Because of this, it’s not surprising that there are a number of cat myths floating around. These cat myths range from cat care concerns, to their purrsonality and abilities… Do you know your cat facts?
Myth #1: Cats are impersonal, independent, and aloof.
Despite felines’ inherent behavioral differences from their canine counterparts, this myth often negatively impacts our cat friends in a variety of ways. First, many people assume cats are OK alone for longer periods of time, which can instigate outright forms of neglect or abandonment.
Cats require our love, care, and attention just as much as our other pets, and can become lonely or anxious when we are gone. Cats display separation anxiety in behaviors such as urination and defecation outside of the litter box, vocalization, excessive grooming, vomiting, and lack of appetite.
Myth #2: My cat is unhappy indoors. Cats should be outdoor pets.
First of all, domesticated cats are not a part of the natural ecosystem, which means when a domesticated cat is turned loose, songbirds, small mammals, lizards, and other native species populations diminish. In addition, cats are not “street savvy”. Cats kept outdoors are more much more likely to die prematurely by accident or injury, or exposure to illnesses. In many urban areas, feral cat colonies are also a serious problem, proliferating the spread of disease.
Myth #3: Cats always land on their feet.
Cat injury and death from falls is such a common occurrence researchers gave it a name: High Rise Syndrome. While cats do have flexible spines, serious thoracic injuries and fractures are a possible depending on the seriousness of the fall. The good news is that these injuries are preventable by securing all windows and balcony doors.
Myth #4: Cats should be given cow’s milk.
Nope! Your cat may happily lap up milk from a saucer, but that doesn’t mean it’s good for him or her. Cats are naturally lactose intolerant, which means this “treat” may result in diarrhea and stomach upset.
Myth #5: Cats can exist on a vegetarian diet.
While humans can make the break from a meat-based diet, cats cannot without seriously impacting their health. Cats are obligate carnivores and require a diet high in protein and moisture. Choose foods that are comprised of quality meat and vary dry food with moist.
Myth #6: Cats stop using the litterbox because of a behavioral issue.
If your cat has been properly trained to use a litterbox and suddenly stops, or has increased accidents, this could be a sign of an underlying health issue. Schedule an appointment for a wellness exam.
Myth #7: Cats become overweight and lazy when they’ve been spayed or neutered.
By spaying or neutering your cat, you are doing your part to decrease the overwhelming number of stray felines in the United States, as well as encouraging the health and well-being of your pet. Spayed or neutered cats are less likely to develop some cancers and accidents associated with “roaming” are greatly decreased.
Of course, there are many more myths about our elusive feline friends. But, the ones that seem to do more damage, when believed, are those that can unfortunately impact the health of our pets.
Seven Hills Veterinary Hospital encourages a life of optimal health for your favorite feline through consistent wellness exams, a balanced, nutritious diet, and disease prevention. If you’d like to schedule an appointment for your best friend, give us a call.
Meow!