By East Meadow Veterinary Center | May 13, 2026

Cats are one of the most misunderstood domesticated animals.

Cats are mysterious animals. Their independence and free-spirited nature has led to many myths and misconceptions over the years. Many people, even cat owners and cat lovers, believe common myths and misconceptions about cats. Luckily you for, East Meadow Veterinary Center is here to set the record straight! The following is a list from veterinarian in North Bellmore of the truth about popular myths and misconceptions about cats:

Myth #1. Cats like to be left alone.

Cats are very independent, but that doesn’t mean that they are solitary animals. In fact, if you leave your cat alone for too long, the separation can be incredibly stressful for them. Cats get separation anxiety, just like dogs, but the symptoms present themselves a bit differently. Separation anxiety in cats often manifests itself in behaviors, such as defecation or urination outside of the litter box, vomiting, vocalization, lack of appetite, excessive grooming, an excited greeting when you come home and anxiety when you depart.

Myth #2. Cats that scratch are mean.

That fact of the matter is that cats scratch for a variety of reasons. Some cats scratch while playing, some scratch to let you know that they are uncomfortable. If you find that your otherwise sweet cat is scratching you more often, it could be a sign of an underlying medical issue that is causing them pain.

Myth #3. Declawing and trimming nails are the same thing.

Declawing isn’t the same thing as trimming at all. It is a surgical procedure that involves amputating the first joint of each of the cat’s toes.

Learn about more popular myths and misconceptions about cats when you stay tuned for our next blog.

In our last blog, our veterinary clinic in Levittown revealed the truth about a few popular myths and misconceptions about cats. If you haven’t had a chance to read it yet, now is the time! If you have been waiting to learn about more myths and misconceptions about cats, you’ve come to the right place! So, without further ado, the following is our list of the last few myths and misconceptions about cats:

Myth #4. Cats can be vegan or vegetarian too!

When some pet owners make major dietary changes, like giving up meat, they force those dietary changes on their animals as well. However, it is important to note that cats are carnivores! They need protein from meat, and while other sources of protein may sustain you, they won’t sustain your cat.

Myth #5. Cats are nocturnal.

Cats aren’t nocturnal, they are crepuscular. That means that they are most active at dawn and dusk, the ideal time for hunting. A cat’s eyes are constructed to allow them to see clearly in low light, however, they can’t see when it is completely dark.

Myth #6. Cats can’t be trained.

When cats are between two and seven weeks old, they are learning all about their environment. During this time, you should work hard to adapt your cat to their environment and foster bonds with your family and other pets. Cats can be trained, just like dog can, but you should know that cats don’t respond well to punishment. The most effective way to train a cat is through positive reinforcement.