Do Bengal cats like water? This is a question that many people have asked, and the answer may surprise you.
Bengals are known for being energetic and playful animals, but does that include a love of water?
In this blog post, we will explore the answer to that question and take a look at some of the surprising things Bengals enjoy doing!
Do Bengal Cats Like Water?
Unlike many other breeds of cat, Bengal cats do like water, and you’ll often see them playing and splashing around in pools and baths. Bengals are also known to jump in the shower with their owners if the bathroom door is left open.
Why Do Bengal Cats Like Water More Than Other Cats?
There are a couple of reasons as to why Bengals like water more than other cats. One reason is that their ancestors, the Asian leopard cat, used to live near rivers and streams, so they were more accustomed to being around water.
The Asian leopard would stick their paw in the water sources before drinking, as well as having a swim. This trait and love for water is then passed down to Bengal cats.
Another reason why Bengal cats love water is due to their characteristics as a breed. Bengal cats are extremely energetic and playful, and are often described as having a dog-like personality.
You’ll often see dogs having a splash in pools and playing games such as fetch. Bengals love these same activities, and would actually make a great companion to a dog, and a great addition to your home if you have young children.
Do all Bengals love water?
Although most Bengals will love having a splash in water, not every Bengal will like water, and some will even hate it. Why is this?
It simply comes down to the cats personality. Every breed of cat is known for their specific traits.
For example, the Ragdoll is known for being very affectionate and easy-going. The Maine Coon is known for it’s intelligence and calm temperament.
But not every cat within that breed is going to be exactly the same. Just like humans, each and every cat has their own unique personality.
So although Bengals are known for their playful nature and love of water, you may get a Bengal who is terrified of water.
Why Do Bengal Cats Hate Water?
There are a number of reasons why a Bengal may hate water. If your Bengal is hesitant around water, here are the possible reasons why.
1. Dislike The Sensation Of Water
It could be that they simply don’t like the sensation of water on their fur. Cats are notoriously lean creatures who are particular about their grooming.
2. The Water Smells Bad
A cats sense of smell is 14 times better than that of a humans. With the ability to smell 200 million odor sensors, compared to just 5 million from a human.
So if something has got into the water causing it to smell, you can clearly see why a cat would be hesitant to go near it.
Tap water also contains many chemicals which cannot be smelt by a human, but a cat can clearly pick up on these smells.
3. A Bad Experience With Water
A Bengal may be afraid of water due to being traumatized from a bad past experience.
For example, if they were once caught in a rain storm and got wet, they may associate being near water with feeling scared or uncomfortable.
What To Do If Your Bengal Hates Water
If your Bengal hates water, there’s no need to force them into it. Some cats are just never going to enjoy taking a dip in the pool. And that’s okay!
As long as they’re healthy and happy, that’s all that matters.
Can Bengal Cats Swim
Yes, Bengal cats can swim, and are actually very strong swimmers in comparison to other breeds. Believe it or not, all cats have a natural ability to swim.
Although most cats hate water, if they accidentally fell into a body of water, they would instinctively know what to do, and automatically begin to paddle.
When it comes to a Bengal, not only do they love water due to their natural instincts from the Asian leopard, but they are also very athletically built with powerful muscles.
This gives them the ability to swim extremely well. Although this is the case, not every single Bengal is going to be great at swimming, especially if they have never been in water before.
If your Bengal enters the water, they should always be monitored and never left alone.
Do Bengal Cats Like Baths?
Just like with swimming, not all Bengals love baths. In fact, some may even hate them!
This is due to the reasons the we discussed in a section above on why Bengals may hate water.
On the other hand, some Bengal owners have found that their cats absolutely love bath time!
It really just depends on your individual cat. If you’re unsure if they’ll enjoy it or not, start by giving them a small bath and see how they react.
If they seem to like it, go ahead and give them a longer bath next time.
And if they don’t seem too thrilled about it, maybe save bathing for special occasions only.
Will Young Cats Grow Out of Playing in Water?
Many first time Bengal owners wonder if their Bengal kitten will ever stop playing in water as they develop into an adult cat.
The answer is no! It doesn’t matter what age your Bengal is, the breed in general is very energetic and playful by nature which means they will love playing in water, regardless of age.
Even adult Bengal cats will enjoy a splash in a kids paddling pool, jump in the shower with you, and even try to play with water in the sink.
It’s all part of their fun and playful nature that we love so much.
So if you’re wondering whether your Bengal cat will ever outgrow playing in water, the answer is no! They’ll enjoy it just as much as a kitten.
Safety When Playing in Water
Hot Water
If you are running a hot bath or have hot water in the sink when cleaning the dishes, it’s important to make sure your Bengal stays away from the water.
They will be attracted to water but will not know it’s hot. This can cause nasty burns if it touches a Bengal, which may resort to a trip to the vets.
Toilet Water
You may think a cat would be deterred by the nasty smell of a toilet. Although this is usually the case, you will always get some Bengals who will still be attracted to toilet water.
Toilets are full of all kinds of nasty germs, so it’s important to to ensure you keep the toilet seat down at all times. Apart from when you are using it yourself obviously!
Where can Bengal cats swim?
Rainwater
Fresh rainwater from the sky, and even collected in a container is perfectly safe for a Bengal to play in.
Just ensure not to collect rainwater from the ground as it could potentially contain germs, and/or toxic chemicals.
Pools
A chlorine-free pool is safe for a Bengal cat to swim in. Chlorine can damage your cat’s fur and lead to skin problems such as infections.
Shallow pools are also a safer option to prevent the risk of drowning.
Where can’t Bengal cats swim?
Puddles
As previously mentioned, rainwater in the form of puddles are dangerous because they are a breeding ground for bacteria, as well as the added risk of the cat consuming the water which could cause sickness and diarrhea.
Lakes and Ponds
The problem with natural bodies of water is that they often contain parasites and other harmful microorganisms which can make your cat very sick.
There is also the risk of drowning, so it’s best to keep your Bengal away from these types of water bodies.
Seawater
Seawater is major risk because not all seawater is clean. Seawater can potentially contain human waste and pollution, as well as the risk of salt intoxication.
A Bengal could safely swim in the water but it’s just not worth the risk.
Do Bengal Cats Like Water Conclusion
Do Bengal Cats Like Water? Yes, Bengals love playing in water and are one of the best breeds for swimming.
They have a natural affinity for aquatic activity and will often spend hours playing in their water dish or chasing toys around in the bathtub.
Some Bengals even like to drink from running taps- just be sure to give them plenty of fresh water to drink, too!
