If you’ve seen your Maine Coon dipping its paw in their water bowl or having a splash fest in the sink, you are not alone. Maine Coons, unlike most cat breeds, have a fascination with water.
But what’s the reason for this strange behavior?
Let’s dive into the top 6 reasons why these gentle giants love water, breaking down the facts and reasons why they love it so much compared to their counterparts.
1. Built for Wet Weather
Maine Coons come from the cold, snowy state of Maine, where the winters are long and wet. Over time, these snow cats developed heavy, water-resistant fur that protects them against the elements.
Strikingly different from the fur on most house cats, Maine Coon’s fur has a dense layer underneath (the undercoat) which allows the Maine Coon cat to stay warm, while the longer tufted guard hairs keep their fur dry when they face wet conditions.
Maine Coons do not mind a splash of water or two when it comes to playing in water, in fact, they usually jump right in as their fur does not absorb water as easily as most breeds’ fur!
2. They Have a Water History
Some people trace the Maine Coons’ history to the Norwegian Forest Cat, who live in some of the world’s wettest environments.
Others speak more to the cats themselves, having been ship cats, who lived as the practical female cats who traveled on boats with the sailors to learn the ways of water as an infant, (and this explains their comfort level in their surroundings).
They most certainly would have found themselves spending time by rivers, lakes, or even oceans. These habits supposedly call the Maine Coons to a level of instinct.
3. They’re Just Plain Curious
If you’ve owned a Maine Coon, you know they are extremely intelligent and loving and are always in the mood for an adventure. Running water, dripping faucets, and even puddles seem to just intrigue them.
They like to bat in the water with their paws and try to catch the droplets, and some even join their owner in the shower! For Maine Coons, water isn’t a scary thing – it’s interesting. It darnles, it sparkles, it makes neat sounds.
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4. Water Means Playtime
Maine Coons are all known for their playful spirit, even in their adult lives. Water is just another facet of playtime.
You may catch your cat dipping their paws in the water bowl, splashing in the sink or tub, and chasing raindrops or water droplets down the bathtub.
Some Maine Coons like to swim! To them, water is just another “toy” to play with.
5. It’s in Their Instincts
Historically, Maine Coons had to be excellent hunters in order to survive. In nature, moving water is generally fresher and safer, and those instincts will have them looking for moving water.
That’s why you’ll frequently find them drinking from a dripping faucet or even the toilet (sorry, gross), and their instincts will trigger them to “test” the water with their paws similarly to how they would test a stream or river in nature.
6. They Enjoy Keeping Cool and Clean
Water is not just entertaining– it’s utilitarian. For most Maine Coons, the fun of splashing around in water is also a way to cool off on a hot day. Some seem to actually use the water for cleaning their paws and/or face.
And given their big bushy tail and thick coat can collect some dirt and grime, a little added water grooming is probably a great way for them to stay clean, too.
Maine Coon Owner Observations
- Many Maine Coon owners say their cats like to sit by the shower, get into the bathtub, or even help clean the dishes.
- Some Maine Coons are really fascinated by fish tanks or tend to enjoy watching water fountains.
- If you leave a glass of water unattended, don’t be surprised if your Maine Coon sticks his paw in your water before he takes a drink!
Final Thoughts
Maine Coons are a unique breed with a long history and a curious and playful personality. Their affinity for water is a unique combination of their different coats, their naturally curious spirit, and their wild ancestors surviving in harsh conditions.
If you are lucky to have a Maine Coon, allow him to be a cat and embrace him for his odd and quirky behaviors with water.
Ultimately it’s what makes him who he is, and you can’t help but love that!
