CAT MYTHOLOGY
There are many stories revolving cats, some of which are true to some extent while the others are a complete myth. Cat mythology is varied in different countries and the stories related to cat myths changes according to the geographical location.
The traditional beliefs and various myths associated with cats are primarily due to superstition and belief, due to ignorance and even fear in some areas. The cat myths originate from various sources and these can be from friends, relative, and nowadays from internet. All these cat mythology when believed can take you to a wrong direction.
The following are some common cat myths
1. Cats don’t need exercise
This is a myth. Cats need to exercise for physical and mental stimulation. Due to safety concerns most cat owners tend to keep their cats indoors.
This steals the cat of its regular exercise that it receives in the wild, but if you provide them with games and toys inside your home it will help cats in staying active and maintain a healthy body weight.
2. Cats have nine lives
One thing is certain that cats have one life. Regular visits to a vet will ensure your cat stays healthy and fit without any serious health issues. Take your cat for regular dental care, vaccinations, and checkups and this should not be done only when they are sick. Preventive checkups will ensure a healthy life for your cat.
3. Cats are Independent and aloof
This is a very common cat mythology and most people do believe in this theory. People label cats as solitary beings and do not make an attempt to interact with them. You need to remember that cats are different from dogs and any comparison between them is futile. Cats are not aloof and are very well tuned into the environment. Their senses of sound, smell and sight are always on alert since they are predators by nature. They are equally focused creatures and will respond to your calls.
4. Cats are not affectionate
Whenever there is a comparison between pets most people feel that cats are not affectionate. This is not true because cats are able to show their affection through various other means, which most of us don’t notice. Your cat may enjoy sitting next to you, or sit on your lap and even sit away from you. All these are their way of showing affection towards you in a subtle manner. Rubbing of the nose on your legs, rubbing their head against you, soft purring, and even giving kisses with their rough tongue are all their ways of showing affection. Remember each cat is different and will react to your affection in a different manner.
5. Cats are very independent
To some extent this is true. Cats can stay alone without their owners for few days unlike dogs. They are still dependent on us for a lot of things and need constant maintenance. Due to this myth a lot of cat owners tend to ignore the daily grooming activities of their feline friend and this in turn has a harmful effect on their cat’s personality. If left alone for a long time cats suffer from separation anxiety and crave for care and attention.
6. Without Whiskers cat tend to lose their balance
Whiskers do play a very important role in a cat’s life. Cats use whiskers to feel things and not to maintain balance. The way a cat holds his whiskers is an indication of his mood. Cutting or trimming whiskers will harm your cat’s skin since they are deep rooted.
7. Cats love milk
This is a big myth associated with cats, but most of us will find it hard to believe that cats are not great fans of milk. The fact is cats find it hard to digest milk protein and suffer from diarrhea. Even too much milk can lead to obesity in cats. Stick to a balanced diet that is rich in animal protein for maintaining a good health in your cat.
8. Cats don’t need to brush their teeth
Routine brushing of your cats teeth will help improve their breath and prevent any teeth and gum diseases. Brushing is a very important part of your cats grooming. If you are novice to brushing your cat’s teeth, then consult a vet for his advice.
9. Cats wag their tail to show happiness
This has not been proved why cats wag their tail. Cats usually wag their tail when they are unhappy or upset about something. Cats express their happiness through some complex body movements and vocalizations, which is generally difficult to understand. Understanding your cat’s complex body language will help you in developing a good relation with you feline friend.
Cats are a great companion if you understand them and this is only possible if you remove all the doubts that you have in your mind about cats. Consider her as a different animal with its own strengths and weakness. Do not compare them with other pets like dogs.
