Cats have been our companions for thousands of years, but there’s still a lot of misinformation out there. From the belief that cats always land on their feet to the idea that they’re loners who don’t need much attention, many common “facts” about cats are actually myths.
This article will bust 13 of the most widespread cat myths.
1. Cats Always Land on Their Feet
While cats are great at righting themselves in mid-air, they don’t always land on their feet. Cats have a reflex that helps them twist their bodies when falling. But if they fall from a low height or in an awkward position, they might not have time to turn. Even when they do land on their feet, cats can still get hurt from high falls. It’s important to keep windows closed and balconies safe to protect your cat.
2. Cats Love Milk
Many people think cats love milk, but this isn’t true for all cats. Most adult cats are actually lactose intolerant. This means their bodies can’t digest milk properly. Drinking milk can give them stomach aches and diarrhea. If you want to give your cat a treat, stick to water and cat-specific foods. There are “cat milk” products that are safe for cats to drink.
3. Cats Are Loners
Cats have a reputation for being independent, but they’re not loners. Many cats enjoy company and can form strong bonds with their owners. Some cats even get along well with other pets. Cats need playtime and attention, just like dogs do. They might show affection differently, but they still crave interaction. Spending time with your cat each day helps keep them happy and healthy.
4. Cats Purr Only When Happy
Purring is often a sign of contentment, but cats purr for other reasons too. Cats might purr when they’re stressed, in pain, or even when they’re close to death. It’s thought that purring might help cats heal themselves. The vibrations from purring can help strengthen bones and heal injuries. Pay attention to your cat’s body language and other signs to understand what their purr really means.
5. Black Cats Are Bad Luck
The idea that black cats bring bad luck is just an old superstition. In fact, in some cultures, black cats are considered good luck. Black cats are just as loving and playful as cats of any other color. They often have trouble getting adopted because of this myth. If you’re thinking of getting a cat, don’t overlook black cats. They make lovely pets and deserve loving homes just like any other cat.
6. Cats Can See in Complete Darkness
While cats have excellent night vision, they can’t see in complete darkness. Cats’ eyes are designed to let in more light than human eyes. This helps them see better in low-light conditions. They also have a particular layer in their eyes that reflects light, which is why their eyes seem to glow. But in total darkness, cats are just as blind as humans. They rely on their other senses, like hearing and touch, to navigate in the dark.
7. Declawing Is Like a Nail Trim
Declawing is much more serious than a simple nail trim. It’s actually an amputation of the last bone in each of a cat’s toes. This surgery can cause long-term pain and behavior problems in cats. Many countries have banned declawing because it’s considered cruel. Instead of declawing, provide scratching posts and trim your cat’s nails regularly. There are also soft nail caps you can put on your cat’s claws to prevent scratching damage.
8. Cats Hate Water
While many cats don’t like baths, not all cats hate water. Some cat breeds, like the Turkish Van, actually enjoy swimming. Many cats are fascinated by running water and like to play with dripping faucets. If a cat doesn’t like water, it’s often because they’ve had bad experiences or aren’t used to it. You can help your cat feel more comfortable with water by introducing it slowly and positively.
9. Indoor Cats Don’t Need Vaccines
Even if your cat never goes outside, they still need vaccines. Indoor cats can be exposed to diseases through open windows, on your shoes, or from other pets. Some diseases, like rabies, are required by law in many places. Vaccines help protect your cat from serious illnesses. They also protect you and your family from diseases that can spread from cats to humans. Always follow your vet’s advice on which vaccines your cat needs.
10. Cats Can’t Be Trained
Cats may not be as eager to please as dogs, but they can definitely be trained. Many cats can learn tricks, use a toilet instead of a litter box, and even walk on a leash. The key is to use positive reinforcement and to keep training sessions short and fun. Clicker training works well with many cats. Remember that cats are individuals, so some may learn faster than others. Be patient and consistent, and you’ll be surprised at what your cat can learn.
11. Pregnant Women Can’t Have Cats
This myth comes from a genuine concern about a disease called toxoplasmosis. But getting rid of your cat isn’t necessary. Toxoplasmosis can be dangerous for unborn babies, but it’s more likely to come from undercooked meat than from cats. If you’re pregnant, have someone else clean the litter box. If you must do it yourself, wear gloves and wash your hands after. Keep your cat indoors to reduce the risk of it getting toxoplasmosis from eating infected animals.
12. Cats Don’t Need Dental Care
Just like humans, cats need dental care to stay healthy. Without proper care, cats can develop gum disease, tooth decay, and other painful problems. These issues can even lead to more serious health problems if left untreated. Brush your cat’s teeth regularly with a cat-specific toothpaste. There are also dental treats and toys that can help keep your cat’s teeth clean. Regular check-ups with the vet should include dental exams to catch problems early.
13. Cats Always Meow to Communicate
While meowing is one way cats communicate, it’s not the only way. Adult cats rarely meow to each other. They mostly meow to communicate with humans. Cats use body language, scent marking, and other vocalizations like purring and hissing to communicate with each other. If your cat is meowing a lot, they might be trying to tell you something important. Pay attention to when and where they meow to understand what they need.
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