Your cat’s water dish is one of the most important things in her life. It’s where she gets her hydration, and it’s also a place to cool off on hot days.
If you’ve ever owned a cat, you know that they can be very particular about their water bowl. They may paw at it, dip their paw in and out, or even stick their whole head in the bowl.
So why do cats paw at the water dish? Let’s find the issues.
Why Does My Cat Dip Her Paw in the Water Bowl?
There are a few reasons why cats might dip their paw in their water dishes:
- One reason could be that the water bowl is not clean enough for the cat’s liking.
- They’re trying to get the last drops of water out.
- The cat may also be trying to get the attention of the owner so that they will refill the water bowl.
- Could be that the water bowl is not in the cat’s favorite spot.
- Another possibility is that they’re trying to move the dish closer to them so they can drink more easily.
- They could simply be playing with the water and enjoying the sensation of wetness on their paws.
- The water is too cold for your cat’s liking. Cats prefer their water to be around body temperature, so if the water in their dish is too cold, they may paw at it to try to raise the temperature.
- Another possibility is that there is something in the water that’s causing your cat discomforts, such as a piece of debris or a bug. If this is the case, your cat will likely continue to paw at the water until whatever it is has been removed.
- They could be suffering from kidney disease or another health issue that’s preventing them from being properly hydrated.
In any case, if you notice your cat pawing at their water dish more frequently than usual, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and have them checked out by a professional.
Why Does My Cat Scratch around the Water Bowl?
One of the most common questions we get from cat parents is “Why does my cat scratch around the water bowl?” While it may seem like a benign behavior, it can actually be quite harmful to your kitty.
Scratching around the water bowl can cause your cat to ingest dirt and bacteria, which can lead to gastrointestinal issues.
It can also cause your cat to develop allergies to certain materials in the bowl, such as plastic or metal.
If cats scratch around their water bowls, one theory is that they’re trying to mark their territory.
When a cat scratches, they leave behind scent glands in their paws, which act as a “signature” for other animals.
By scratching around their water bowl, they may be trying to let other cats know that this is their space. Another theory is that cats simply enjoy the sensation of scratching.
Regardless of the reason, it’s important to discourage this behavior by providing your kitty with a different type of scratching surface, such as a cardboard scratcher or toy.
Why Do Cats Paw at the Ground When Drinking Water?
The first reason is that it helps them get a better grip on the ground. This is especially important for cats who live in areas with a lot of rain or snow, as they can slip and fall if they don’t have a good grip.
The second reason is that it helps them regulate their temperature. When cats drink water, they often put their paw in the water to cool down their body temperature.
The third reason is that it helps them avoid getting wet. Cats don’t like getting their fur wet, so by pawing at the ground, they can keep most of their fur dry.
So there you have it! Three reasons why your cat may be pawing at the ground when they drink water.
His professional interests include humane education, ethics, small animal behavior, and veterinary. As a pet lover from school life, having grown up with two cats and a dog. If he isn’t spending time with his friends and family, Justin enjoys traveling. Learn more about Justin here.