9. Table Scraps are Okay for My Cat

Did you know that a piece of cheese for a 10lb cat is like eating almost three full chocolate bars? Table scraps are empty calories for cats. They need precisely balanced nutrition for their specific life stage and special needs to remain healthy. A cat food like Hill’s Science Plan is great because it gives cats exactly what they need without any excess nutrients that might be harmful.

10. My Cat Flicks Their Tail, They Must Be Happy

Maybe…you never really know with cats. Typically, cats will wag or flick their tail when they are upset or thinking. Cats communicate via complex body language and vocal expressions like humans. Learning to read what your cat is telling you will go a long way in helping build your relationship.

11. I Don’t Need to Exercise My Cat

You can and should exercise your cat. Cats need mental stimulation as well as physical activity. Cats should be kept indoors for their safety but there are plenty of games and toys to keep them active and at a healthy weight.

12. Pregnant Women Avoid Cats Due to Possible Disease Infection (Toxoplasmosis)?

Expectant mothers can interact with cats; it's the litter box that's a no-no. Toxoplasmosis is spread through faeces and litter. As long as pregnant women avoid contact with the litter box and have someone else clean the litter box area, there should be no problems. So feel free to continue mothering your cat while you're waiting for your baby.

13. Without Whiskers, Does a Cat Lose All Sense of Balance?

It's hard to imagine how an idea like this got started! Cats use their whiskers as "feelers," but not to maintain balance. How a cat positions its whiskers can also be an indication of mood. Whatever you do, don't cut a cat's whiskers or pull on them. Whiskers are rooted deep in the skin where nerve endings are abundant.

14. Got Milk? Got Cats? Can Your Cats Have Milk?

A cute cat quietly lapping at a saucer of milk. What could be more natural? The truth is milk packs a lot of punch for such a small animal. Many cats get diarrhoea from milk and too much milk can quickly add up to an obesity problem. Your best bet is sticking with well-balanced nutrition formulated specifically for cats. Save the milk for your cereal.

15. If a Cat is Eating Grass, It Means They are Sick

While several theories about animal grass consumption exist, veterinarians have no proven answers. However, research indicates an amazing possibility: animals may just like to eat grass. So don't panic if your cat nibbles at the lawn from time to time. If the nibbling turns into a daily feast, talk to your veterinarian.

16. If You Put Garlic on Your Cat's Food, It Will Help Get Rid of Their Worms

While putting garlic on your cat's food may give your cat the impression you are a gourmet Italian chef, garlic may cause anaemia in cats and should be avoided.

Once you separate fact from fiction, you can help your feline family member live an active, healthy life. And don't worry about cats losing their mystery—they'll always be adorably peculiar! As long as you know where their real challenges are, you'll never fail to entertain each other.

Christine O'Brien Christine O'Brien

Christine O'Brien is a writer, mom, and long-time cat parent whose two Russian Blues rule the house. Her work also appears in Care.com, What to Expect, and Fit Pregnancy, where she writes about pets, pregnancy, and family life. Find and follow her on Instagram and Twitter @brovelliobrien.