We’ve all heard them: from a friend, a neighbour, a well-meaning relative, or a very confident stranger at the park. Some pet myths are harmless, but others can lead to real problems for our pets.
So we’ve rounded up 20 of the most common ones we hear and set the record straight. Grab a cuppa, test yourself with our quick quiz, and see how many you believed. No judgement; some of these fool even the most devoted pet owners.
Quick quiz: true or false?
- A warm, dry nose means a dog is ill.
- Cats love a saucer of milk.
- One human year equals seven dog years.
- Garlic is a natural flea repellent.
- Neutering will make my pet fat.
Got your answers? They’re all myths. Read on (and tap each myth) to find out why.
Health and the body
Myth 01: A warm, dry nose means my dog is ill.
The truth: A dog’s nose can change from wet to dry and warm to cool many times a day, for example after a nap or in a warm room. It isn’t a reliable sign of health. Look at the bigger picture instead: their energy, appetite, breathing, toilet habits and behaviour. If you’re worried about your dog, call us.
Myth 02: Cats love a saucer of milk.
The truth: Many adult cats are lactose intolerant, so milk can give them an upset tummy. Fresh, clean water is all your cat needs to drink.
Myth 03: One human year equals seven dog years.
The truth: It’s not that simple. Dogs age very quickly in their first couple of years, and after that the rate varies a lot depending on their size and breed. Large breeds tend to age faster than small breeds. Ask us about your pet’s life stage and what it means for their care.
Myth 04: Indoor cats don’t need vaccinations or flea treatment.
The truth: Indoor cats have a lower risk, but not zero. Fleas and some viruses can be carried in on clothes, shoes or other pets, and indoor cats do sometimes escape. Most catteries also require up-to-date vaccinations. We can advise on the right level of protection for your cat.
Myth 05: It’s better for a female pet to have one litter before she’s neutered.
The truth: There’s no evidence that having a litter benefits a pet’s health or behaviour, and pregnancy and birth carry their own risks. Speak to us about the best time to neuter your pet.
Myth 06: Neutering will make my pet fat.
The truth: Neutering can reduce how much energy a pet needs, so they may need slightly less food afterwards. Weight gain isn’t inevitable, though. With the right portion sizes and plenty of exercise, neutered pets can stay perfectly trim. We’re happy to advise on feeding after neutering.
Myth 07: Dogs only eat grass when they’re feeling poorly.
The truth: Lots of healthy dogs eat grass simply because they seem to like it. However, if your dog suddenly starts eating a lot of grass, or is also vomiting, off their food or seems unwell, seek veterinary advice.
Behaviour and body language
Myth 08: A wagging tail always means a happy dog.
The truth: A wagging tail shows that a dog is emotionally aroused, which could mean happy and excited, but it can also mean anxious, unsure or on edge. A stiff, high, fast wag with a tense body can mean “please give me some space”. Always look at the whole dog, including the ears, eyes, mouth and posture.
Myth 09: My dog looks guilty, so he knows he’s done something wrong.
The truth: That famous ‘guilty look’ (ears back, eyes averted, tail low) is generally thought to be a response to our tone and body language, rather than a sign that a dog feels guilty about what they did earlier. Telling a dog off after the event can confuse and worry them. Rewarding the behaviour you do want works far better.
Myth 10: A purring cat is always a happy cat.
The truth: Cats often purr when they’re content, but they can also purr when they’re stressed, unwell or in pain. Context is everything. If your cat is purring but also hiding, off their food or behaving differently, have them checked.
Food, home remedies and safety
Myth 11: Garlic is a natural way to keep fleas away.
The truth: Garlic is toxic to cats and dogs, and it isn’t a reliable way to prevent fleas. Please don’t use it. Ask us about safe, effective flea treatments that are right for your pet.
Myth 12: A little bit of chocolate won’t hurt.
The truth: How dangerous chocolate is depends on the type, the amount and the size of your pet. A small amount of dark chocolate or cocoa can be serious for a small dog. Because it’s so hard to judge at home, if your pet has eaten any chocolate, call us for advice straight away on 01843 808344.
Myth 13: Rabbits are easy, low-maintenance starter pets, and carrots are their main food.
The truth: Rabbits are complex, sociable animals that can live for many years. They need company, lots of space and a diet made up mainly of hay. Carrots are sugary and should only be an occasional treat. Even when rabbits are ‘for the children’, an adult needs to be responsible for their care.
Myth 14: Letting a pet lick their wound helps it heal.
The truth: Licking can introduce infection, delay healing and even reopen wounds or stitches. This is why your vet may recommend a protective collar or body suit after surgery. Please keep it on until your vet tells you otherwise.
Older pets and pain
Myth 15: My pet’s just slowing down. It’s old age.
The truth: Slowing down is often caused by something treatable, such as arthritis pain, dental disease or another medical condition. Old age is not a disease. Book a check-up and seek veterinary advice, as many older pets feel much better with the right care.
Myth 16: You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.
The truth: Older dogs can absolutely learn new things! Gentle, reward-based training is a great way to keep an older dog’s mind active and strengthen your bond. Just keep sessions short, and adapt anything physical to suit their joints.
Myth 17: Cats always land on their feet, so falls aren’t dangerous.
The truth: Cats can be seriously injured in falls, including from open windows and balconies. Window restrictors and screens can help keep them safe. If your cat has had a fall, call us, even if they seem fine.
Myth 18: Dogs’ mouths are cleaner than ours.
The truth: Dogs’ mouths contain lots of bacteria, just like ours do, and some can be passed to people. Dental disease is also very common in dogs. Wash your hands after handling your pet, and don’t let them lick open cuts or wounds.
Myth 19: If my pet was in pain, they’d cry or whimper.
The truth: Most pets hide pain very well. The signs are often subtle: changes in behaviour, posture, appetite or grooming, reluctance to move or jump, or being grumpier than usual. If you think something has changed, seek veterinary advice.
Myth 20: Bones are natural, so they’re safe for dogs.
The truth: Cooked bones can splinter and cause serious injuries. Any bone can break teeth, get stuck in the mouth or throat, or cause blockages and constipation. Ask us about safer chew options for your dog.
How did you do?
Believed a few of these? You’re in very good company. Share this with the friend who swears by the saucer of milk, and see how they score.
Heard a myth you’d like us to bust?
Ask any member of our team at your next visit. If you’ve heard it, chances are someone else has too, and we’re always happy to help separate fact from fur-ction.
Vet advice Every pet is different. If you’re ever unsure whether something you’ve heard is true for your pet, seek professional veterinary advice before acting on it.
General information only. This guide is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, examination, diagnosis or treatment, and every animal is different. If you think your pet needs urgent attention, call us immediately on 01843 808344. Services and techniques described are subject to your vet's clinical judgement. Information correct at the time of publication (October 2026).