Unusual WAYS Your Cat DISPLAYS Their Love Of Water

Maine Coons are often noted for their unique affinity for water, which sets them apart from most other cat breeds. While many domestic cats avoid water or show a fear of it, Maine Coons are one of the few cat breeds that are often drawn to it!

This distinct characteristic has earned them the reputation of being “water-loving” cats. However, it’s important to note that not every Maine Coon will display a love for water, and each cat has its preferences.

Signs They Like Water

Here are the key signs that your Maine Coon may have an affection for water:

1. Fascination With Running Water

Maine Coons are often drawn to running water, such as faucets, sinks, or even fountains.

If your Maine Coon frequently watches the water flow, taps at the stream with their paws, or even tries to drink directly from a running tap, this is a clear sign that they are intrigued by water.

This happens because, in the wild, Maine Coons were known to be excellent hunters and may have historically lived near rivers or lakes where fresh, running water was plentiful.

Their instinct to engage with running water likely comes from this natural history.

2. Playing In Water

One of the most obvious signs that a Maine Coon likes water is if they enjoy playing in it. This can include:

• Dipping their paws in a water bowl
• Swatting at water droplets
• Splashing in the sink or bathtub

Maine Coons may enjoy splashing and pawing at the water because it mimics their natural hunting behavior, where they use their paws to catch prey or interact with objects in their environment.

3. Swimming Or Wading In Water

Some Maine Coons will get into a body of water, whether it’s a bathtub, pool, or even a lake, and enjoy swimming or wading. T

hey might not immediately dive in, but they often show curiosity and comfort when in the water, compared to other cats who may avoid it at all costs.

This happens because historically they were bred in harsh conditions, where they needed to be able to swim across rivers and lakes to hunt or to escape predators.

This practical skill and tolerance for water became ingrained in their genetics, allowing them to develop a comfort around it.

4. Enjoyment Of Bathtubs

If your Maine Coon enjoys sitting in a bathtub, whether it’s empty or filled with a little water, it’s another sign that they have a positive association with water.

They may even watch as you run the water and show interest in getting into the tub themselves!

This happens because bathtubs provide a contained space where water is easy to access. For some Maine Coons, this offers a secure, quiet place to observe or play with water.

This behavior is commonly observed in Maine Coons who have been introduced to water from a young age.

5. Pawing Or Dipping In Water Bowls

Unlike most cats, Maine Coons are more likely to dip their paws into water bowls before drinking. They may do this as part of their exploratory behavior, often dipping their paw and then licking it or just pawing at the water for fun.

The Maine Coon’s strong hunting instincts often lead them to use their paws to explore objects in their environment. This behavior is similar to how they might “test” an object or prey in the wild. The water serves as a way to explore and interact with their environment.

6. Drinking From Unconventional Water Sources

Maine Coons might show a preference for drinking from more “natural” or unconventional water sources, like:

• Toilets
• Streams
• Fountains
• Buckets

They may even take a few sips from a faucet if left on!

This happens because their instinct to seek fresh, moving water is tied to the idea that running water is safer and cleaner than stagnant water.

This behavior is a throwback to their history of living near rivers and lakes, where fresh water is constantly moving.

7. Playful Behavior With Water Toys

If your Maine Coon enjoys toys that involve water, e.g. floating balls, or even playing with a water fountain this is a sign they have a natural interest in water. They may even playfully bat at the water, chasing the movement.

Maine Coons are playful and love engaging with stimulating activities. Water-based toys appeal to their curiosity, mimicking the movement of small animals or prey that they would chase in the wild.

8. Relaxing In Water

In rare cases, Maine Coons may relax in water, laying down in a shallow pool or soaking in the sink or bathtub. This behavior is uncommon but can happen if the cat feels comfortable and secure in the environment.

This behavior is more likely to be seen in Maine Coons who were introduced to water at an early age or have had positive experiences with water. They may associate water with comfort or a pleasurable experience.

Why Do They Like Water?

The attraction to water in Maine Coons is believed to stem from their history and genetics.

These cats were originally bred in the cold, harsh climate of Maine, where they would have had to interact with bodies of water for hunting and survival. Over time, this natural affinity has become a part of their breed’s traits.

1. Historical And Genetic Background

The Maine Coon’s history as a working cat in the cold, wet climates of Maine has led to their natural affinity for water. They were likely exposed to bodies of water from a young age and developed the ability to swim and navigate through it.

2. Strong Hunting Instincts

As natural hunters, Maine Coons are highly intelligent and curious. Water, especially moving water, is often associated with prey or interesting scents in the wild, so they are instinctively drawn to it.

3. Exploratory Nature

Maine Coons are known for being inquisitive and social cats. Their fascination with water often stems from their desire to explore and interact with their surroundings. They may view water as an object to investigate or manipulate with their paws.

4. Comfort With Water Exposure

Unlike many cats that are afraid of water, Maine Coons are often more tolerant of getting wet, thanks to their thick fur, which is water-resistant. Their long, bushy tails also help them maintain balance when swimming or wading.

5. Intelligence And Problem Solving

Maine Coons are known for their high intelligence. They may be drawn to water simply because they find it interesting or puzzling.

This breed has been known to figure out how to operate water fountains or tap faucets, indicating that they find the water intriguing enough to interact with.