Cats are fascinating creatures whose behavior often leaves us humans mystified. Most of us know that cats dislike water and that they avoid getting wet at all costs. It is therefore surprising to find some cats spending a lot of time around the bathtub! In this article, we explore 10 reasons why cats like bathtubs.
1. A Comfortable Space to Rest
The bathtub is a smooth surface that can be comfortable for cats to rest on. It is a stable and compact space that is easy to get in and out of, especially for agile cats. The environment can be appealing to cats, providing them with a comfortable space to rest and play.
2. Privacy and Security
In addition to being a comfortable space, the bathtub can provide privacy for cats. Cats are territorial creatures and place great importance on their personal space. The location of the bathtub within the bathroom, as well as the enclosed and compact shape of the bathtub, can provide the privacy and security that cats need. Moreover, changes in the house, rearrangements, and the presence of strangers can cause cats to become stressed out, and the bathtub may be their go-to area to relax and calm down.
3. Curiosity
Cats are naturally curious and intelligent animals. They are naturally inclined to explore their surroundings, including the more private and isolated parts of the house like the bathroom. The bathtub’s enclosure and curtain can easily pique a cat’s curiosity, and they may want to find out what is behind the closed doors or the curtain. This same curiosity may also develop a fondness for the bathtub.
4. Scent
Cats have an excellent sense of smell. They have over 200 million smell receptors, which is close to 14 times more than a human’s! Most bathtub surfaces are made of enamel or porcelain, which can easily retain various scents. Cats are attracted to the lingering scent of the various cleaning products used in the bathroom and pick up the scent of their owner on the surface of the bathtub. This makes the bathtub a comfortable spot to rest because of the familiar scent.
5. Routine
Cats are creatures of habit and thrive on routine. Some cats can easily become stressed out if there is any deviation from their daily routine. They can easily pick up on their owner’s habits and daily schedules associated with the bathtub. For instance, cats may enter the bathtub to wait for their owner because they know that the owner takes a bath or brushes their teeth at a certain time. They may also associate the owner’s bathroom use with feeding time if the owner prepares food immediately after using the bathroom.
6. Association with Their Owner
From routine, habits, and familiar scents, cats may simply associate the bathtub space with their owner. There may be a chance that they miss their owner if they have been away for a while, and the bathtub may give them a sense of security and comfort. Moreover, cats enjoy the company of their human and can follow them around for everything they do, including using the bathroom. While the owner is using the sink or the toilet, cats may remain in the bathtub to keep their owner company.
7. Thirst
Although most cats dislike water, they still need to drink. Cats may go to the tub to lick the water droplets found inside it as they find the falling water droplets on the walls of the bathtub and the dripping faucet more intriguing than their usual water bowl. Since cats aren’t heavy water drinkers, this may be enough to keep them hydrated, and they can also find waiting for a drop to fall from the faucet more entertaining.
8. They Love Water!
Cat breeds such as the Maine Coon and the Abyssinian are actually quite fond of water, contrary to popular belief. If you have such cat breeds as pets, you may find them waiting by the tub simply because they are fascinated by the water. They enjoy splashing around and watching the water drip out of the faucet and down the walls of the bathtub. If your cat is predisposed to enjoy the water, expect that they may spend a lot of time by the bathtub.
9. A Place to Cool Off
The smooth porcelain surface of the bathtub can provide a cool surface for cats, especially during the summer. On hotter days, you might find your cat cooling off in the bathtub.
10. A Source of Warmth
In contrast, the porcelain surface of the bathtub can stay warm during the colder seasons, providing a place where cats can find warmth and comfort, depending on the season and temperature at home.
Conclusion
Although cats generally dislike water and tend to avoid getting wet, some have a special attraction to bathtubs. Bathtubs can provide a safe space for cats to comfortably rest, satisfy their curiosity, and more. Whether they follow their owner to the bathroom or simply enjoy the water, the feline mind continues to work in strange ways, adding to the charm of these wonderful creatures.
