Cats: Debunking the Myths

Cats are a mystery to all of us, and it doesn't help us to understand them more when so many myths and untrue facts are flying about all over the place! That's why we decided to debunk a couple of these myths and separate fact from fiction.

#1: Black Cats are Unlucky

Yes the most common superstition of all: don't stroke a black cat, don't pass a black cat, don't own a black cat... We've heard it all. Of course, black cats are just the same as any other coloured cats, and are very cute! Unfortunately, it is most likely that this myth is the reason that most cats in rescues are black :(

#2: Declawing your cat is just a permanent nail trim

The most wildly misunderstood myth of all time. Also called "Declawing" it is not just a simple nail removal, however, it is the surgical amputation of the first joint of each toe of the cat, The human equivalent would be having your fingertips cut off! Luckily, if you do have issues with your cat's nails there are many other humane alternatives such as routinely trimming your cat's nails.

#3: All Cats absolutely hate water

Although yes, a lot of cats hate water, it's not true for all cats. Some cats find water fascinating and like to play with or even in water! This myth probably evolved from the fact that a cats fur absorb a lot of water and so don't dry very fast at all, so their natural agility is stunted and they can't escape from danger quickly.

#4: You should give your cat milk

Honestly, cat's just do not need milk as part of their diet. Their usual balanced diet should give them everything they need.  In fact, by the age of 6 months, cats lose the ability to digest lactose (lactose intolerant). This means that milk and other dairy products can actually cause a bad stomach and/or diarrhoea!

#5: Cats are unloving and unsociable creatures

Domesticated cats, as a whole, are very independent creatures, meaning you are unlikely to get the same level of affection from your cat as your dog (however as always there are a few exceptions to the rule, but that doesn't mean they don't love you in their own way! Cats will come and go for attention and can live happily with other cats and even dogs! (see the next myth)

#6: Cats Hate Dogs

Cats can get along well with dogs just fine, in fact, it more so depends on the breed of dog on whether they will get along or not. A lot of dog breed will be fine with cats and vice versa, especially if brought up together from a young age. 

#7: In new surroundings, rub butter on your cat's paws to help them find home again.

This myth is advice usually given to people who move house and let their cat roam outdoors, in order to help them find their way home again. However, in all honesty, this is more likely to stress your cat your cat out as they will be so focused on licking off the butter that they won't be able to take in the new surroundings and smells and they will also smell like butter and leave greasy paw prints wherever they walk...

#8: Cats can't be trained 

Well, Cats can be trained. Whether it's to use the litterbox, fetching toys or even the basics of sit, stay and high five! Training can be a great way to bond with your cat, whether it's traditional or recreational training a cat can definitely be trained.

#9: Cats are nocturnal

They are actually crepuscular! Meaning they are most active at dusk and dawn, as that is when it is easiest for them to hunt. Just because you feed them when you feed them doesn't mean they will forget their basic genetic instincts, however, they are likely to adapt to a routine once settled.

#10: It's better for a female cat to give birth before being spayed

Nope! Actually, it's the complete opposite. If you are going to spay your cat it is best to do so before she becomes a mother. Spaying your cat can help prevent many forms of cancer and solves the cat overpopulation issue!

So there you have it 10 myths about cats completely debunked! if you want to see more myth debunking blogs, put a comment down below :D