The Truth Behind 5 Common Myths About Cats
http://my.xfinity.com/blogs/lifestyle/2015/05/15/the-truth-behind-5-common-myths-about-cats/
Are cats capable of mating with bunnies? Is it true that neutering a Siamese cat will uncross his eyes? Many myths about cats abound, but sometimes it can be hard to distinguish fiction from fact. Here, we set the record straight on five of the most common cat myths. (Oh, and the answer to those first two questions? No and no.)
Myth #1: Cats Can’t Swim and Hate Getting Wet
Perhaps you haven’t met a Bengal or Turkish Van — two breeds known for being eager to join their owners in the shower or bathtub. Turkish Vans even sport the nickname Swimming Cats; many members of this smart, athletic breed love to fetch, swim, jump and even perform doglike tricks. If you have a Bengal or Turkish Van, make sure you keep bathroom doors shut and toilet lids down. They tend to like to flush the toilet and drop objects into the toilet bowl.
Myth #2: Milk is a Good Treat for Cats
Most cats are actually lactose intolerant, so drinking milk can cause gastrointestinal disturbances, such as diarrhea and vomiting. Generally, it’s best to avoid giving your cat any people food — including milk.
Myth #3: Cats Only Purr When Content
There is something almost magical and beckoning about a cat purring on one’s lap — but cats purr for reasons beyond contentment. Newborn kittens are born blind, so a mother cat will purr to orient her kittens toward her at feeding time. Cats also purr when they are sick — or even in the process of dying — as a self-calming technique.