That is because a cat’s fur can easily become waterlogged, although the top layer is water-resistant to an extent. A cat that falls into water can drown very quickly if a heavy, waterlogged undercoat drags it under.
A cat’s fur does not dry easily, and a cold skin caused by waterlogging can lead to hypothermia.
However, that is not the case with the Van cat of Turkey, found in the region of Lake Van in the east of the country. This cat does not have an undercoat, but its fur is smooth and water-resistant. Van cats delight in taking a dip in water to cool down on a hot day. The same is true of several “big cats” such as lions, tigers and jaguars.
There is also the “fishing cat” of Southeast Asia (see photo). This cat hunts in water, diving to catch fish and sometimes even attacking ducks from beneath the surface.
Domestic cats can sometimes becoming acclimatized to water in moderation. This includes show cats that have to tolerate being washed in order to look their best. And there are even cats that enjoy playing with water – although I, speaking for myself, have yet to come across one!
© John Welford
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