10 Common Cat Myths DEBUNKED!

| Published on October 25, 2014

There are a lot of myths about cats – from being in league with witches to having nine lives – some are believable and others not so much. Jennifer Mauger CPDT-KSA Certified Professional Dog Trainer and a cat behaviorist at L’Chaim Feline gives us the 10 most common believed cat myths and the truth behind them.

#1 – Cats Can’t be Trained

Cats do not respond to punishment based training methods.  Instead try a clicker and your cat’s favorite treat or canned food.  In no time you can teach your cat to sit, stay, come when they are called, high five and many other behaviors!

Click page 2 below for the next myth!

#2 – Cats are Solitary Creatures

When it comes to hunting cats are solitary creatures. Otherwise, cats will form and live in colonies.

#3 – Cats Only Purr When They are Happy

Purring can also be a sign of pain.  How do you know the difference?  Context and body language are the key.  A cat in pain will also shows sign of stress and will most likely be stand-offish.

Image source: @RogerBraunstein via Flickr

#4 – Cats Steal a Baby’s Breath

This old myth has yet to die.  Cats will smell a baby’s breath in the same way they will smell ours.  They cannot steal their breath.

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#5 – Pregnant Women Should Not Live with Cats

Toxoplasmosis is a serious blood disease caused by a parasite found in cat feces.  It can also be contracted through raw meats, gardening, as well as contaminated fruits and vegetables.  Simply pass litterbox duties to someone else

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#6 – Declawing is Just a Permanent Way to Trim a Cat’s Nails

Declawing is actually a painful procedure where the first knuckle of each toe is amputated in order to completely remove the nail bed.  It can also lead to arthritis, litter box issues and increased biting.

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#7 – Cats Don’t Need Exercise

Cats, especially those living indoors, need daily exercise.  This can be achieved through interactive play, teaching your cat to walk on a harness and leash, or even an exercise wheel for extremely active cats.

#8 – Cats Are Not Affectionate

Although cats tend to me more subtle in their signs of affection, cats can be very affectionate with their human beings.  Proper and early socialization as a kitten is the key to a social and outgoing cat.

#9 – Cats Always Land on Their Feet

Although cats are extremely agile and can twist their body in amazing ways, they can’t always land properly.  Short falls can be dangerous for a cat as they can’t get their feet under them before landing.

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#10 – Only Male Cats Spray

Female cats can spray too, especially when they are in heat. In most cases spaying your female will take care of the problem.  Sometimes they will spray if feeling threatened by other cats or outdoor strays that they can see or smell.

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