Are cats untrainable, aquaphobic, evil brats? Read the surprising truth

Cats have quite a reputation in the pet world. Some call them cowardly, others insist they are evil, and quite a few consider them disloyal. But you know what, cats are none of it. It’s time to debunk some common myths about the four-legged enigmas.

Cats are untrainable

If you think cats can't be trained, think again. What about an indoor litter box they have used since kittenhood and managing their own walks?

Someone once said that cats can learn up to 250 commands, but they don’t want to. This captures the essence of felines purrfectly. Web MD Pets writes that, although these free-spirited creatures are not easily motivated and inclined to work for praise like dogs, they are actually receptive to various training methods.

Amazing Acro-Cats are just one example of what four-legged divos and divas are capable of.

Cats hate water

Any cat owner will tell you that this isn’t true. Cats enjoy playing with running water and often stay around when you're taking a bath. They aren’t exactly swimmers, but so aren’t some of the humans. It doesn’t mean the whole of humankind is aquaphobic.

In fact, as NewsWeek reports, some feline breeds embrace water. Savannahs, Bengals, and Maine Coons are known for being aqua-friendly, while the Turkish Van is even called The Swimming Cat.

Cats are evil

Partly due to their, at times, menacing look and their view as bad omens in some cultures, and of course a lot due to their portrayal as villains in Hollywood movies, cats have been stereotyped as evil creatures. Think of an infamous pair of Siamese cats in Disney's popular Lady and the Tramp. But millions of happy cat owners around the world are living proof of what purrfect pets cats can make. The fluffy felines are loyal and caring. Sadly, the stigma follows them, and their courage gets less media attention compared to dogs.

Cats are lazy

According to The Nest, our pet felines sleep 13 - 16 hours a day to stay healthy and happy. But, unfairly so, it makes them appear lazy. Humans don't need as much rest. If we did, we'd probably be called slackers too.

What do cats do remaining 8 - 11 hours? When outdoors, they walk for miles, socialise, hunt bugs and flies, and climb walls and trees. Indoors, they have fun by the water fountain and cat tree and play your games, unless they are boring. And then all the endless eating, grooming and bothering you. The opposite of lazy!

Cats are complicated, dogs are better

A cat can seem like a jigsaw puzzle with a million pieces. But there is nothing you cannot figure out with unconditional love, patience, and a bit of creativity. Getting fluent in your cat’s lingo is a must. Do you already know what your pet means when they meow or swing their tail?

If you compare cats with dogs, the felines are sophisticated, independent animals who know how to take care of their basic needs such as toilet, cleaning and walking. Many can even hunt down their own food if you let them. They know a thing or two about personal space and respect too.

Cats only seem complicated if you are not ready to go 100% in and understand them.

Read more:

⋙ Want to get more snuggle-time with your cat? Do this and thank us later

⋙ Surprising things you didn’t know your cat's tail was telling you

⋙ Cats love milk, here is why you shouldn't give it to them