Rehydrating dry yeast is important because pitching dry yeast directly into wort or must can result in a loss of about half the viable cells. Rehydrating in water (don't add sugar) gives the yeast a chance to rebuild their cell walls.
This process is quick and easy. There's no good reason to skip it.
@arrogantbastardale Yes, cats shorten lag time.
leedorham 2 months ago
Forgot to mention the cat requirement.
arrogantbastardale 2 months ago