Strange behavior before drinking water

Question
I have a very active 10 month old tabby who displays some strange behavior before drinking his water. When we put his water down for him he starts to scratch at the floor like he's digging in the dirt. His scratching isn't aggressive (he doesn't use his claws)but is done at a quick pace. He also tries to stick his paws into the water at the same time. I've had cats all of my life and have never seen such behavior. We rescued him from a shelter when he was very young. He gets plenty of attention, gets to go outside throughout the day, has an older sister (2yrs), and is very healthy. Any ideas?

Thanks,

Ken H

Answer
Hi Ken,
Funny you should ask.... I have a six month old Siamese that does the EXACT same thing.  He got so bad that he was putting his paw in the water and "pulling" on the bowl, tipping water out all over my kitchen floor!  At first I didn't know what had happened!  I would come home and there was a "river" of water all over the floor and the water bowl thrown across the room.  At first I thought he and my other cats were playing and knocked it over. But I happened to be walking by one day and saw him scratch around on the floor then put his paw in the water bowl and pull it over.  I about died.... LOL.  I went to Walmart and bought a heavy pet bowl and now he can't turn it over.  He still paws at the water, but at least it stays in the dish!!  I think some cats just like water and it's like a toy.  I dunno... but at least you now know that your cat is not the only one, huh ?

God Bless,
Becky