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Writer's pictureMarcy Santos

Myths and Misconceptions: Cats

Updated: Jan 21, 2021

Many of us have cats we know and love in our lives, and we have probably heard some (if not all) of these myths and misconceptions about cats in the past. Below are 5 common misconceptions about cats.


Cats Always Land On Their Feet

Although it is true that cats are remarkably agile, it is not true that they always land on their feet. However, cats do have what is called a righting reflex. Because of this reflex they will often land on their feet if they fall from any height. Despite this, though, cats can and do fall and not land on their feet. Be sure to keep windows closed any fix any screens to prevent your cat from falling.

Cats Purr When They Are Happy

If you have ever spent time petting a cat, you probably hear them purring away. Cats often purr when they are happy, especially when they are getting attention, love, and some much-appreciated chin scratches. Happiness is not the only reason that cats purr, though! Purring releases endorphins for cats, so cats purr to self-soothe. Sometimes cats purr when they are sick, or scared, or even to comfort their kittens.

Cats Cannot Be Trained

It is more challenging to train a cat, because they don’t have a strong instinct to please. However, cats, just like dogs, will perform tricks when rewarded for their behavior. Cats can be trained to sit, come when called, and even to walk on a leash!

Cats are Nocturnal

Cats are not nocturnal, they are crepuscular. That means that they are most active at dawn and dusk. Biologically, this is when cats typically would hunt for food. It is likely that cats will adapt to your routine somewhat, but they will probably still maintain a bit of their crepuscular behaviors and tendencies, such as being more playful in the evenings or mornings.

Black Cats are Unlucky

Many have probably heard that if a black cat crosses your path, it is considered unlucky. Of course, this is not true, but unfortunately it has made it harder for black cats to get adopted. There is even a special day created to celebrate black cats and help them get adopted to overcome this superstition. Interestingly, in some other countries black cats mean good luck instead of bad luck.

What other myths have you heard about cats? Were you surprised by any of these?

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