Did you ever think cats hated water? Think again! While most felines will leap away from a puddle faster than you can say “splish-splash,” a few breeds break all the rules—some even dive right in. Get ready to meet seven amazing cat breeds that don’t just tolerate water, they actually love it! From bathtub swimmers to garden hose chasers, these curious kitties are full of surprises. Scroll through to discover what makes these water-loving felines so fascinating, and maybe you’ll find your new favorite breed!
1. Turkish Van: The “Swimming Cat” Superstar
The Turkish Van is practically a legend when it comes to water. Nicknamed the “swimming cat,” this breed is famous for its love of lakes, pools, and even bathtubs. With their water-resistant coats and playful personalities, Turkish Vans are known to leap into fountains or wade into ponds without a second thought. Owners often spot them paddling around like little otters, and it’s not uncommon to catch a Turkish Van chasing droplets in the sink. This breed’s history traces back to the cool lakes of Turkey, where they evolved to be agile swimmers. If you dream of a cat that’s happy to join you for a splash, the Turkish Van is your perfect match!
2. Bengal: The Wildcat With a Splashy Side
Bengals are best known for their exotic, leopard-like spots, but did you know they also have a wild love for water? These energetic cats are always up for an adventure, and water play is no exception. Many Bengal owners report their cats jumping right into showers or playing in running faucets. Their muscular bodies and high intelligence make them natural explorers, and water is just another playground for them. If you set up a shallow pool or let them watch the fish tank, a Bengal will be first in line to investigate. It’s like having a mini jungle cat who just happens to love getting wet!
3. Maine Coon: Gentle Giants Who Can’t Resist Water
Maine Coons may look like big, fluffy lions, but beneath all that fur lies a playful water lover. Their thick, water-resistant coats make them perfect for splashing around without getting soaked. Many Maine Coon owners catch their cats dipping paws into water bowls or even “fishing” toys out of the sink. Their fascination with water might come from their origins in the cold, damp climates of New England. Whether it’s chasing drops from a leaky tap or pawing at the bathtub, these gentle giants bring a whole new meaning to “curiosity killed the cat”—except, in this case, it just got them a little wet!
4. Abyssinian: The Curious Water Explorer
The Abyssinian is a bundle of curiosity wrapped in a sleek, ticked coat, and that curiosity extends to water. These cats are known for their endless energy and love of exploration. Don’t be surprised if your Abyssinian hops into the shower with you or splashes around in a freshly filled sink. Their agile, slim bodies allow them to scamper across wet surfaces with ease, and their playful personalities mean they’re always looking for something new to try. Watching an Abyssinian interact with water is like watching a mischievous child discover a new toy—it’s pure, contagious joy.
5. Norwegian Forest Cat: Norse Legends and Water Play
With a history steeped in Norse mythology, the Norwegian Forest Cat is a true adventurer at heart. Their dense, water-repellent fur once protected them on Viking ships, so it’s no surprise they aren’t shy around water today. These majestic cats are often seen dipping their paws into bowls or playing in garden puddles. Their natural curiosity and bold spirit make them eager to explore every corner of their environment—including the wet ones! If you want a cat that channels the spirit of ancient seafarers and isn’t afraid to get its paws wet, the Norwegian Forest Cat is a perfect pick.
6. Japanese Bobtail: Playful Puddle Jumpers
With their iconic pom-pom tails and bright personalities, Japanese Bobtails are already attention-grabbers. But there’s more: they’re also surprisingly fond of water! Often seen splashing in shallow bowls or chasing water streams from a faucet, these cats turn any water source into a playground. Their playful, outgoing nature means they’re always up for a new experience, and water seems to bring out their silliest side. In Japanese folklore, these cats are said to bring good luck—so maybe a little water play will bring extra joy to your home!
7. Savannah Cat: Exotic Looks, Aquatic Thrills
Savannah cats are a stunning blend of domestic feline and African serval, and their sense of adventure knows no bounds—including water. These agile, athletic cats have been known to leap into pools, chase streams from hoses, and even join their humans for a swim. Their wild ancestry gives them a fearless streak, and water is just another fascinating element to explore. If you want a cat that’s as bold as it is beautiful, and who might surprise you by joining you for a dip, the Savannah is a breed to watch.
