Cats don’t like water because most of their ancestors lived in dry areas and had no access to water all year round. Cats don’t like water because when their hair gets wet with water, their bodies become heavier and their movements slow down. Cats don't like water because they haven't been used to contact with water since they were young, and they will shrink when they encounter water. Cats don’t like water because they will feel uncomfortable when exposed to water, and water will interfere with the cat’s sense of smell.

The ancestors of most domestic cats lived in dry areas, where there was little water, so they did not need to learn to swim, and there was no advantage if they did. Without access to water all year round, cats don’t understand water, don’t like water, and are even afraid of water.

Cats are very alert animals. Felines are very alert to potential dangers and are always in a state of fight or flight. When a cat's fur becomes wet, its body becomes heavier, which makes them less flexible and vulnerable to attack.

Cats usually do not have frequent contact with water except drinking water, and they will shrink when encountering water. Cats that have been bathed frequently since childhood, or cats that often play in water, may not be so afraid of water. Owners should never force a cat into water, as this may trigger their fight or flight response, possibly causing injury, and the cat may become wary of you and water in the future.

Cats will feel very uncomfortable after getting wet. Cats spend half their waking hours grooming themselves, so they don’t want the fruits of their labor to go to waste. Moreover, cats have numerous olfactory glands that emit pheromones for marking and communication. Water can interfere with them, especially smelly bath water and sterilized tap water.