Common Misconceptions About Cats

Could it be that some people who claim to hate cats are suffering from widely held misconceptions about these wonderful animals?  Many of the same people would likely enjoy having a cat as a pet just by changing their thinking a bit.  Cats have unique characteristics and cannot be compared to dogs...or turtles, for that matter.  Dog lovers may think of cats as unresponsive compared to dogs – but what they are seeing is the independent character of cats.

Let us dispel a few of these common misconceptions about cats.  Below are two that you may be familiar with:

“Cats have no personality and are very cold towards people”

Cats do not seem as outwardly affectionate as dogs but they do choose their moments.  When a cat decides it is time for petting and purring, they are loving pets.  Cats don't care whether you have time or not for a petting session – THEY decide when it is time to cuddle a bit.

And when cats do try to nestle up to your leg or try to get a pat on the back, cat critics again claim that they are just in it for the food or a treat.  But this is not true.  Cats love and appreciate the warmth and affection from their owners, just not as much as dogs do.  Cats love to hang out on your lap, lay around your table areas, or smuggle in most places next to you when they are ready to rest.

In my home office I have several pet beds around the room and they are seldom empty when I am working at my computer.  On occasion, I close the door to the office to avoid distraction and without fail opening the door reveals 2-3 cats sitting right outside waiting patiently for me.
Cats may not bound down the hall after you as you walk from one room another – but they will mosey on in there if you stay for a few minutes. 

“Cats take care of themselves and do not need human contact”

How often have you heard "my cat ran away".   A well cared for and loved cat does NOT "run away".  They may be tempted away by neighbors who offered them food and attention.  If you have moved to a new location and your cat disappears, the first place to check is your previous home.  The confusion of moving often results in the cat trying to get back to the place he knows.

A cat loves being part of a family.  Though they may be gone for a day or two at times, cats will almost always return home if they can.  Cats are low maintenance pets and don't need the level of commitment that dogs require.  However, a missing cat should be a cause for concern as they can be trapped, injured or simply lost on occasion.