While some cats do enjoy swimming, it is commonly known that most have an extreme aversion to water. But what makes it so distasteful to these furry creatures and are there ways to help them get over their fear? When it comes to bath time, it can be challenging to try to work with the cat who can’t stand being wet. Bar-King Dog Kennel, a pet grooming service located in Keaau, HI, shares some helpful information about cats and water.

Cats & Water

An aversion to water is something that has been bred into many cats. The ancestors of the modern house cat instinctively knew about predators in rivers and ponds and understood that it was wiser to stay away from them. But other big cats living in warm climates have taken advantage of a swimming hole on a hot afternoon. Depending on their ancestry, your cats may be more or less inclined toward water.

Certain assumptions and inadvertent training on the part of pet owners can reinforce a cat’s distaste for water. Because cats don’t often need bathing because of self-grooming, they might go for months without touching water except to drink it. But on those rare occasions when your cat needs a bath, you might find it difficult to get your cat to cooperate.

Surviving Bath Time

If cat owners shield their pets from water, it can help train a cat to dislike it, but there are ways you can gradually acclimate them to the idea of bath time during pet grooming. Start your cat young and use only room temperature water. Start with a washcloth and graduate to slowly pouring water over your cat while talking gently. By gradually introducing your cat to the bath and praising them throughout the process, you can both survive bath time.

If you’re looking for a reliable pet grooming service, Bar-King Dog Kennel works with both dogs and cats to keep them fresh and clean. They also offer a pet boarding service for those times when you need to head out of town. For more information about cat kennels and more, call them today at (808) 966-8733 or visit their website to learn more.