We all have heard this in our childhood, “Do not go near a black cat, they bring bad omen”. Did you know that in some countries such as Egypt, Japan, and African cultures, cats are worshipped for bringing good luck and protecting humans from evil spirits? Despite all this popularity, the kind has been dealing with several cat myths in our country for years. These myths have caused us to cloud our judgment and affect how we care for them. Whether you’re a weathered cat parent or a new one, it is important to understand the truth behind these myths.

In this article, we are going to dispel 10 common cat myths, especially about Indian cats by providing you with facts and tips to help you better care for your feline friend.

 

Myth #1: Cats are bad luck and it is dangerous to have them at home.

Fact: There is no proven evidence for this cat myth. As a matter of fact, cats create a positive environment with their presence and can help you get over stress and depression.

 

Myth #2: Cats can see clearly in total darkness.

Fact: While cats have brilliant night vision, they cannot see in the total dimness. Just like humans, they too need some light to be able to see their surroundings.

Myth #3: Cats can always land on their feet.

Fact: Cats are known to have an incredible ability to position themselves mid-air, but still there is a risk of injury if they fall from a height. In addition, age, arthritis, and other illnesses can reduce a cat’s reflexes, and enough cats are injured by falls from great heights every year to give it a name: high rise syndrome.

 

Myth #4: Cats are indifferent and do not like being touched.

Fact: We heard almost every cat parent laughing hard at this baseless feline myth, as they all know that cats require constant grooming and petting throughout the day. Cats can be very affectionate once you gain their trust. Everyone gets nervous around new things. It would be impolite of us to expect a different reaction from cats.

 

Myth #5: Cats hate social interactions and prefer being alone.

Fact:  Not all cats are the same! While some cats may not be as social as other pets, most of them need regular social collaboration with their human parents. Cats too can turn into lonely introverts if neglected and left alone for a long time.

 

Myth #6: All cats hate to go near water.

Fact: While some cats prefer maintaining distance from even a droplet of water, some of the breeds such as the Bengal cat and Turkish Van enjoy water splashes and love swimming. Cat myths such as this are responsible for negligence toward the hygienic needs of pet cats. If you’re looking for an easy way to get your cat into the bathing tub, check out these tips on how to bathe your cat safely.

 

Myth #7: Cats are blessed with nine lives.

Fact: Cats are known to be very alert and can survive falls that would be fatal to other animals, but they certainly cannot jump into the next life as they too only have one life like any other living creature.

 

Myth #8: Cats do not need regular maintenance.

Fact:  We all have seen cats cleaning themselves at least ten times a day with their tongues, but that doesn’t mean they require no maintenance. Just like every other pet, cats too need regular playtime routines, grooming sessions, and vet check-ups. Prepare yourself with these amazing cat bathing tips to provide your cat with regular maintenance. 

 

Myth #9: Cats cannot be trained as they are distant and stubborn.

Fact: Cats are gifted animals who can be trained to do tricks and follow commands. For example, You can train your cat to sleep through the night by planning a consistent schedule for meals, playtime, grooming, and stroking. This will help to maintain your cat’s well-being and provide you with a restful night’s sleep each night. Keep in mind that it requires patience and positive reinforcement to see positive results at the end of the training. 

 

Myth #10: Cats are unfaithful to their owners.

Fact: Cats are innocent, loving, and loyal creatures. They can form super-strong bonds with their human parents over time. They have a way of expressing their love and loyalty. For example; When a cat blinks while looking at you, they are trying to express the utmost care and affection they hold for you.

 

Things you can do to build a better world for cats

 

Now that we have uncovered the truth behind these cat myths, here are some helpful tips for you to dispel them:

1. By conducting feline awareness programs, educate your close ones and others about the true nature of cats.
2. Along with love and attention engage your cat in regular social interaction to become more friendly in the eyes of society.
3. Introduce your cat to positive reinforcement techniques.
4. Prioritize your cat’s regular grooming and medical check-ups to present a healthy and happy cat.
5. Be patient and understanding about your cat’s behavior and needs so as not to misjudge them.

 

The growing cat myths might not affect humans in their daily life but it has certainly made survival difficult for the local cats. It is important to make people aware of the true nature of cats. If you too are prey to these myths and lack in providing medical attention to your pet cat or a nearby local cat, do not hesitate to consult a veterinarian. Let’s share the safe and friendly world we’ve built for ourselves with our feline friends, they hardly take up any space.