Myths About Cats Whether you call them myths or old wives' tales, there are a lot of mistaken ideas about cats.
Speaking of Pets June 28, 2008
by Mindy Norton
There is more information about cats available today than ever before in history.
And yet, wrong ideas persist - the cat myths.
For example, one myth says cats need milk to drink.
For kittens, their mother's milk is the ideal food. However, cow's milk is not.
In fact, although many cats enjoy drinking milk, some cats cannot tolerate it. I had a cat once that was actually allergic to milk.
You may want to give your cat milk as an occasional treat, but it should not be the main diet, and it should never be considered a substitute for water.
Another cat myth says a cat that's purring is a happy cat.
Most cats do purr when they're happy.
They also purr when they're hurt, and even sometimes when they're dying.
Kittens often purr when they nurse, along with their mother.
And as much as we have learned about cats, even the experts don't really know exactly how they produce that purring sound cat lovers enjoy so much.
If you're superstitious, you may believe the myth that black cats bring bad luck.
I had a black cat that lived to be more than 20 years old - he brought me a lot of companionship but no bad luck.
Perhaps the most dangerous myth is that cats have nine lives.
Because of their quickness, their agility, their flexibility, their wonderful sense of balance, and their ability to see in very low light, cats can survive some pretty tricky situations.
But cats are particularly vulnerable to modern dangers, such as cars.
Cats are as mortal as we are, and like us, have only one life. It's up to us to give them the care they need to make it a long and happy one.
The month of June is Adopt-a-Cat Month - because more cats and kittens are surrendered to shelters during June than during any other month of the year.
Having your cat spayed or neutered can help to prevent unwanted litters.
And if you're looking for a pet, consider visiting your local animal shelter during Adopt-a-cat Month.
When you discover the special feeling of holding a pet that purrs in your arms, you will realize it's no myth that a cat can be a great companion – when you're speaking of pets.
Speaking of Pets with host Mindy Norton (pets@apr.org) is for people who care about pets and about humane treatment for animals in general, and who want to celebrate that special relationship between us and our animal companions. Find out more about Speaking of Pets at Alabama Public Radio.
