A recent study has highlighted a surprising gap in knowledge among cat owners about their furry companions. While a staggering 92% of cat owners consider themselves well-versed in feline care, a closer examination tells a different story. This survey, which gathered insights from 2,000 cat owners, indicates that many might not be as knowledgeable as they think.
According to the findings, despite high self-ratings in feline care, with an average confidence score of four out of five, many cat owners regularly forget essential tasks. For instance, they often fail to refill their cat’s water bowl twice a week and even skip feeding them three times per week. These oversights could have significant impacts on their pets’ well-being.
The study also unearthed some startling facts about common feline misconceptions:
Only 17% of owners knew that cats have 18 toes.
Nearly half (46%) were unaware that many cats are lactose intolerant, which challenges the traditional image of cats enjoying a bowl of milk.
More than half (56%) did not know that cats purr not only out of pleasure but also distress.
A mere 20% were aware that cats share 96% of their DNA with tigers.
These gaps extend to crucial aspects of cat health, such as hydration:
Although 86% of respondents believed their cats were adequately hydrated, 75% did not know the recommended water intake for cats—about one ounce per pound of body weight per day.
47% were not aware that cats prefer drinking running water over stagnant water.
Despite 59% believing that filtered water is healthier, only 34% routinely provide it.
To complement this study, here are 10 lesser-known but fascinating facts about domestic cats that might further enlighten even the most seasoned cat owners:
Whisker Fatigue: Cats can experience whisker fatigue. Their whiskers are so sensitive that they can get overwhelmed by constant contact with surfaces.
Third Eyelid: Cats have a third eyelid called the haw, which is usually only visible when a cat is unwell.
Zigzag Walking: If a cat walks in a zigzag pattern around your legs, it’s not just seeking attention but also marking you with its scent glands located around its face.
Color Perception: Cats don’t see the world in the same vibrant colours humans do. They have fewer cone receptors and see in shades mostly of blue and green.
Sandpaper Tongue: A cat’s tongue is covered in tiny, hook-like structures that help them groom themselves by catching loose fur and dirt.
Survival Instincts: Cats instinctively hide signs of illness as a survival mechanism, which makes it challenging for owners to know when their pet is unwell.
Territorial Sounds: Cats use over 100 different sounds to communicate, compared to dogs, who use about 10.
Night Vision: Cats have excellent night vision, allowing them to see at light levels six times lower than what a human needs.
Flexible Bodies: A cat’s spine is extremely flexible, allowing them to fit through any space into which they can fit their heads.
Jumping Abilities: Cats can jump up to six times their body length in a single leap.
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