Myths About Your Cats -- or Are They Just Misconceptions?
Cats are often misunderstood due to all the myths and folklore that causes people to be unsure about many of the areas of feline care and health. You may find yourself surprised when you learn that many of these myths are really not true!
Myth #1: When a cat purrs, it means that it is a sign of “friendship”, contentedness or happiness.
The truth: This may be true in many instances – your feline friend will often purr while you are petting him or while he is content snuggling in bed with you. But be aware, careful observers of the cat know that purring isn't just a sound of contentment. Cats also purr if they're injured, while giving birth - even when dying.
Myth #2: Pregnant women should not have cats as they are a risk to the pregnant woman and her unborn child.
The truth: You do not have to get rid of your cat while you are pregnant. The following information is from the CDC website:
• Avoid changing cat litter if possible. If no one else can perform the task, wear disposable gloves and wash your hands with soap and warm water afterwards.
• Ensure that the cat litter box is changed daily. The Toxoplasma parasite does not become infectious until 1 to 5 days after it is shed in a cat's feces.
• Feed your cat commercial dry or canned food, not raw or undercooked meats.
• Keep cats indoors.
• Avoid stray cats, especially kittens. Do not get a new cat while you are pregnant.
• Keep outdoor sandboxes covered.
• Wear gloves when gardening and during contact with soil or sand because it might be contaminated with cat feces that contain Toxoplasma. Wash hands with soap and warm water after gardening or contact with soil or sand.
Myth #3: Cats hate water.
The truth: Some cats may legitimately be afraid of running water. As a cat owner, you may find that your cat has a fascination with running water – specifically water from the tap or the shower that he can sit in a safe spot and watch or drink. Most cats will not appreciate a bath or falling into a swimming pool, though.
Myth #4: Indoor cats do not need to be vaccinated.
The truth: Many of the disease causing organisms can be transmitted through the air or can be carried in on your clothing or shoes. This includes parasites, such as fleas and ticks. Indoor cats are not immune to disease or parasites!