As a cat parent, you must already know they are unique creatures. Most of the time, you don’t even know why they do certain things, such as staring at walls or sleeping with belly up. However, some of these habits are easily understandable. But, there is one such habit that is difficult to explain, and that is a cat scratching the floor before drinking water.
You are sitting in your lounge when you notice your cat heading to their water bowl. Suddenly, they start scratching the floor as if digging for something. It almost looks like the way they dig before using the litter box. Some cat owners may think their cat is about to pee near the water, but that is false. Let’s uncover the reason why cats do this peculiar behavior.
Reasons Why Cats Scratch The Floor
- Instinctive Behavior
Domestic cats were once felines living in the desert. As we all know, water is not readily available everywhere. So, these cats had to dig up the sand to search for water. Scratching the floor before drinking water may be an instinctive behavior from generations ago.
This behavior also shows when your cat is playing with its toys when they try to bury or hide them. Such an instinct comes from the era when they had to hide their resources so that it does not get into the hands of any predator. Read more if you want to learn more about vet advice on cats and dogs or even how to euthanize a dog for free.
- Not Happy with The Taste or Smell of Water
Some pet owners think that when a cat scratches the floor, it does not like the taste or smell of water. You may even notice your cats doing the same with any food that they don’t like. The same is the case with the water bowl. It can also be because the smell of the water resembles their fecal matter.
Always remember that cats have a sharp sense of hearing, smelling, and tasting.
Even if you don’t smell something, their strong noses will catch it. If this is the reason, washing the water bowl and changing it is best. Use cool and clean water for them to drink. If they continue this habit, then you can look into the option of buying a water fountain.
- Marking Territory
Scratching the floor before drinking water may also signify marking territory. It can happen in a multi-cat household. Scent glands are present around the cat’s paws that release pheromones. These pheromones are released when they knead or scratch. It may be a way of claiming the water bowl from other cats or pets in the house.
If you have only one water bowl in the house and two or more cats, try adding another bowl. You can also move the bowl to a new spot. You can also try changing the material of the water bowl. You can confirm this by observing for other signs of marking territory.
- Curiosity
Cats are naturally curious beings; anything shiny or reflective will catch their attention. Sometimes, the water may be reflecting on the floor. Reflection also comes from the steel or glass bowls onto something nearby. They may be trying to play with the light that catches their eye.
- Compulsive Behavior
Cats are very picky animals, and they can quickly dislike things. If your cats are scratching the floor around their water bowl, it may be because they do not like the water. It can also be that they dislike the water bow. Scratching the floor before drinking water may indicate discomfort that your cat does not like it. Try experimenting with a water fountain. Other options include changing the source of water.
- Habitual
Each cat is different and has different habits. Scratching the floor before drinking water may be habitual. Some cats also like to sit near their water bowl and wait for the coast to clear. So, scratching the floor may be how your cats like drinking water. Some vets suggest that cats can’t see things clearly. Pawing or scratching the floor may just be a way to see how far the bowl actually is.
Is There Anything to Worry About If My Cat Scratches Their Water Bowl?
Scratching the water bowl before drinking water is something that you can handle. However, if your cat does this consistently, it may be time to take it to the vet. It may indicate that your cat is mentally or physically under stress. If you think that scratching the floor is a sign of stress, then look for other symptoms to confirm;
- Eating less than usual.
- Yowling more than usual.
- Wanting to live alone.
- Sudden aggression.
How Do I Stop My Cat from Scratching the Floor Before Drinking Water?
If you are confident that your cat has no health issues, there is nothing to worry about. It can be a bothersome habit, but if you are tired of changing the flooring or cleaning the floor, then here are a few tips that you can use;
- If the behavior is new, think about what you have changed ever since it; it can even be a change in the water bowl. If you have, then go back to how things were before.
- Make a schedule for cleaning their water bowl. An unclean water bowl can be a growth place for bacteria, and they may not like the foul odor. Ensure you clean the water bowl every day or at least every other day.
- Increase the frequency of changing their water. You can also make a habit of changing your water every morning.
- A cat water fountain is one of the best alternatives that you can consider.
Final Thoughts
Cats are lovable and have a curious personality. They have certain odd habits you may notice them doing occasionally. Scratching the floor before drinking water is one such habit. If you are worried about why they have suddenly developed this habit, go through the abovementioned list. If you think they may have some health problems, consulting the vet is one of the best ways to find your answer.
