Cat Myths and Misconceptions
As published in Laurel Magazine, April 2010
Contributed by Cassie Welsh, Executive Director
For centuries, cats have featured prominently in folklore, mythology, and history. These creatures have been portrayed as everything from soft and sweet purring pets to prowling and perilous killers that can suck the breath out of a baby and smother it. So, what is superstition and what is true?
Cats have nine lives
One of the most famous myths and misconceptions about cats is that they have nine lives. Although no one knows exactly how this myth originated, the number nine is historically a lucky number because it is the “trinity of trinities”. The most likely origin for this myth is that a cat’s agility and reflexes allow it to escape what looks to be certain death – over and over again.
All calico cats are female
Calico cats – with black, orange, and white coats – are usually females. Male calicos are possible, but rare, because it comes down to genetics. Female cats have two X chromosomes, while males have one X and one Y. The chromosome that controls black and orange coats is an X chromosome, and a separate X chromosome controls white coats. Male calicos have a rare XXY combination, and the unusual genetics leaves them sterile.
All cats hate water
Cats are self-cleaners. They don’t like to use water in cleaning, and being immersed in a bath leaves them cold and vulnerable. While most cats prefer to stay warm and dry, there are some cats that love to play in water or the rain. Dripping faucets and wet shower floors are playgrounds for water-loving cats.
Cats always land on their feet
Probably the most famous of all myths and misconceptions about cats is that they always land on their feet. Cats have extremely flexible backbones and an innate sense of balance and direction. They can twist like a gymnast in midair and quickly right themselves. Given enough time to rotate their bodies, cats will land on their feet nearly every time. But, that doesn’t mean that some cats won’t get hurt and sustain injuries from falls.
Photo caption:
There are many colorful and crazy myths and misconceptions about cats.
This entry was posted on Thursday, April 15th, 2010 at 4:03 am. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
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