8. Turkish Angora: Elegant Dippers With Flair
Don’t be fooled by the Turkish Angora’s silky, regal appearance. Beneath that elegant fluff is a playful spirit that’s irresistibly drawn to water. Turkish Angoras have a long history of splashing in fountains or perching on the edge of the tub to paw at bubbles. Their fine, single-layer coats dry quickly, making water play less of a hassle for them. If you’re looking for a cat that blends sophistication with a mischievous streak, the Turkish Angora is a delightful surprise.
9. Manx: Tailless Wonders With a Taste for Water
Manx cats might be famous for their adorable lack of tails, but they’re also known for their love of water. These sturdy, playful felines often find joy in anything that splashes or drips. Some Manx cats even enjoy swimming, thanks to their powerful hind legs and fearless personalities. Their fascination with water bowls and puddles is legendary among cat lovers. If you want a cat that’s quirky from head to… well, tailbone, the Manx will keep you entertained with their aquatic antics.
10. Siamese: Vocal Swimmers With a Curious Twist
Siamese cats are famous for their striking blue eyes and chatty personalities, but their curiosity doesn’t stop at conversation. Many Siamese cats love to paw at running water or play in shallow sinks. Some have even been known to climb into the bath with their owners, making for a truly memorable splash session. Their playful, sociable nature makes water play just another way to bond with their favorite humans. For a cat that loves to “talk” and isn’t afraid to get wet, the Siamese is a classic choice.
11. Sphynx: Bare-Skinned Bath Enthusiasts
The Sphynx may lack fur, but they more than make up for it with their bold personalities—and unexpected love of water. Many Sphynx cats actually need regular baths to keep their skin clean, and most of them seem to enjoy it! Their warm, suede-like skin and curious nature make bath time a fun event rather than a dreaded chore. Don’t be surprised if your Sphynx hops into the sink or joins you in the shower. It’s almost like these cats were born to break every cat stereotype!
12. American Shorthair: Classic Cool Meets Water Play
The American Shorthair is as classic as apple pie, but there’s more than meets the eye. These adaptable, laid-back cats are often curious about running water and might dip their paws into aquariums or water bowls. While not all American Shorthairs are full-blown swimmers, many seem to be fascinated by the movement and sound of water. Their easygoing personalities make them open to new experiences, and a little water play is just another way for them to have fun.
13. Chartreux: Blue-Coated Water Chasers
With their plush blue coats and gentle smiles, Chartreux cats are a French treasure with a secret: they enjoy water! Owners often find Chartreux cats batting at droplets from faucets or peering curiously into the shower. Their thick, water-resistant fur keeps them comfortable during water play, and their calm demeanor means they’re not easily startled by a splash. If you want a cat that combines calmness with a touch of aquatic curiosity, the Chartreux makes a charming companion.
14. Cornish Rex: Curly Coats and Water Tricks
The Cornish Rex is instantly recognizable by its soft, wavy fur and slender frame. These lively cats are also known for their love of water-based fun. Whether it’s chasing bubbles during bath time or fishing toys out of the sink, Cornish Rexes make water play look like an art form. Their short, curly coats dry quickly, so there’s little fuss after a splash session. If you want a cat that’s quirky, energetic, and always up for a water adventure, the Cornish Rex is a perfect fit.
15. Scottish Fold: Adorable Ears, Unexpected Swimmers
Scottish Folds are famous for their sweet, round faces and folded ears, but here’s a surprise—they often love water! These gentle, playful cats are known to dip their paws into water bowls or chase streams from faucets. Some even enjoy a gentle bath or playing in shallow puddles. Their curiosity and affectionate nature make them eager to try new things, and water seems to bring out an extra dose of playfulness in this already lovable breed.
16. Ocicat: Spotted Swimmers With a Wild Side
Ocicats may look like miniature wildcats, but they’re actually affectionate, playful, and surprisingly fond of water. Many Ocicats will happily chase water streams from hoses, play in the sink, or bat at floating toys in a shallow tub. Their athletic builds and bold personalities mean they’re always looking for a new challenge, and water provides endless entertainment. If you want a cat that’s as fearless as it is fun, the Ocicat will keep you on your toes—and maybe a little wet!
17. Siberian: Fluffy Adventurers With Splash Appeal
The Siberian cat is a fluffy powerhouse, built for the snowy forests of Russia—but don’t let that fool you. These cats have a thick, water-resistant triple coat that lets them handle water play with ease. Many Siberians love splashing in sinks, playing with dripping taps, or even joining their humans in the shower. Their playful, adventurous spirit makes water just another exciting element to explore. If you dream of a cat that’s as at home in the water as it is on a snowy windowsill, the Siberian is a magical choice.
