10 Pet Health Myths You Should Stop Believing

Ever feel like the pet advice scene is a bit of a wild zoo? You might find yourself nodding along to something you read online without knowing if it’s actually true. That’s exactly how pet health myths get passed around. Some sound totally believable, while others are so silly you’d think nobody falls for them. But trust me, they do. And the scary part is that some of these pet health myths can actually harm your furry best friend.

Let’s walk through ten of the most common pet health myths and set the record straight in plain, simple language.

Myth One: You don’t see fleas on your pet, so they must not be there.

Fleas are sneaky. Ninety-five percent of the flea population doesn’t even live on your pet but in your home. Eggs, larvae, and pupae hide out in your carpet or in the corners of your house. So even if you don’t spot any fleas, that doesn’t mean they’re not around. If your pet is scratching a lot or you notice tiny black specks in their fur, those are signs that fleas might be there. Year-round flea prevention is the only way to keep your pet safe from these tiny troublemakers.

Myth Two: Cats are cheaper to care for than dogs.

This one sounds logical. Cats are smaller, so their bills should be smaller, right? Not exactly. Vet visits cost about the same no matter the size of the pet. X-rays, blood tests, and IV fluids are charged at the same rate whether your cat weighs eight pounds or your dog weighs eighty. The only real price difference shows up in medications since cats often need smaller doses.

Myth Three: Pets misbehave out of spite.

It’s tempting to think your cat peed outside the litter box or your dog chewed your shoes just to get back at you, but pets don’t feel spite or revenge. They also don’t feel guilt, even if their expressions make it seem that way. In reality, many behaviors we label as “bad” are often linked to stress, discomfort, or even health problems. 

For example, a cat that suddenly starts avoiding the litter box may be dealing with a urinary tract infection, bladder stones, or another painful condition. Dogs that destroy furniture or shoes might be experiencing separation anxiety or digestive discomfort. Instead of assuming your pet is acting out on purpose, look for clues that point to a medical or emotional issue. A checkup with your vet can help rule out health problems and give you a clearer picture of what your pet is trying to communicate.

Myth Four: Dogs eat grass to throw up.

You’ve probably heard this one a million times. While some dogs do vomit after eating grass, most of the time they just enjoy snacking on greenery. It could be the texture or the taste, but grass eating is usually harmless. If your dog is eating a lot of grass and frequently vomiting, that’s when it’s time to check in with the vet.

Myth Five: Pets don’t need checkups if they look healthy.

This is one of the most dangerous pet health myths. Early signs of illness are often invisible to the naked eye. Waiting until your pet looks sick could mean missing out on catching something early when it’s easier (and cheaper) to treat. Annual vet visits are about prevention, not just fixing problems. They help you stay one step ahead so your pet enjoys a longer, healthier life.

Myth Six: Indoor pets don’t need flea prevention.

This myth gets a lot of cat parents in trouble. Fleas don’t respect closed doors. They can hitch a ride into your house on your socks, your pant leg, or even on a visitor. Once they’re inside, they can lay eggs in your carpet or bedding. Indoor pets are not immune, which is why consistent prevention is still important.

Myth Seven: A warm or dry nose means your pet is sick.

This is one of those old-school pet health myths that just won’t quit. A pet’s nose changes temperature and moisture throughout the day. A warm or dry nose by itself doesn’t signal illness. What really matters is your pet’s energy, appetite, and behavior. If they seem off or are showing other symptoms, that’s when you call your vet.

Myth Eight: Purring always means a cat is happy.

We’d love to believe that every purr is a sign of joy, but cats are complicated creatures. Sometimes they purr when they’re nervous or in pain. In fact, purring can be a self-soothing behavior. If your cat is purring but also hiding, not eating, or acting strangely, don’t assume they’re happy. Body language tells the full story.

Myth Nine: A wagging tail always means a happy dog.

Tail wags are a lot more nuanced than people think. A fast, loose wag may mean excitement, but a slow, stiff wag could signal tension or aggression. Even the direction of the wag matters. Dogs wag more to the right when they’re relaxed and to the left when they’re anxious. Always look at the whole body, not just the tail, before making assumptions.

Myth Ten: It’s fine to share human food with pets in small amounts.

This is one of the most common and dangerous pet health myths. A lot of well-meaning pet parents slip their pets table scraps, assuming a tiny bite won’t hurt. The truth is that many human foods, such as onions, grapes, and chocolate, can cause serious harm even in small doses. While the occasional plain carrot or piece of chicken is safe, always check before sharing your snack with your furry friend.

Now you know the truth behind these ten pet health myths. The bottom line is that misinformation spreads quickly, but knowledge is the best way to keep your pet safe. When you’re armed with facts, you can make smarter choices for their health and happiness.

And here’s one last smart choice to think about: protecting your pet with pet insurance is one of the best ways to prepare for the unexpected. Vet visits, accidents, and illnesses can happen when you least expect them. Pet insurance helps you focus on your pet’s care instead of worrying about the cost.

Give your furry friend the protection they deserve and get a free pet insurance quote today.

References:

1. https://www.petmd.com/general-health/9-pet-health-myths-you-should-stop-believing
2. https://audubonah.com/blog/2023/12/29/debunking-common-myths-about-pet-care/
3. https://pethelpful.com/pet-news/vet-debunks-dog-myths-tiktok

The information contained on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's health care or treatment plan.

The authors of this blog are not veterinarians and do not claim to be experts in pet health. The information provided here is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from reputable sources. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

We encourage you to do your own research and consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet's health.