Cats are wonderful companions that can bring joy and comfort to our lives. However, there are also many myths and misconceptions about pets that can lead to confusion, frustration, or even harm. In this article, we will bust 10 common cat myths and reveal the truth about cats. We will cover topics such as health, behavior, diet, grooming, training, and more. Whether you are a new or experienced cat owner, or just curious about cats, you will find this article informative and helpful.
10 Myths and Facts About Cats
Cats are the second most popular pet in the world, with over 600 million of them living with humans. They are elegant, curious, and independent animals that can charm us with their grace and personality. However, there are also many myths and misconceptions about cats that can affect how we view, treat, and care for them. Here are 10 common myths and facts about cats that you need to know.
Myth 1: Cats are aloof and don’t need human attention
Fact: Cats are not aloof, but they are more selective and subtle in expressing their affection than dogs. Cats have different ways of showing their love and attachment to humans, such as rubbing, purring, kneading, head-butting, grooming, or sleeping with them. Cats also have different preferences and needs for human attention, depending on their personality, breed, and socialization. Some cats may enjoy being petted, cuddled, or played with, while others may prefer to be left alone or observe from a distance. Therefore, it is important to respect your cat’s individuality and boundaries, and not force your attention on them.
Myth 2: Cats always land on their feet
Fact: Cats have an amazing ability to twist their bodies and balance themselves in mid-air, which helps them land on their feet most of the time. However, this does not mean that cats are immune to injuries or falls. Cats can still suffer from broken bones, internal bleeding, or organ damage if they fall from a high place or at a bad angle. Therefore, it is advisable to keep your cat indoors or prevent them from accessing dangerous heights, such as balconies, windows, or roofs.
Myth 3: Cats have nine lives
Fact: Cats do not have nine lives, but they do have a reputation for being resilient and surviving difficult situations. The origin of this myth is unclear, but it may have something to do with the ancient Egyptians, who worshiped cats and believed that they had a connection to the afterlife. The number nine may also be related to the sacredness of the number three in many cultures, and the multiplication of three by three to signify the ultimate power or luck. However, in reality, cats have only one life, and they need proper care and protection to live it fully and healthily.
Myth 4: Cats hate water
Fact: Cats do not hate water, but they have different reactions and tolerances to it. Some cats may dislike water because they have never been exposed to it, or because they have a negative association with it, such as being bathed or sprayed. Other cats may enjoy water because they have a natural curiosity, or because they belong to a breed that has a history of living near water, such as the Turkish Van or the Maine Coon. Therefore, it is possible to find cats that like to swim, play, or drink from water sources, such as fountains, faucets, or bowls.
Myth 5: Cats are nocturnal
Fact: Cats are not nocturnal, but they are crepuscular, which means that they are most active during dawn and dusk. This is because cats are natural predators, and they have adapted to hunt when their prey is most available and when their vision is most advantageous. Cats can also adjust their sleeping and waking cycles to match their human companions, or to suit their environment and lifestyle. Therefore, cats can sleep or be awake at any time of the day or night, depending on their individual needs and preferences.
Myth 6: Cats can see in the dark
Fact: Cats cannot see in complete darkness, but they can see better than humans in low-light conditions. Cats have a larger pupil, a higher number of rods, and a reflective layer behind their retina, which allow them to capture more light and enhance their vision in the dark. However, cats still need some amount of light to see, and they cannot distinguish colors or details as well as humans. Therefore, cats rely on their other senses, such as hearing, smell, and touch, to navigate and hunt in the dark.
Myth 7: Cats are fine on their own
Fact: Cats are not fine on their own, but they need human care and companionship to thrive. Cats are social animals that form bonds with their human family, and they can suffer from loneliness, boredom, or stress if they are left alone for too long or too often. Cats also need regular feeding, watering, grooming, cleaning, and veterinary check-ups to maintain their health and well-being. Therefore, it is not advisable to leave your cat alone for more than a day, and to provide them with enough toys, enrichment, and attention when you are away.
Myth 8: Cats always purr when they are happy
Fact: Cats do not always purr when they are happy, but they can also purr when they are in pain, stressed, or sick. Purring is a way of communication and self-regulation for cats, and it can have different meanings and functions depending on the context and the individual cat. Purring can indicate contentment, relaxation, or pleasure, but it can also indicate anxiety, fear, or discomfort. Purring can also help cats heal themselves, as the low-frequency vibrations can stimulate blood flow, reduce inflammation, and promote bone growth. Therefore, it is important to look at the whole situation and behavior of the cat, and not assume that purring always means happiness.
Myth 9: Cats are lactose intolerant
Fact: Cats are lactose intolerant, but they can tolerate small amounts of dairy products. Lactose is a type of sugar that is found in milk and other dairy products, and it requires an enzyme called lactase to digest it. Cats have lactase when they are kittens, but they lose it as they grow up and stop drinking their mother’s milk. Therefore, most adult cats cannot digest lactose, and they can experience diarrhea, vomiting, or other digestive problems if they consume too much dairy. However, some cats may still enjoy the taste of dairy, and they can have small amounts of low-lactose products, such as cheese or yogurt, as an occasional treat.
Myth 10: Cats and dogs are natural enemies
Fact: Cats and dogs are not natural enemies, but they can coexist peacefully or even become friends. Cats and dogs have different evolutionary histories, communication styles, and body languages, which can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts if they are not familiar with each other. However, if they are exposed to each other from a young age, or gradually and positively introduced to each other as adults, they can learn to respect, tolerate, or even like each other. Of course, this also depends on the individual personalities and preferences of the cats and dogs involved, and some may never get along, no matter what. Therefore, it is important to supervise and monitor their interactions, and provide them with separate spaces and resources to avoid stress and competition.