18. Devon Rex: Elfin Looks, Water Mischief
With their oversized ears and pixie-like faces, Devon Rexes are impossible to ignore—and so is their love of water. These playful cats are known for dipping their paws into water bowls, chasing droplets, and even joining in at bath time. Their short, curly coats dry quickly, making water play less of a hassle. Devon Rexes are natural entertainers, and a little water just adds to their list of favorite tricks. For a quirky companion who’s always up for a splash, the Devon Rex is pure fun.
19. Egyptian Mau: Spotted Beauties With River Roots
Egyptian Maus are elegant, athletic, and carry the mystique of ancient royalty. But did you know they’re also drawn to water? With a history that stretches back to the banks of the Nile, it’s no surprise these cats enjoy a splash. Owners often spot Maus dipping their paws into water bowls or leaping onto wet surfaces without hesitation. Their fast reflexes and playful nature make water play a natural fit. If you want a cat that channels the spirit of ancient Egypt and isn’t afraid of getting wet, the Egyptian Mau is a captivating choice.
20. Ragdoll: Laid-Back Water Watchers
Ragdolls are famous for their soft, floppy bodies and gentle personalities, but water can bring out a surprising spark in them. While not all Ragdolls swim, many are fascinated by moving water and will spend ages watching the faucet or batting at droplets. Their calm, trusting nature means they’re less likely to panic around water, and some even enjoy a gentle bath. For a cat that combines chill vibes with a hint of aquatic curiosity, the Ragdoll is a sweet and soothing choice.
21. Pixiebob: Wild Looks, Water Games
Pixiebobs are known for their wild appearance and bobbed tails, but they’re also playful water lovers at heart. Many Pixiebobs enjoy dipping their paws into water bowls, playing in puddles, or even joining their humans for a swim. Their adventurous spirit and sturdy build make them natural athletes, and water is just another playground to explore. If you’re looking for a cat that combines wild looks with a love of water games, the Pixiebob will keep you endlessly entertained.
23. Exotic Shorthair: Plush Paws and Water Joy
Exotic Shorthairs are the teddy bears of the cat world—round faces, plush fur, and big, expressive eyes. But don’t let their cuddly appearance fool you; many Exotics have a hidden love for water. Owners often find them playing in water bowls, watching the shower, or even splashing in the tub. Their easygoing personalities make them open to new experiences, and water play is just one more way they show their silly side. For a cat that’s soft on the outside and adventurous on the inside, the Exotic Shorthair is a perfect fit.
24. Singapura: Tiny Troublemakers With a Splashy Streak
Singapura cats are the smallest of all cat breeds, but their personalities are larger than life! These playful, bold cats are often fascinated by running water and may even jump into the sink to investigate. Their curiosity and mischievous streak make water play an exciting challenge. Watching a Singapura chase water droplets is like watching a tiny, determined explorer tackle the world—one splash at a time. If you want a cat that never lets size get in the way of adventure, the Singapura is a pint-sized powerhouse.
25. Bombay: Black Beauties With Water Wonder
Bombay cats are sleek, shiny, and resemble miniature panthers, but they also have an unexpected fascination with water. Many Bombays love to play in the sink, bat at dripping faucets, or even join their humans in the bath. Their playful, bold personalities make water play just another adventure. If you’re looking for a cat that’s elegant, mysterious, and always up for a splash, the Bombay delivers beauty and surprise in one adorable package.
Which of these cats would you love to meet for a splashy playdate?
Suhail Ahmed is a passionate digital professional and nature enthusiast with over 8 years of experience in content strategy, SEO, web development, and digital operations. Alongside his freelance journey, Suhail actively contributes to nature and wildlife platforms like Feline Fam, where he channels his curiosity for the Feline into engaging, educational storytelling.
With a strong background in managing digital ecosystems — from ecommerce stores and WordPress websites to social media and automation — Suhail merges technical precision with creative insight. His content reflects a rare balance: SEO-friendly yet deeply human, data-informed yet emotionally resonant.
Driven by a love for discovery and storytelling, Suhail believes in using digital platforms to amplify causes that matter — especially those protecting Earth’s biodiversity and inspiring sustainable living. Whether he’s managing online projects or crafting wildlife content, his goal remains the same: to inform, inspire, and leave a positive digital footprint.
