Cats are quite enigmatic creatures. If you are fortunate enough to share your Jensen Beach home with a feline, you likely have quite a few stories to tell us about your kitty’s endearing habits or amusing behavior. If so, you aren’t the first, and you won’t be the last. These graceful, enchanting furballs have been our friends and companions for a very, very long time. Over the ages, several misconceptions and myths have formed around our feline friends, including some which have even tarnished Kitty’s reputation. Here are a few widespread myths about cats debunked.

Cats love Milk

Despite the plethora of images and references to cats drinking milk, many cats don’t even like milk. Some kitties have a form of lactose intolerance, and get upset stomachs or diarrhea from drinking milk. There are cats that do enjoy a little milk here and there, and don’t seem to have any issues with it. If your furball is one of these, give her the treat very sparingly, and only in tiny amounts; a few occasional tablespoons at most.

Black Cats are Unlucky

The myth that black cats are unlucky has been around for centuries. This superstition is still perpetrated today; for instance, black cats are a common theme in Halloween décor. The truth is, black cats tend to have remarkably sweet dispositions and absolutely do not bring bad luck.

Only Happy Cats Purr

While cats do purr when they’re content, as you may well know, cats purr for other reasons as well. Cats sometimes purr in greeting one another. Sick or distressed cats also have been known to purr. Cats purr at a frequency known to promote healing, so this behavior may be a self-induced healing or soothing mechanism.

Cats are Dangerous for Pregnant Women

While there is a serious risk related to toxoplasmosis, which can be present in cat feces, basic precautions can significantly reduce the risk. Changing Kitty’s litter twice daily, always while wearing gloves, is the best way to reduce the risk of contamination.

Cats use their Whiskers for Balance

Whiskers act kind of like tiny antennae, helping Kitty gather information about her surroundings. Cats use those cute little whiskers to detect wind speed and air currents. This helps them navigate their surroundings and monitor the movement of nearby animals. Cats also use their whiskers to judge whether or not they can fit through small openings. As for balance, they use their tails for that.

Please visit our site for more articles and tips from your Jensen Beach vet.