Garlic against fleas? Only one vet visit, per year? Milk is good for cats? These are all outdated pieces of advice that once used to be accepted, but today can cause serious harm to our pets.

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Some of the tips about caring for cats are still passed down from generation to generation – but unfortunately, many of them are no longer valid. With the advancement of science, the rules of cat keeping have also changed, so what once seemed harmless has now been revealed to be potentially dangerous for our beloved companions. Let’s take a look at which “good pieces of advice” we should forget right away – and what we should do instead, so that our furry friend can truly be happy, healthy and balanced!

Tradition And The “Reliable” Internet

Many pieces of advice given to cat owners are now outdated – or even dangerous. Whether they have been passed down as family traditions or spread across the internet, these should always be treated with caution, and we should check them thoroughly before applying them. If we want to be sure, we should rather ask for advice from a vet or a trusted trainer. Because just because something has been done for years doesn’t mean it’s safe or effective. As science progresses, it becomes increasingly clear that scientifically grounded, evidence-based care is the key to a happier life.

Here Are The Tips – And The Modern Approach!

1.) Milk Is A Good Treat For Cats

Although in films we often see our purring friends happily lapping up milk, in reality it is not good for them at all. We now know that most cats are lactose intolerant, and cow’s milk can cause digestive issues, diarrhoea, and even more serious problems. If you still wish to give your cat a milky treat, lactose-free cat milk – available in any pet shop – is a safe alternative.

It is a proven fact that cats are lactose intolerant

2.) Dry Food Cleans The Teeth

• In The Past: It was once believed that dry food helps remove tartar and plaque, but research shows that it does not provide any significant advantage over wet food.
• Today: The exception is special dental care feeds, which are specifically designed for this purpose. Their size and structure are truly suitable for fulfilling this function.

3.) Cats Only Need A Vet When They’re Ill

Preventive care is just as important as treatment. Annual or semi-annual check-ups can help detect problems in time and keep us up to date with other important matters such as vaccinations or parasite control. These occasions also give us the chance to ask questions and discuss feeding, behaviour or care-related topics with a professional.

The frequency of vet visits depends on the tabby’s age, health condition and lifestyle

4.) Garlic Repels Fleas

Today we can only hold our heads, this idea is more than dangerous. In reality, garlic, like all onion species, is toxic to cats even in small amounts. It can damage their red blood cells, leading to anaemia. Moreover, the theory — that the animal “perspires” the smell of garlic — doesn’t work either, since animals do not sweat like humans do; their heat regulation is entirely different. So, it cannot repel fleas!

5.) Indoor Cats Don’t Need Flea Treatment

This misconception is false because fleas and their eggs can easily enter the home — on shoe soles, another animal, or even through the air. Regular, year-round flea protection and parasite control are essential even for indoor cats. If we need help choosing the best product, our vet can advise us.

It’s essential to maintain regular flea and parasite protection and to comb the cat frequently with a flea comb

6.) You Don’t Need To Brush A Cat’s Teeth

Most owners usually skip this step, yet regular tooth brushing is the best way to prevent tartar and gum disease. Dental care includes preventive measures such as brushing, providing various dental cleaning aids, the right diet, possibly water additives, and regular veterinary dental check-ups and professional cleanings. Dental issues can cause pain, tooth loss, and even heart or kidney problems. This is not a luxury, it’s basic care.

7.) Cats Can’t Be Trained

Oh, yes they can! Cats are trainable, and it’s actually good for them. It also strengthens the bond between the human and the cat, and develops the animal both mentally and physically, helping them stay healthy and fit even as they age. If we decide to try, we should start with simple tricks, such as the “sit” command. Hold a treat above the cat’s head and slowly move it back; as they follow it, they’ll sit down, then say “sit” and reward them.

Training cats is now completely accepted

Why These Bad Habits Persist

• Family Traditions: Many pieces of advice are passed down through generations, so they naturally seem trustworthy, after all, our family always tells the truth.
• Old Books: Many older sources are still in circulation today, although modern experts already consider the methods described in them outdated.
• Internet: Myths and unverified news spread quickly on social media, without professional backing.

How To Tell If Something Is False Information

• If it has no scientific basis or cited professional source. Always rely only on credible experts!
• It’s also suspicious if it offers solutions that are too simple – “quick miracle cures” don’t exist.
• Any methods based on intimidation or pain are always outdated and cruel.
• Universal solutions: what works for one animal may not be safe for another.
• When it seems too good to be true – it probably is.

Myths spread quickly on social media

Although many old pieces of advice still circulate in public awareness today, it’s important to recognise which ones are still valid. Modern, scientifically grounded animal care is not only safer and more effective, it also helps ensure that our pets’ lives are long and balanced.

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