Think all cats hate water? Think again! The truth may shock you. It turns out that swimming cats are not as rare as you might think. In fact, some cats love water and can’t get enough of it. From swimming in lakes to splashing around in your shower, these 10 breeds are not only water-friendly—they’re water-loving! Curious to know which cats enjoy a swim? Keep reading to uncover the secret world of water-adoring felines!
1. Turkish Van Cat: The “Swimming Cat”
Let’s start with the most famous swimmer in the feline world: the Turkish Van cat! This breed is legendary for its love of water. So much so, it’s often called the “swimming cat.” Legend has it that these cats jumped off Noah’s Ark and swam to safety, and this love for water has been passed down through generations. Turkish Vans are known to either swim in the water or just relax in it, making them one of the rarest water-loving cats in the world.
2. Turkish Angora Cat: Playful Paws in the Water
Similar to the Turkish Van, the Turkish Angora is another breed with a fondness for water. These cats are not just adorable—they’re social and love to splash around with you. Whether it’s in the sink, shower, or even a kiddie pool, Turkish Angoras are ready to join the fun. They’ll happily jump into the shower or spill water from the sink, proving they’re one of the most playful water-loving felines around. 
3. Savannah Cat: A Splash of Adventure in Every Drop
The Savannah cat, a hybrid breed descended from the wild African serval, brings the wild outdoors into your home—and into the water! Known for their adventurous nature, these cats love to play in water, whether it’s in a bathtub or even an outdoor swimming pool. They come from a long line of cats who enjoy water, and they’ve inherited that love for splashing and swimming.
4. Bengal Cat: A Wild Heart and a Love for Water
Bengal cats, known for their stunning leopard-like appearance, are descendants of the wild Asian leopard cat. Not only are they strikingly beautiful, but they are also water enthusiasts! Bengals are notorious for seeking out water sources, whether it’s in a sink, bath, or even under sprinklers. They’re playful, curious, and never want to be left out of the fun—especially when it involves water!
5. American Shorthair Cat: A Splash of Playfulness in Every Drop
The American Shorthair is a playful and energetic breed that doesn’t shy away from water. Whether they’re playing with water in their bowl or trying to catch a drip from the sink, these cats love to interact with water. It’s no surprise that they’re often compared to dogs due to their friendly and active nature!
6. Japanese Bobtail Cat: Dive Into Fun
These cats are not only charming and energetic, but they also have a fondness for water activities. The Japanese Bobtail loves water and isn’t afraid to jump into the bath or even play in a puddle. This breed’s active personality makes them naturally curious about water, and they’ll happily spend hours splashing around.
7. Manx Cat: A Splash of Island Fun
Manx cats, hailing from the Isle of Man, are famous for their water-loving ways. These cats are known to enjoy playing in the water, especially in lakes or ponds near their home. Their affinity for water has been passed down from their island roots, and they are often seen happily splashing around in outdoor water sources.
8. Abyssinian Cat: A Water-Nurtured Heritage
Abyssinians are one of the oldest domesticated breeds, and their natural curiosity and love for water can be traced back to ancient times. Thought to have been revered by the Egyptians as “fishing cats,” Abyssinians are known to play with water and even take dips in it. Their playful nature and curiosity mean they’re always looking for new ways to engage with water!
9. Maine Coon Cat: Dive Into the Deep
Maine Coons are not only one of the largest domestic cat breeds, but they also love water. Known for their playful nature and love of adventure, Maine Coons will often splash around in water bowls, soak their toys, or even take a swim in a pool. Their fascination with water makes them unique among their feline peers.
10. Norwegian Forest Cat: The Nordic Water-Lover
The Norwegian Forest Cat, with its long, water-resistant fur, is naturally drawn to water. These cats are often seen enjoying outdoor adventures, including swimming and fishing. Their thick fur helps them stay warm in cold waters, making them perfect for aquatic escapades in nature’s elements.
Bonus: Tiger Swims, Too!
Believe it or not, even big cats like tigers love to swim! Tigers are strong swimmers and often spend time in rivers and lakes hunting or cooling off. Other big cats like jaguars and leopards also enjoy swimming, but tigers are the ultimate swimmers of the feline family.
Conclusion: It’s clear that not all cats hate water—many actually love it! From playful splashes in the sink to full-on swims in pools, these 10 cat breeds have an affinity for water that’s hard to ignore. Whether you have a Turkish Van, Bengal, or Maine Coon, your cat may just surprise you with their love of swimming. So, next time you encounter a cat near a pool or a fountain, don’t be too shocked—these feline swimmers are living their best lives in the water!
