water as they are lounging at home.

4. Turkish Angora

Another Turkish breed with a deep connection to water is the Turkish Angora. This elegant feline is curious and intelligent, traits that draw them to explore their surroundings, including water sources. Whether it’s a sink, a running tap, or a bathtub, Turkish Angoras are quick to investigate. Their silky, fine coat allows them to dry off quickly, adding to their comfort in wet environments. These cats are playful and interactive, often joining their owners during bath time just to swat at water or observe the ripples. Their lively personality makes them a delightful and engaging pet.

5. American Bobtail

Known as the “dog of the cat world,” the American Bobtail is a loyal, affectionate, and playful breed that enjoys water-based activities. These cats are intelligent and often figure out how to interact with water in unique ways, such as turning on faucets to create their entertainment. They may dip their paws into water bowls, splash around, or simply watch the water with fascination. Their thick coat provides some resistance to water, making them more comfortable with getting wet than other breeds. American Bobtails are ideal for owners who want a fun-loving and interactive feline.

6. Norwegian Forest Cat

The Norwegian Forest Cat, with its majestic appearance and thick, water-repellent coat, is perfectly adapted to exploring wet environments. Originating from the cold, forested regions of Scandinavia, this breed is known for its love of water and natural hunting instincts. They are skilled at fishing, so owners of aquariums should take precautions. Norwegian Forest Cats enjoy splashing around and may even dip into shallow pools. Their combination of intelligence, curiosity, and physical resilience makes them excellent companions for active households that can provide stimulating activities.

7. Japanese Bobtail

The Japanese Bobtail is a playful and intelligent breed with a surprising interest in water. While they may not swim like the Turkish Van, they love playing with water by dipping their paws into bowls or batting at droplets from a faucet. These cats are active and social, often engaging in water-based games that showcase their curious and adventurous spirit. With their distinctive short tails and energetic nature, Japanese Bobtails are a unique and entertaining addition to any home. Their ability to bond deeply with their owners makes them an exceptional choice for families seeking a lively companion.

8. Manx

Originating from the Isle of Man, the Manx cat’s connection to water likely stems from its maritime heritage. These intelligent and social cats are naturally curious about water and enjoy exploring it in various forms. Whether it’s splashing around in a shallow basin or observing running water with fascination, Manx cats show an uncommon comfort with wet environments. Their short tails and stocky build add to their distinct appearance and charm. Manx cats are known for their loyal, dog-like personalities, making them a wonderful choice for families who appreciate engaging and affectionate pets.

9. Abyssinian

Abyssinians are one of the oldest and most active cat breeds, known for their high energy and curiosity. Their interest in water is a natural extension of their adventurous personality. These cats are often seen playing near faucets, swatting at water droplets, or exploring shallow pools. Their short coat makes them comfortable in wet conditions, as they dry off quickly. Abyssinians are intelligent and affectionate, forming strong bonds with their owners. They thrive in interactive environments where their playful and inquisitive nature is encouraged, making them a delightful addition to any home.

10. Snowshoe

The Snowshoe is a striking breed with a love for water that matches its distinct appearance. Named for the white markings on its paws, the Snowshoe is naturally drawn to running water and may even enjoy swimming. These cats are clever and learn quickly, often figuring out how to turn on faucets or play with water in creative ways. Their playful and social nature makes them excellent companions for owners who enjoy interactive pets. Snowshoes are also highly affectionate, blending their love for fun with a gentle and loving demeanor.

11. Persian

Persians are known for their luxurious, dense coats, which become heavy and uncomfortable when wet. This breed avoids water to maintain their comfort and pristine appearance. Persians prefer cozy, dry environments where they can lounge peacefully. Their calm and laid-back nature makes them ideal for owners who enjoy quiet companionship. However, their grooming needs are significant, as their long fur requires regular brushing to prevent tangles. Persians are content to stay indoors, away from the discomfort of wet environments, making them a low-energy yet elegant pet option.

12. Ragdoll

Ragdolls are gentle and affectionate cats with soft, semi-long fur that isn’t water-resistant. While they adore being close to their owners, they dislike getting wet, as water makes their fur heavy and uncomfortable. These calm and docile cats are known for their relaxed demeanor, often going limp when held. They prefer dry, cozy environments where they can lounge and cuddle with their human companions. Ragdolls thrive in peaceful households and tend to avoid any activities that might involve water, favoring comfort over adventure.

