Friendship
Kitten raised by dogs loves racing with his “siblings” to the ocean
I've never seen a cat love water so much! 😻
Michael Dabu
10.06.23

Is it true that cats and dogs are natural enemies?

Rivalry between cats and dogs is often depicted in books, TV shows, or movies. But is this really true? Do cats and dogs really hate each other?

Well, animal instinct and being territorial will always kick in between these two species, however, it isn’t true that they are born enemies.

Pexels - Snapwire
Source:
Pexels - Snapwire

According to Naylabone.com:

“The majority of cats can happily coexist with a dog if they are given time to comfortably get to know each other. If a puppy and kitten are raised together, they generally will learn right away to tolerate each other, and some cats and dogs grow to be real friends, even playing and napping together.”

Cats and dogs can get along and this beautiful story is just among the many other proofs that it’s truly possible.

Everyone, meet Marlin.

YouTube Screenshot - Nothin' Fancy - Caroline Jarvis Hopkins
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Nothin' Fancy - Caroline Jarvis Hopkins

North Carolina couple Caroline Jarvis-Hopkins and her husband of two years, Mack, own a squad of 4 dogs and a cat who thinks and acts like a dog. The couple took Marlin the cat into their home when he was just 5 and a half weeks old.

For someone who loves outdoor adventures, Caroline and her husband often embark on activities outside their home. On every adventure, they’d always bring their home companions, and that, of course, includes Marlin.

YouTube Screenshot - Nothin' Fancy - Caroline Jarvis Hopkins
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YouTube Screenshot - Nothin' Fancy - Caroline Jarvis Hopkins

It doesn’t matter whether they go hunting, fishing, diving, or swimming. You might wonder if a cat like Marlin would enjoy water adventures. Well, the answer is a resounding, “yes!” The only feline from the pack doesn’t look like he’s afraid of the water, unlike most cats.

Do cats really hate water?

YouTube Screenshot - Nothin' Fancy - Caroline Jarvis Hopkins
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YouTube Screenshot - Nothin' Fancy - Caroline Jarvis Hopkins

According to Britannica, cats generally dislike water due to several factors. Firstly, their aversion may stem from the unfamiliarity of water as they evolved in dry climates with limited exposure to it. Secondly, wet fur is highly uncomfortable for cats, disrupting their grooming routine and making them less agile. The shock of falling into water can also contribute to their fear of it.

Despite this aversion, some cats are intrigued by the movement and sound of running water, engaging in playful interactions without getting fully wet. Certain domesticated breeds, like the Maine Coon, Bengal, and Turkish Van, are exceptions, as their water-resistant fur and unique characteristics make them more inclined to enjoy an occasional swim.

YouTube Screenshot - Nothin' Fancy - Caroline Jarvis Hopkins
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YouTube Screenshot - Nothin' Fancy - Caroline Jarvis Hopkins

In Marlin’s case, he’s proven to everyone that it’s possible for a cat like him to be fond of being in the water.

Come to think of it, he’s named after a type of fish.

Wikimedia Commons - White Marlin
Source:
Wikimedia Commons - White Marlin

A marlin fish is a sleek, elongated marine creature with a distinctive, spear-like snout or bill. Its body is streamlined and built for speed, and it possesses a long dorsal fin that extends forward, creating a pronounced crest.

Marlins are renowned for their swiftness in the water, but exaggerated claims about their speed are frequently found in popular literature, often stemming from unreliable or outdated reports.

YouTube Screenshot - Nothin' Fancy - Caroline Jarvis Hopkins
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YouTube Screenshot - Nothin' Fancy - Caroline Jarvis Hopkins

Perhaps the couple saw Marlin’s love for water that’s why they named him after the fish, don’t you think so too? The feline’s water-loving attitude isn’t the only adorable thing about him but also his way of thinking and living.

YouTube Screenshot - Nothin' Fancy - Caroline Jarvis Hopkins
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Nothin' Fancy - Caroline Jarvis Hopkins

Since he grew up being surrounded by a pack of dogs, Marlin now thinks and acts like a dog. He sees and treats the couple’s dogs as his siblings. Caroline and Mack couldn’t be happier with how things are inside and outside of their home sweet home.

Know more about ‘Marlin the CAT-DOG’ by watching the video below.

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