Social media, Internet searches, and word of mouth spread information faster than ever before. But as you’ve probably noticed, just because something is trending on TikTok or Instagram doesn’t make it true. Let’s tackle some popular pet care myths to separate fact from fiction—and keep your furry friends healthy and happy.
Myth: Dog or Cat Saliva Has Healing Properties
The notion that pet saliva has healing properties is nothing more than an old wives’ tale, making this one of those false but common pet misconceptions. Allowing your pet to lick their wounds—or yours—can actually:
- Slow healing by causing continuous trauma to the wound
- Damage the surrounding tissue
- Introduce bacteria, leading to infection
While dog saliva was once thought to have antiseptic qualities, modern veterinary medicine debunks this idea. It’s best to keep wounds clean and covered and consult your vet for proper care.
Myth: Garlic Will Get Rid of Fleas, Worms, and Other Parasites
Despite its popularity in home remedies, garlic is not a safe or effective way to treat parasites in pets. In fact, garlic can be toxic to both dogs and cats, particularly in high doses. Stick to veterinarian-recommended parasite preventives to keep your pets safe and pest-free and to avoid this false notion in pet wellness care.
Myth: Cats Always Land on Their Feet
This one has a nugget of truth. While cats are agile and often capable of righting themselves during a fall, this ability isn’t foolproof.
When a cat falls from a short height, has an unexpected fall, or has health issues that affect balance, their self-righting ability can be impacted. This can result in serious injuries. Protect your feline friend by keeping windows secure and providing safe climbing structures.
Myth: Dogs Are Color Blind
This is only partially true. Dogs aren’t limited to seeing in black and white. Research suggests that our canine companions can see colors similarly to people with red-green colorblindness. While their world isn’t as colorful as ours, they can still perceive a range of hues and rely on their other senses for navigating their environment.
Myth: Purring Means a Cat Is Happy
The notion that a purring cat is a happy cat isn’t true. While content felines often do purr, cats may also purr when scared, stressed, injured, or sick. Experts theorize that purring may serve as a form of self-soothing, but its exact purpose remains a mystery.
Myth: Milk is Good For Cats
Despite popular depictions, milk isn’t a healthy treat for cats. Most cats are lactose intolerant, and consuming milk can lead to digestive upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. Stick to fresh water and veterinarian-approved treats for your feline friend.
Myth: Indoor Pets Don’t Need To Go to the Vet
This pet care myth is very untrue! Indoor pets aren’t immune to health risks. Airborne illnesses, rabies-carrying wildlife, and contaminants brought in on shoes or clothing can all pose dangers. Regular wellness exams and prevention like vaccinations, and screenings are crucial for detecting and preventing health issues, even for indoor pets.
Myth: Spaying/Neutering Will Change a Pet’s Personality
Spaying or neutering won’t alter your pet’s core personality. These procedures can, however, reduce certain unwanted behaviors like urine marking or roaming. They also provide significant health benefits, like lowering the risk of certain cancers.
Pet Insurance Isn’t Worth It
Veterinary care costs can add up, especially in emergencies. Pet insurance helps alleviate financial stress, which makes it easier to prioritize your pet’s health. It’s worth exploring coverage options to find a plan that works for your family.
When it comes to pet care, separating fact from fiction is very important. If you ever come across advice online or hear something from a friend that raises questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Shiloh Veterinary Hospital. We’re here to provide accurate information and keep your pets healthy for years to come!