why do cats hate water

Cats generally hate water because their fur is not designed to repel water, making wet fur heavy, uncomfortable, and slow to dry, which reduces their agility and makes them feel vulnerable to predators. Domestic cats evolved from ancestors like the African wildcat that lived in dry climates with little exposure to large bodies of water, so they developed an aversion to water except for drinking. Additionally, water can mask a cat’s natural scent or bring unfamiliar smells that cats find unpleasant, further contributing to their dislike of water. Some cats may also fear water due to negative experiences, but certain breeds with water-resistant fur are less afraid of water and may even enjoy it.