Many pet myths have been around for years. You may have heard them from friends or family, or even watched them on TV. A few of these myths might sound innocent enough, but they can easily lead to misunderstandings about how you should be caring for your pet. Knowing the truth about these myths can keep their pets happy and healthy. This list discusses 8 pet myths people still believe.
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Cats Always Land on Their Feet
Cats are known for landing on their feet. Although they have a ‘righting reflex’ – a biological ability to twist their bodies in mid-fall – this does not guarantee their safety. Cats may get injured if they fall from high places. This can even cause broken bones and internal damage. So you should keep your windows closed.
Dogs Only Wag Their Tails When They’re Happy
Most of us think that a wagging tail is an indicator of a happy dog. However, that is not always the case. Dogs wag their tails for different reasons. Tail wagging can be a sign of happiness or joy, but it can also indicate fear, anxiety and even aggression. You also can not forget about the speed and position of its tail. If it’s stiff and high — maybe the dog is being defensive.
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Goldfish Have a 3-Second Memory
Some people say goldfish only remember things for a couple of seconds. This is far from the truth. In fact, goldfish have a memory that lasts for hours (sometimes months). They can be familiar with the times you feed them and recognize other goldfish (even long after separation). They are much smarter than we give them credit for.
You Can’t Teach Old Dogs New Tricks
You might have heard this saying for a long time. But it’s not true. You can teach an old dog new tricks. It may be just a little slower – however, with some patience, they can learn new tricks or commands. Keep your training exercises short and sweet. Positive reinforcement, like treats and praise, helps keep them motivated. Dogs naturally enjoy learning at any age, especially if there is a reward involved.
Rabbits Only Eat Carrots
Cartoons have made us believe rabbits live on carrots. Carrots, however, are actually more of a rare treat for them. Carrots are high in sugar, which isn’t healthy for rabbits. They need a healthy diet, which includes hay, fresh greens, and water. And over-feeding on carrots may cause weight problems or digestive issues. Feeding them carrots once in a while is fine, but it should not be their main meal.
Pets Don’t Need Dental Care
Many people wrongly believe that pets do not need to have their teeth cleaned. This is a dangerous myth. People are not the only ones who can have dental problems. We all know that if gums and teeth are not given proper oral care, they can develop plaque, gum disease, and tooth loss. Regular tooth brushing or dental chews can be useful to prevent these issues. Regular vet visits also help to identify trouble early.
Cats Are Low-Maintenance Pets
Most believe that cats don’t need much attention. Many assume they’re fine on their own because they’re independent animals. But cats still need a lot of care. They need regular exercise to burn all the pent-up energy and reduce boredom. They also need grooming, like brushing their fur, to prevent hairballs and mats. Cats also need mental stimulation, or they might develop behavioral problems. Just because they’re quiet doesn’t mean they don’t need you.
Dogs Eat Grass Because They’re Sick
You probably heard that dogs will eat grass only when they are sick. Dogs will eat grass as it helps them vomit, but that alone is not the only reason they eat grass. Sometimes, dogs will eat grass just because they are bored or curious. Some may simply like the taste. Feeding on a little grass is not usually problematic. But if your dog is eating grass and vomiting all the time, it’s time for a vet visit.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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