It’s not surprising that many cats are averse to water, given that they’re so used to cleaning themselves by licking. While dogs are happy to play with the hose or jump in a pool, most cats are reluctant to dip a paw into a bath or sink full of water.

The good news is that there are some felines who love the idea of getting wet, and these cats may even enjoy playing with running water! For example, the Turkish van is a rare breed that has been nicknamed the “swimming cat.” These cats have cashmere-like coats that are waterproof, so they can swim around like fish and paddle their way through rivers and streams.

A few other reasons why cats hate water could include their ancestry, being skittish about new experiences and being exposed to harsh punishments. In addition, cats can smell 14 times better than humans, so scented shampoos or conditioners might be off-putting.

Cats also have a natural instinct to avoid bodies of water that they can get into, because these could be dangerous for them, according to LeeAnna Buis, a certified feline training and behavior consultant with Feline Behavior Solutions in California. It’s also because they can feel cold, she explained.

Besides that, the idea of being wet is just plain unpleasant for most cats. Their coats become heavier when they’re soaked, and their fur takes time to dry, which isn’t fun for them. It can take them longer to move and run, which makes them more susceptible to predators.

The ASPCA suggests using a damp washcloth to wipe off the water from your kitty’s paws after they’re done with playing. This will help them feel better about their situation and reduce the amount of stress they experience after they’ve been drenched.

You can also teach your cat to enjoy the water, though this might be difficult in some cases. Start introducing your cat to the idea of a bath as a kitten so it becomes a regular part of their routine and doesn’t scare them.

There are some cats who can learn to enjoy being in water, including those who have received grooming and baths since kittenhood or those who have been introduced to it on their own terms, says Nelson. This is an ideal way to help your cat learn to like water and avoid the fear associated with baths.

In most cases, it’s best to wait until your cat is older and has more experience with the water before trying to teach them to like it. That’s because cats are creatures of habit, and they’re more likely to associate the water with negative emotions than positive ones.

It’s important to give your cat a chance to enjoy water as a kitten, because it can be a very important life skill. The ASPCA also recommends getting your cat used to the sound of running water so it doesn’t frighten them when you need to use the bathroom.