False Beliefs and The Real Truth About Cats
A lot of people don't like cats. In fact, some people go out of their way to dislike them. But the more you ask, the more you get to the heart of the matter. Most people have either had bad experiences with them or simply heard nonsense and non-truths about them. Some people on the other hand just want an excuse to not like cats and there is nothing that can change their mind. In this case, it is truly best not to have them have a cat at all.
Most rational people who don't like cats or fear them should know that cats are extremely wonderful, smart, loving creatures. They have a very specific language (to be discussed in a future post), that once you know it, will have you getting along heavenly with most felines. There are exceptions where a cat is not an option as a companion. If you have allergies and don't wish to take medication to treat them, if a cat has been abused so badly it simply doesn't trust humans, if someone in your household can be harmful to the cat, if you think you can just get rid of it if you don't like the cat, or if the cat is so ill he/she requires special care and therefore not suitable for a typical household.
Let's see below some of the myths people believe and the actual realities. This is not an all inclusive list so if you can think of more myths not mentioned, go ahead and submit it and we'll add it in our comments section.
Myths People Believe About Cats:
Myth 1-Cats are traitors and dangerous, especially around children.
Truth-If a cat is trained and treated well, he or she will be a safe and loving companion to have for a lifetime. Cats love to play. If you give your cat an outlet to play, toys and play time, they won't get bored and need to entertain themselves in unhealthy ways. It is the responsibility of the adult to make sure to supervise children and ensure they are not inadvertently hurting the cats or making moves the cat will interpret as threatening. Cats are perfectly suited for children should both the child and cat be properly monitored, trained and treated.
Myth 2-Cats attract are evil.
Truth-Yes people actually believe this. Cats and animals in general can detect through their senses differently than humans. They have better night vision and perceive farther in the electromagnetic spectrum. People mistake this for attracting negative spirits or energy. Just because they see things that are invisible to us does not mean they attract anything bad or negative. Sadly, people even kill black cats during Halloween in an attempt to get rid of evil or even for ridiculous rituals.
Myth 3-They scratch and destroy things.
Truth-They have a basic physical need and instinct to scratch as part of their biology. They like to sharpen their nails and are natural hunters. If you provide them with scratching posts and a designated place to scratch they will usually not damage furniture. With the right training it can be very much controlled.
Myth 4-You can't trust them.
Truth-Cats are living breathing creatures. They have predictable behavior but also depending on what's happening around they will react in certain ways that will surprise us. It doesn't mean they are calculating ways to hurt us or anything around us. Many (not all) are natural hunters and can harm birds, and small rodents. So if you have other pets like hamsters, gerbils and birds, you may have to do research on how to have them cohabitate in the same household.
Myth 5-They give you allergies.
Truth-Anything can trigger allergies to humans at any time during our lifespan. There is more of a risk of becoming allergic to food or medicine than to a pet. Some research indicates that if animals are introduced early into a child's life, they often do NOT develop allergies toward that particular species of animal.
Myth 6-They stink.
Truth-This is usually the human's fault. If you don't provide the proper environment, training or healthcare the cats or any animal will do whatever they have to fill certain basic needs. Also, if an animal has been abused and neglected, sadly as it happens too often, they may urinate or defecate in places we don't want them to out of fear, habit, or due to a physical/emotional illness. They are often communicating something to us, so pay attention to deal the issue in a healthy way for all. In summary, as for this myth, I don't happen to know any human being that smells like lilies all the time. All living organism tend to befall entropy with time, so let's cut cats some slack.
Myth 7-Don't play like dogs.
Truth-Well, this is actually kinda true. But that's because they're not dogs, Duh! However, cats do play and some actually do play and act like doggies.
Myth 8-Are aloof and unfriendly
Truth-Cats have a reputation for being very independent. But if you notice or ask any cat lover, they will tell you it depends on the cat's personality and training. Some cats are lap cats, while some come cuddle and leave, and still others are very needy and want to be pet all the time. Some cats are perfectly content being in their own space and napping most of the time. If you want a supper cuddly cat, then when looking to adopt, speak to a professional to help you choose the right breed and temperament that matches with yours.
Myth 9-Are fully nocturnal.
Truth-Due to their natural inclination to hunt, cats are often awake at dawn and dusk giving the illusion they are up all night. Kittens often like to play at night as well. But with time adjust to their human companion's schedule.
