Hank Kicked Off His Boots and Dipped His Feet in the Lake. Ziggy Had Questions.
Hank has rolled up his overalls, pulled off his boots, and dipped his bare feet into the cool, still water at the end of the dock. He wears a flat cap tipped back on his head and a plaid shirt with the sleeves pushed up, and he's turned to smile at Ziggy, who sits neatly on the weathered boards beside him with his paws tucked close. Ziggy has no intention of getting his feet wet. He gazes back at Hank with calm interest, perfectly content to enjoy the lake from a dry distance.
Even though Bengals are often curious about water, most cats prefer to choose their own terms with it, and a cat should never be pushed or dropped into a lake or pool. Cats can swim if they must, but they tire quickly and can struggle to climb out of deep water or up slick edges. If your cat spends time near docks, pools, or ponds, supervise closely and consider a well-fitted harness. Pet life jackets exist for animals that regularly go out on boats. Lake water can also carry algae or bacteria, so offering fresh water to drink is a good idea on any waterside outing.
Hank gets the cool water, Ziggy gets the warm boards, and both of them get the quiet. It's a perfectly fair split on a lazy lakeside afternoon.






