- Maintaining normal body temperature becomes challenging.
In nature, most cats dislike getting their fur wet because it serves as their primary source of warmth. When a cat’s fur is wet, it experiences extreme cold, similar to the discomfort one might feel by not drying their hair or body after washing in winter. While domestic cats may tolerate drying after a bath, the innate wildness and natural instincts of cats make them genetically averse to activities that lead to wet fur. Additionally, cats adapt the thickness of their fur based on the local climate, using their own experiences to determine the most suitable survival strategy. Wet fur poses a significant threat to cats in cold regions and can be fatal.
- Onset of Various Diseases
When a cat comes into contact with water, its fur becomes thoroughly wet, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to adhere and multiply. Excessive wetness compromises the resistance of the cat’s fur, making it more susceptible to serious skin diseases. In severe cases, these diseases can lead to the death of the cat. This natural aversion to getting wet is deeply ingrained in a cat’s genetic makeup.
- Loss of Awareness of the Surrounding Environment
Cats are renowned for their sensitivity to the environment, and their fur serves as a reflection of changes in their surroundings. Different hairs on a cat’s body have specialized functions; for instance, whiskers are used to detect the environment, and capillaries on the body can sense changes in airflow. When a cat’s fur is wet, it loses the ability to perceive subtle environmental changes, causing them distress and a heightened sense of insecurity.