Cat Myths Debunked

Myth #1

• Cats don’t need to go to the veterinarian as often as dogs do.

82 million pet cats

72 million pet dogs

36% of cats go without veterinary care

Cats are masters of disguise

• “Hands off” personality

• Aloof

• Independent

• Self-sufficient

• Silent diseases

“Silent” Feline Illnesses

• High blood pressure• Kidney disease• Heart disease• Dental disease• Osteoarthritis• Overactive thyroid• Obesity

Signs of Feline Illness

• Nearly all feline illnesses look the same

• Hiding• Weight loss

– Except obese cats

• Poor appetite– Except cats with over-

active thyroid

Without an annual veterinary examination, significant illness will go

undiagnosed in your cat.

Myth #1

• Cats don’t need to go to the veterinarian as often as dogs do.

Myth #2

• All cats like fish

Kittens’ taste preference are influenced by their mother’s.

Cat taste preferences

• Cats prefer the taste of meat.

• Cats’ taste buds are insensitive to salt and sugar.

• Cats like food served at about the same temperature as a recently killed mouse.

Myth #2

• All cats like fish

Myth #3

• Cats love milk.

• Cats lack lactase• Tummy upset from

milk products• Lactose free products• Beware of calories

– No more than 30 calories = 1/3 cup low fat milk

Myth #3

• Cats love milk.

Myth #4 Black cats

are bad luck.

Why are black cats bad luck?

Medieval folk believed witches could turn into black cats.

Charles I of England was arrested the day

after his beloved black cat died.

Myth #4Black cats are not bad

luck. Adopt one today!

• The Animal Medical Center recommends your cat see the veterinarian at least once per year

• Cats should be fed a complete and balanced diet– Some cats like a fish diet– Milk may upset some cats’ stomachs

• A lucky black cat is one you adopt