11 Common Cat Myths

Last Updated on December 31, 2020

There are many urban legends and myths surrounding the cat species. While some are from old wives’ tales and misconceptions, others are simply observing the species in the wrong light. Here are 11 common house cat myths worth debunking.

Cats Have 9 Lives

Cats are simply just amazing death escaping artists. This is where the popular myth came to pass. People would see cats face deadly situations and live (such as falling from a tall building). The nine originates from ancient cultures who believed the number to be lucky.

All Cats Hate Water

While most cats dislike being in the water, there are some who actually enjoy it. Certain domestic breeds produce kittens who are very likely to enjoy water enough to play in it. Let us not forget tigers. Tigers love playing in water.

Fish Is Good for Cats

When was the last time you saw a small cat catching a fish from a river? Fish should be an occasional treat for house cats, in fact eating too much fish can lead to steatitis. And no, tuna is not healthy for your cat. Most brands are filled with mercury that is enough to harm us, and they are a lot smaller than us!

People Can Be Allergic to Cat Fur

When a person is allergic to cats, it is not because of the fur. The allergen comes from the skin oils and the dandruff is what they are allergic too. Because cats heavily clean their bodies, this makes the saliva a possible allergy as well. A person can actually own cats their whole life and encounter one and be allergic to that one and only cat.

All Calico Cats Are Females

Though it is much rarer in comparison, there are male Calico cats. Because the color is dominantly defined by the sex of the cat, when a male does occur, they are almost always sterile.

Cats Always Land on Their Feet

The motion known as the “righting reflex” actually needs enough space between the cat’s point of falling and the ground to turn right side up. In more cases than not, cats who fall from greater heights end up with damaged limbs, tails, or spines; And yes, even death can occur.

Cats Can Drink Cow’s Milk

Most cats are lactose intolerant and can become sick from drinking milk. Humans are still adapting to drinking milk and eating cheese from centuries ago, cats have not adapted at all so they should never be given cow’s milk.

Cats Purr When They Are Happy

Most of the time, a cat’s purr signifies as them being happy and content, but that is not always the case. A cat in pain can purr; This shows the purr is more like an emotion than an expression. We cry from being sad, just as we cry from being overjoyed.

Cats Don’t Get Rabies

Like most warm-blooded mammals, cats can get rabies.

Cats Can Eat Garlic to Kill Worms

Putting garlic in a cat’s food can actually make them sick. It is commonly known to cause anemia and should never be an ingredient in their food.

Declawing Doesn’t Hurt

A cat’s nails are directly connected to bones and nerves. When removing a nail, bone is removed and nerves are sometimes damaged. It is also a myth to believe recovery is easy. More cats suffer from depression when they have their nails removed.