Neither water bowl nor tap: why cats dip their paws before drinking

Neither Water Bowl Nor Tap: Why Cats Dip Their Paws Before Drinking

Have you ever caught your cat nonchalantly dipping a paw into their water bowl, only to casually lick the drops off as if this were the most natural thing in the world? Maybe you’ve found your feline’s little footprints on the bathroom counter, or you’re being shamefully upstaged by your own pet as you sip from your glass—because your cat decided it made a better water source than their own bowl. If you’ve nodded along, wondering what on earth is happening, welcome to the oddly compelling universe of cats and their curious relationship with water.

Diving into Cat Water Myths (and Some Realities)

First things first: let’s drown once and for all the old belief that all cats have an innate fear of water. Many cat owners will tell you their companions not only butt in on their showers but occasionally try to join them in the bath. Some breeds, such as the Turkish Van, consider water irresistible entertainment—and won’t hesitate to take the plunge. So, where does this so-called cat-phobia come from? Turns out, it’s more about bad experiences than hard-wired fear: a tumble into the bath, an unfortunate run-in with a spray bottle, or the nightmare of a forced bath. It’s not that water’s the enemy—it’s just occasionally gotten a bad rap.

Speaking of baths, here’s a little-known truth: you really shouldn’t bathe your cat unless it’s absolutely necessary, like an accident or a health issue. Cats are already world champs at personal hygiene. Wash away that carefully groomed scent and you might spark rivalry at home, since another cat might not recognize them without their familiar smell—which, let’s face it, could mean trouble in furry paradise. If grooming is a must, powdered dry shampoo trumps a full-on soak every time.

Paw Dipping and Quirky Drinking Habits

Raise your hand if your cat dips their paw into their water before drinking—or just uses their paw to drink out of the bowl (or your own glass). You’re not alone. This behavior is surprisingly common. The reason? Cats don’t see particularly well up close, so before committing their noses to still water, they’ll dip a paw and give the liquid a gentle stir, creating little waves. This helps them better judge where the water starts, sparing them the indignity of an unexpected snout bath. Sometimes this little aquatic experiment turns into play, and—just like that—you have a water-loving feline on your hands.

Not all cats are satisfied with bowls, either. Some make a beeline for the kitchen or bathroom tap, preferring running water to still. In the wild, cats would naturally choose flowing sources, as they’re safer and less likely to harbor anything unsavory. The gentle burble of a stream is a mighty motivator (and, let’s admit it, sounds more appealing than a stale puddle).

Yet, cats are originally desert creatures—notorious for not being the world’s most enthusiastic drinkers. This can be a real concern for indoor cats that might not drink enough simply because nothing is enticing them to. While some felines remain bowl loyalists, adding a drinking fountain can boost their water intake—especially in hot weather. This little change could mean fewer health problems and less frequent (and costly!) trips to the vet.

Making Water More Appealing

When introducing your cat to a fountain, don’t start the motor immediately. Surround it with treats and a few drops of tuna juice (don’t forget to remove the filter first if you do this). Let your cat get comfy, then turn on the motor.
If your cat snubs water in a plastic bowl, don’t take it personally. Plastic is porous and can develop a slimy film cats dislike. Ceramic or stainless steel bowls are better appreciated by picky drinkers.
Bowl shape and height matter. Every cat has their own preferences, so offer a selection and let them make the call.
Where you put the bowls is crucial: never up against a wall or in a corner. Cats want to keep an eye on the room while they hydrate, not stare at a blank wall. If you’re short on space, at least leave enough room behind for your cat to sit with their back to the wall and command the room like the true royalty they are.

It’s Not About Hating Water After All

In short, the saying “a scalded cat fears cold water” doesn’t really hold up—at least not for every feline friend. Not all cats hate water; some just need a little encouragement (and perhaps a more thoughtful water setup) to stay happily hydrated. Next time your cat gives you the side-eye for your choice of bowl, just remember: sometimes, cats know exactly what they want—and they’re not shy about making a splash to get it.

Neither water bowl nor tap: why cats dip their paws before drinking