We cat lovers are a passionate bunch. We love to talk about our cats, share pictures of them on social media, and brag about how adorable they are. And when someone says something bad about cats? We’re ready to defend them tooth and nail! But even cat lovers can be misled by false information about these furry friends. So we’ve gathered the 12 most common “facts” about cats that are actually false, to set the record straight.
1. Cats are nocturnal
Cats are nocturnal creatures, right? Well, that’s not exactly true. While it’s true that cats are more active at night, they actually sleep for most of the day. In fact, cats spend an average of 16 hours a day sleeping! So if you’re looking for a cat to keep you company at night, you might be out of luck.
2. Cats are not trainable
This is a common misconception about cats. While it may be true that cats aren’t as easily trained as dogs, that doesn’t mean they can’t be trained at all. With patience and positive reinforcement, you can teach your cat to do tricks, use the litter box, and more.
3. Cats always land on their feet
Cats do have a natural ability to right themselves in mid-air and land on their feet, but this isn’t true 100% of the time. If a cat falls from a great height, they may not be able to orient themselves properly and could end up seriously injured.
4. Cats are lazy
Again, this is a common misconception about cats. Cats sleep an average of 16 hours a day, which may make them seem lazy to us. But when you consider that they spend the majority of their waking hours hunting and stalking prey, it’s no wonder they need all that sleep!
5. Cats are low maintenance pets
Cats are not low maintenance pets. Yes, they don’t need to be walked and they use a litter box, but that doesn’t mean they don’t require care and attention. Cats need to be fed daily, have their litter boxes cleaned regularly, and need regular vet check-ups and vaccinations. They also require plenty of toys, scratch posts, and climbing opportunities to stay healthy and happy.
6. Cats are aloof or independent creatures
Cats are not aloof or independent creatures that couldn’t care less about their humans. In fact, cats form strong bonds with their owners and can be just as affectionate as dogs. Cats show their love in different ways than dogs, but they still need and crave attention and love from their humans.
7. Milk is a great treat for cats
Milk is a common treat that many cat owners give their pets, but it’s actually not good for them. Milk contains lactose, which can cause stomach upset and diarrhea in cats. So if you want to give your cat a special treat, skip the milk and go for something like tuna or chicken instead.
8. It’s OK to leave cats at home alone for a long weekend
It’s not! Cats are social creatures and need companionship, even when their humans are away. If you must leave your cat alone for an extended period of time, make sure to set up a pet sitter or check-in service to provide them with food, water, and love.
9. A purring cat equals a happy cat
While it’s true that cats do purr when they’re content, they also purr when they’re stressed, in pain, or even giving birth! So if your cat is purring, it could mean any number of things. If you’re concerned about your cat’s wellbeing, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian.
10. Declawing is not harmful
One of the most common misconceptions about cats is that declawing them is harmful. Declawing is a surgical procedure where the last bone of each toe is removed, and it can be painful for your cat. However, if it’s done by a qualified veterinarian and your cat is given proper pain medication, they will recover quickly and there shouldn’t be any long-term effects. Declawing is also not harmful to your cat’s health, and it can actually help prevent them from developing problems like arthritis in their joints later on.
11. Cats hate water
Contrary to popular belief, cats actually do like water – some even love it! While most cats prefer not to take a dip in the pool, they enjoy playing with water from the sink or a spray bottle. Cats also enjoy sitting in sunny spots to soak up some rays.
12. Indoor cats live longer
Indoor cats don’t have as long of a lifespan as outdoor cats.
Outdoor cats face many dangers, such as cars, other animals, and weather extremes. These hazards can take a toll on their health, shorten their lifespan, and cause them to live a less-than-ideal life. Indoor cats may not have the same exciting life as their outdoor counterparts, but they live longer, healthier lives on average.
So there you have it! The next time someone tries to tell you one of these common cat “facts”, you can set them straight. Do you know of any other false “facts” about cats? Share them in the comments below!
