Contrary to popular belief, most adult cats are lactose intolerant. Giving them milk can cause upset stomachs and digestive issues, so it’s better to stick with water and vet-approved food.

While it’s true that some cats hate water, that’s not the case for all of them. Certain breeds even enjoy swimming, and with patience, some cats can get used to baths or playing in water.

Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they need nutrients only found in meat. Feeding them a vegan or vegetarian diet can cause serious health problems.

Indoor cats need vaccines too. Even if they never go outside, they can be exposed to diseases brought in by people or other pets, so vaccinations help keep them safe.

Cats’ famous righting reflex allows them to twist midair and often land on their feet. However, they can still be injured — especially by falls from greater heights.

Whiskers help cats sense their surroundings and navigate in tight spaces, but they don’t control balance. Balance is mainly managed by the inner ear.

There’s no health benefit to allowing a cat to have a litter before spaying. In fact, spaying early can prevent serious illnesses like uterine infections and some cancers.

Cats purr when they’re happy, but they can also purr when they’re sick, scared, or in pain. Look at their overall body language to figure out what they’re feeling.

Fish isn’t a complete diet for cats. Too much fish can lead to nutritional deficiencies, so it’s better as an occasional treat rather than a staple food.

Despite the myth that cats can’t be trained, they respond very well to positive reinforcement. Clicker training, treats, and patience can help you teach them all kinds of tricks.

Cats don’t automatically know how to use a litter box. Keeping it clean, stress-free, and easily accessible can encourage them to use it properly.

Heartworm isn’t just a dog issue — cats can get it too. Preventive medication is important because treating heartworm in cats is difficult and often risky.

Cats might seem like they have nine lives because they’re agile and cautious, but they’re just as vulnerable as any other animal and can be injured or sick.

Pregnant women don’t need to give up their cats. They just need to take simple precautions like avoiding cleaning the litter box to reduce the risk of toxoplasmosis.

Dogs and cats can live happily together. It depends on their personalities and careful introductions, but many cats and dogs grow to be best friends.

Catnip is safe and enjoyable for most cats. Some may go crazy playing with it, some might get a bit aggressive, and others just chill out—it all depends on the individual.

You can’t tell a cat’s sex just by its color. It’s true that most calico and tortoiseshell cats are female, but that’s not a foolproof method.

Declawing is much more serious than a nail trim—it’s an amputation that can cause long-term pain and behavioral issues. Providing appropriate scratching posts is a better solution.

That old myth about cats smothering babies? It’s not true. Cats may cuddle up to babies for warmth, but they pose no threat to a baby’s breath. Supervision is always a good idea, though.

Cats are crepuscular, which means they’re most active at dawn and dusk. They’re not strictly nocturnal, though, so you’ll probably catch them napping most of the day.

Some cats don’t need or want to go outside. Indoor cats can lead rich, happy lives as long as they have plenty of enrichment like toys, scratching posts, and interaction.

Cats need specific nutrients like taurine and vitamin A that dog food doesn’t provide. Feeding a cat dog food can cause serious health problems over time.

Even if they never go outside, cats still need regular vet checkups. Routine visits help catch health problems early and keep your cat feeling their best.

Although they’re often thought of as aloof, cats can form deep bonds with humans and other animals. Many cats truly enjoy company and can feel lonely without regular interaction.