Why does the cat dig when it drinks water? - briefly
Cats often exhibit the behavior of digging or pawing at water due to instinctual behaviors inherited from their wild ancestors. This action can help them to cool the water down or to aerate it, making it more appealing to drink.
Why does the cat dig when it drinks water? - in detail
Cats exhibit a variety of behaviors that can sometimes puzzle their human companions. One such behavior is the tendency to dig or paw at their water bowl while drinking. This action is not merely a quirk but is rooted in several natural and instinctive behaviors.
Firstly, it is essential to understand that cats are descendants of desert-dwelling ancestors. In the wild, water sources can be scarce, and cats have evolved to be efficient drinkers. When a cat drinks, it often uses its tongue to lap up water in a precise and rapid motion. However, this method can sometimes lead to water splashing out of the bowl, which the cat then attempts to contain by digging. This behavior is a remnant of their ancestral instincts to preserve water and prevent it from evaporating or being contaminated.
Additionally, cats have a sensitive sense of smell, and they may detect impurities or foreign substances in their water. Digging at the water can be a way for them to stir up the water, releasing any trapped odors and ensuring that the water is fresh. This action is similar to how cats might paw at their food to check for freshness or hidden threats.
Moreover, the act of digging can also be a way for cats to cool down. Cats do not sweat like humans; instead, they rely on other methods to regulate their body temperature. Paws are one of the few areas on a cat's body where sweat glands are present. By digging at the water, cats can expose their paws to the cool liquid, helping to lower their body temperature.
In some cases, the behavior might also be a sign of discomfort or dissatisfaction with the water source. Cats are particular about their drinking water and may refuse to drink from bowls that are too shallow, too deep, or made of certain materials that they find unappealing. Digging at the water can be a way for them to express their discontent or to try and make the water more accessible.
Furthermore, digging at the water can be a form of enrichment and stimulation for cats. Cats are natural hunters and explorers, and the act of digging can satisfy their instinctive need to interact with their environment. Providing a water bowl that allows for some digging can help keep cats mentally and physically active.
In summary, the behavior of cats digging at their water bowl while drinking is a multifaceted response that draws from their evolutionary history, sensory capabilities, and instinctive needs. Understanding these underlying factors can help cat owners provide better care and enrichment for their feline companions.