If somebody tells you they saw the Tooth Fairy, you’d know they were pulling your leg. But what if someone said to you that cats always land on their feet? Would you agree, or would you be a little uncertain?
There are a bunch of myths about pets that have persisted through time, and many people still believe a lot of them. We’re not talking about superstitions, like don’t let a black cat cross your path, or a howling dog means someone’s about to die.
This article focuses on myths about dogs and cats that have been repeated so often that many people assume they must be true. See which ones surprise you, and which ones you already knew were inaccurate.
Six Myths About Dogs That People Think Are True
Dog lovers, it’s time to face the music. When your pup is wagging their tail, it doesn’t necessarily mean they’re thrilled to see you. Yep, this is just one of the dog myths that many people believe, but it’s only the beginning.
1. A Wagging Tail Equals a Happy Dog
Your dog may wag their tail because they’re nervous, stressed, or even feeling aggressive. The speed, direction, and position of the tail all come into play when it comes to understanding your dog. On the flip side, just because your dog isn’t wagging their tail doesn’t mean they’re unhappy.
2. Dogs Can’t See Colors
It seems like the misconception that dogs only see in black and white has been around forever. However, while your pup doesn’t see the world exactly like you do, dogs can see a few colors, primarily blues and yellows. Keep this in mind the next time you’re perusing the toy aisle at the pet store.
3. Seven Dog Years Are Equivalent to One Human Year
There’s some nuance with this one. Yes, dog years and human years are not the same. A 10-year-old dog is considered a senior, but a human the same age is very much a kid. The formula of one human year equaling seven dog years is an oversimplification to associate a dog’s age with something we understand.
But a dog’s exact age varies by breed, size, and other factors. Also, typically, small dogs live longer than large breeds, so they age more slowly on the scale.
4. A Dry Nose Means Your Dog Is Sick
Did your mom or dad ever tell you to feel your pup’s nose if you thought they were feeling under the weather? The old wives’ tale is that a dry nose means something is wrong with your furry friend. However, many reasons can cause a dry sniffer, like the weather or simply that your dog doesn’t lick their nose a lot.
Conversely, a wet nose could even signal potential illness or mean your dog is licking their nose excessively because of irritation or allergies. Therefore, if you’re worried about your pup, it’s always best to stay alert to other potential signals and talk with a vet.
5. You Can’t Teach an Old Dog New Tricks
This popular saying has been around so long that people assume it must be true. The phrase is often used to refer to a stubborn person, set in their ways. However, when it comes to dogs, you can absolutely teach an old dog new tricks; it might just take a little more patience and effort.
6. A Growling Dog Is Aggressive
Growling isn’t always a sign of aggression in dogs. Many dogs growl to offer a warning. Some growls are even playful, while others signal stress. It’s important to understand the different types of growls so you interpret them correctly. Still, if you don’t know a dog and they’re growling, it’s safest to assume they’re telling you to back off and keep your distance.
Six Myths About Cats That People Still Believe
Everyone’s heard the phrase, “A cat has nine lives,” but most people likely know that isn’t literally true. This claim stems from cats’ impressive agility, speed, and flexibility, all qualities that seem to help them out of many scrapes and near-death experiences. But there are several other cat-centric myths that people believe.
1. Cats Always Land on Their Feet
Cats indeed have an uncanny ability to twist and move their body in the air as they’re falling. The result is usually that cats land on their feet. However, despite their amazing reflexes, a fall from certain heights or awkward angles can still lead to serious injury.
2. If a Cat Is Purring, It Means They’re Happy
When you hear your feline friend purring like a little motorboat, you assume they’re content. However, cats may also purr as a way to self-soothe, meaning they could feel anxious, upset, or unwell. A happy cat will show other signs of contentment, like slow blinks or rubbing against you, so make sure to take in the whole picture.
3. Letting Your Cat Have One Litter Is Good for Them
There’s no specific health benefit for cats (or dogs) to give birth to a litter. On the contrary, spaying or neutering your pet could increase your fur baby’s chances of living a longer, healthier life.
4. Milk Is Good for Cats
The stereotype of giving a cat a dish of milk is one that’s been around for ages. In actuality, milk isn’t good for cats (or dogs), especially if they’re lactose intolerant (which most adult cats are). Therefore, think twice before giving your cat a saucer of milk, and stick with a bowl of fresh water instead.
5. You Can’t Walk Cats on a Leash
Yes, indeed, it’s not common to see people out and about walking their cats on a leash. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t possible.
Quite a few cat parents take their feline friends on outdoor adventures, using a leash to keep them nearby and safe. If you want to leash train your cat, you need patience, time, and lots of treats.
6. Cats Don’t Form Attachments to Humans
Anyone who’s already a cat lover and proud cat parent knows this myth isn’t true. However, it’s a popular misconception that felines are aloof and don’t care about their human counterparts.
Cats may have their own ways of displaying affection, and can certainly prefer to be alone now and then (who doesn’t?). But you only need to look at a cat with their favorite human to debunk this myth in seconds.
Getting to the Truth: Busting Myths About Dogs and Cats
Did any of these myths surprise you? Many of them come from grains of truth, but overall, they’re false. Cats don’t always land on their feet, dogs can see some colors, and you can’t always assume your pet’s feelings because of a tail wag or purr.
Don’t let popular pet myths dictate how you respond to a dog or a cat (whether your own or someone else’s). If you’re unsure about something, always get the facts. Look to reputable sources, discuss things with your vet, and stay vigilant when observing your pet.
For more helpful pet tips and resources about taking care of your furry pals, check out the rest of the Neater Pets blog.