13. British Shorthair

The British Shorthair is a dignified and independent breed that prefers to steer clear of water. Their dense, plush coats can trap moisture, making the experience of being wet unpleasant. These cats are known for their calm and composed temperament, often spending their time relaxing in dry, comfortable spots around the home. British Shorthairs value routine and stability, and water play is far from their list of preferred activities. Their easygoing personality makes them an excellent choice for owners who appreciate a low-maintenance and serene feline companion.

14. Scottish Fold

With their distinctive folded ears and endearing expression, Scottish Folds are beloved for their sweet and quiet nature. However, water is not their friend. These cats dislike getting wet, as it disrupts their usual comfort and serenity. Their short, dense coats dry quickly, but their preference is to remain in warm, dry spaces. Scottish Folds are affectionate and enjoy close bonds with their families, often following their owners around the house. Despite their playful side, they tend to avoid activities involving water, making them ideal for households seeking a peaceful and low-energy pet.

15. Himalayan

Himalayans, closely related to Persians, share a similar aversion to water due to their thick, luxurious coats. These cats are known for their calm and affectionate nature, preferring quiet and dry environments where they can relax. Their grooming needs are extensive, as their long fur requires regular brushing to stay clean and tangle-free. Himalayans are ideal for owners who appreciate a laid-back companion. They avoid water whenever possible, choosing to lounge in warm, cozy spaces instead of exploring anything remotely wet or damp.

16. Sphynx

Despite their lack of fur, Sphynx cats strongly dislike water. Their sensitive, bare skin is prone to temperature changes, making them feel uncomfortable and cold when wet. These cats require regular bathing to manage oil buildup on their skin, but they don’t enjoy the process. Sphynx cats are social, affectionate, and playful, often seeking warmth from blankets or their owners’ laps. While they may tolerate water for hygiene purposes, they prefer dry environments where they can remain warm and cozy, making them unique yet lovable companions.

17. Devon Rex

The Devon Rex is a playful and mischievous breed that avoids water despite its curious nature. Their delicate, thin coats offer little protection from wetness, leaving them feeling cold and uncomfortable. These cats prefer staying dry and warm, often seeking out soft, cozy spots around the home. While they enjoy engaging in playful activities, water-based fun is not on their list. Devon Rex cats are affectionate and energetic, thriving in environments where they can explore and interact without the discomfort of damp conditions.

18. Russian Blue

The Russian Blue is a reserved and elegant breed that prefers to avoid water. Their sleek, dense coat is low-maintenance and not suited for wet environments. These cats enjoy peaceful and dry spaces where they can relax without disruption. Known for their gentle and affectionate nature, Russian Blues form close bonds with their families but shy away from anything that might cause discomfort, including water. They are an excellent choice for owners seeking a quiet and low-energy pet that appreciates routine and tranquility.

19. Exotic Shorthair

Exotic Shorthairs, often called “Persians in pajamas,” share many traits with their long-haired relatives, including an aversion to water. Their plush, dense coats retain moisture, making them uncomfortable when wet. These cats prefer to spend their time lounging in dry, cozy spots rather than engaging in water-based activities. Their calm and affectionate nature makes them ideal for indoor living, where they can avoid the elements. Exotic Shorthairs are low-energy companions who value comfort and stability over adventure, making them a favorite among cat lovers.

20. Chartreux

The Chartreux is a quiet and serene breed with a strong preference for dry environments. These cats are known for their dense, woolly coats, which are not designed for wet conditions. Chartreux cats prefer to stay indoors, away from water, choosing instead to relax in warm, peaceful spots. Their calm and affectionate demeanor makes them perfect companions for owners who value tranquility. While they are playful and engaging, they are unlikely to show any interest in water-based activities, making them a low-maintenance and serene addition to any home.

Love Pets as Much as We Do?

Scroll up and click the ‘Follow’ button to stay updated with the latest heart-warming, hilarious, and helpful pet posts from Pawdown, delivered straight to your Microsoft Start feed and MSN homepage!