Cat Myths and Facts

Myth: All calico cats are female. Fact: It is very rare for a calico cat to be a male because the gene for calico color is a sex-linked trait and is attached to the X chromosome. These males have no significant value in a breeding program and are often sterile.

Myth: My pet cat is a purebred. Fact: Unless the cat was purchased from a pedigreed breeder, it is most likely not of any one specific breed. If your cat resembles a specific breed, it is said to be “(breed) appearing”

Myth: Cats always land on their feet Fact: The ability of cats to land on their feet is a result of their fine sense of balance and body position. They land in a position to immediately run, jump, or move in any direction that might be necessary.

Myth: Cats should drink milk everyday. Fact: Most cats like milk, but do not need it if properly nourished. Many will get diarrhea if they drink too much milk.

Myth: Cats cannot get rabies. Fact: Most warm-blooded mammals, including cats, bats, skunks and ferrets, can carry rabies. Like dogs, cats should be vaccinated regularly according to local laws.

Myth: Indoor cats cannot get diseases. Fact: Cats still are exposed to organisms that are carried through the air or brought in on a cat owner's shoes or clothing.

Myth: Putting garlic on a pet's food will get rid of worms. Fact: Garlic may make the animal's food taste better but has no effect on worms. The most effective way to treat worms is by medication prescribed by a veterinarian.

Myth: Pregnant women should not own cats. Fact: Some cats can be infected with a disease called toxoplasmosis, which occasionally can be spread to humans through cat litter boxes. Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease that causes serious problems in unborn babies.

Myth: A cat's sense of balance is in its whiskers. Fact: Cats use their whiskers as "feelers" but not to maintain their balance.

Myth: Animals heal themselves by licking their wounds. Fact: Such licking actually can slow the healing process and further damage the wound.