Yes, throwing water at a cat as a punishment can be considered animal abuse. While the intent may be to discourage the cat from engaging in unwanted behavior, such actions can cause unnecessary stress, fear, and harm to the animal.
It's important to remember that positive reinforcement is a more effective and humane way to train animals. Using treats, praise, or other rewards to encourage good behavior is generally a better approach than using punitive measures. Additionally, it's essential to provide cats with an enriching environment, proper training, and outlets for their natural behaviors to prevent behavioral issues.
Animal abuse is taken seriously in many jurisdictions, and laws are in place to protect animals from cruelty and mistreatment. If you are having difficulty with your cat's behavior, consider seeking guidance from a veterinarian or an animal behaviorist who can provide you with effective and humane training methods. Remember, patience and understanding are key when working with animals.