Myth 10-Should be let out regularly.
Truth-It is actually dangerous to let your cat wander out. Cats can be perfectly happy and healthy being indoors provided you, the caretaker give him/her what he/she needs to be so. Cats that are let out, have shorter lifespans due to unpredictable dangers outdoors, cars, other people, diseases, them getting trapped, etc.
Myth 11-Cats should be declawed
Truth-This is very controversial. Removing their claws is not the same as clipping their nails. Removing claws is akin to removing their "fingers". Should they have to be put in an environment where there are other cats, or dangers they will not be able to climb away or defend themselves in any way. There are people who have declawed cats and fortunately many are ok, but there are so many things can go wrong, including infections and permanent damage. Consult a Veterinarian and even get a second opinion before thinking of this as an option for a cat.
Myth 12- Cats don't need grooming
Although cats do cleanse themselves, they should be handled regularly, groomed and checked for anything that may be amiss.
Myth 13-You can just let the cat out if you don't want to take care of them because can survive out there.
Truth-Animals, whether they be a cat, dog, bird, snake, frog should NOT be neglected or abandoned. That is what so many irresponsible and ignorant people do. Also, shelters are filled to the brim and many are kill-shelters meaning they have to destroy (kill) the loving, helpless animal simply due to lack of room. Imagine they did that with humans. Even no-kill shelters have to turn animals away due to lack of space. So if you can't commit to this very serious responsibility, avoid the process all together.
Myth 14-You don't have to "fix" cats
Truth-It is much healthier for the cat if it is neutered/spayed before a certain age. If a cat is too old to get altered, it will require adjustments and special care. However, you can still have a quality life for you and him/her. If you have multiple cats or he/she gets out and isn't fixed you will have a litter or two or three of kittens in an already over-populated world.
The truth is that it is us who are usually the problem when it comes to cats. We humans simply don't understand how cats communicate with us, what needs they have and the quality they can add to our life. Cats can make the most amazing companions for adults and children alike if you are a responsible guardian and use good old fashion common sense.
My Short Cat History
I had dogs as a young girl and will ALWAYS love them. In fact, I know I'll have one again one day. But in my early twenties, a childhood friend gave me a kitten. I never had a cat and didn't have a clue what to do with her. I heard all those things about cats and had my doubts but I love animals too much so gave her a full chance. That cat was Abby the Tabby (picture below and now passed away several years) got into my heart and never left.
Abby the Tabby, My first Cat Love
Lucky with a toy mouse, but yes he's actually hunted real ones in the past. After all he was in the streets for some time
Remembering Metatron and Sylvia while Donald Says Hello
My dear friend Barbara has shared some of her furbabies with us. Just because they pass away, doesn't mean they are not with us in spirit and in our hearts.
This cutie below is Metatron, below him is Donald who is still with his human companion. Sylvia is below. Aren't they beautiful? Are Metatron and Sylvia on the rainbow bridge? Do they become our guardian animals, staying around us when we need them the most emotionally? Yes to both these questions!!!
Metatron
His Human's Guardian Animal Now?
Donald
This Cutie is keeping Barbara good company
Here is Sylvia!
May this baby rest in Peace
Feature Rescue Fund
Wild Bird Fund Center (NYC)
http://wildbirdfund.com/wildlife-rehabilitation-center/
The new Wild Bird Fund Center has opened on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Each year, the Wild Bird Fund, a non-profit 501(c)(3), provides emergency care for over 1000 wild birds and animals in New York City. Working with
Animal General and the
Center for Avian and Exotic Medicine, two veterinary hospitals across the street, the Wild Bird Fund is the central resource in NYC for wildlife emergency care and rehabilitation. This critical work is accomplished through private donations and mostly volunteer labor.
New York City is a major stopover on the East Coast migratory flyway, and over 355 bird species live in the Big Apple or take refuge here during the spring and fall migrations. Many are injured by flying into buildings that have sprung up along these ancient migratory pathways or by cat attacks, vehicles, and human interference.
Do you know of a legitimate local rescue group or person we should feature? Send me the information at the email above.
Any animal rescue groups open after hours? Please share that with me and all who see countless of lost and abandoned animals at all hours of the day and night. Thank you!
This is Diana
Diana Navarro, M.S.
Psychic Empath, Professional Speaker Broadcast Host, Vocalist, Consultant, avid Animal Lover
Dianan4839@aol.com
