Top 5 Cat Care Myths Debunked by Pet Owners

Today, I'm here to share with you some common misconceptions about cat care, and see if any of these issues have ever popped up in your life as a cat parent.

Myth 1: Cats are droughtresistant and don't need much water.

While cats are indeed quite tolerant of thirst, this doesn't mean they don't require ample hydration. In fact, their high tolerance for dehydration can lead to concentrated urine, which increases the risk of urinary tract issues like kidney failure and bladder stones.

Therefore, it's crucial to encourage your cat to drink plenty of water and develop a habit of drinking. Placing multiple water bowls around the house can make it easier for your feline friend to access water at any time.

Consider swapping out small bowls for larger ones with wide openings to make drinking more comfortable for your cat and prevent them from getting their whiskers and chins wet.

And remember, if your cat falls ill with a urinary tract disorder, it's important to seek veterinary care promptly.

Myth 2: Not changing the water if it's not finished and forgetting to clean the bowl.

Cats are very particular about water quality, preferring clean, odorfree, and even running water. Stagnant water can accumulate dust, particles, and bacteria, leading to unpleasant odors that cats may avoid.

If your cat isn't drinking much, it might be due to an unclean water bowl. Always remember to clean the bowl's bottom when changing the water.

Myth 3: Indoor cats don't need deworming or vaccinations.

Even if your cat never goes outside, it's not immune to external pathogens. Guests and other indoor pets can bring in diseases, making vaccinations essential.

Parasites can also be an issue, with some transmitted from mother to kitten, like ear mites, or contracted through improper feeding, such as consuming raw meat which can lead to tapeworms and coccidia.

Even indoor cats can pick up fleas, so it's important to deworm them if fleas are found, and avoid feeding them raw fish or meat to prevent parasites.

Myth 4: Feeding cats and dogs the same food.

While cat and dog food may look similar, they have different nutritional needs. Mixing the two can lead to imbalances or deficiencies in either animal's diet.

Keep cat and dog food separate and in different areas to avoid crosscontamination.

Myth 5: Feeding cats milk.

Contrary to the cartoon "Tom and Jerry," not all cats can tolerate milk. Many cats are lactose intolerant, and drinking milk can lead to diarrhea.

While it's an exaggeration to say that all cats will die from drinking milk, some young kittens may suffer from severe dehydration and lack of energy, potentially leading to death due to their weakened immune systems.

For kittens, consider using specially formulated kitten milk or goat's milk instead.

Myth 6: The cat litter box is too small.

As cats grow, their litter boxes should be replaced with larger ones to accommodate their size and comfort.

Myth 7: Forcing interaction with your cat.

Forcing your cat to interact with you can be stressful for them. Cats may show signs of discomfort, like "ear flops" or tucking their tails between their legs, indicating fear or anxiety.

Myth 8: Shaving cats during summer.

Cats' fur serves as insulation against both cold and heat. Shaving them can leave their skin vulnerable to temperature changes and skin issues.

Myth 9: Bathing cats frequently.

Cats are naturally clean and do a good job of grooming themselves. Bathing them too often can be stressful and harmful.