The Science Behind Cats and Dogs

Last Updated on March 24, 2023

There are some myths about cats and dogs. Some myths about cats or dogs can be harmless but could also be harmful. Also, due to certain beliefs, people may treat cats and dogs differently. Accordingly, this article will provide you with the latest scientific information about cats and dogs to reveal those myths.

Cats and Dogs

Cats and dogs are popular pets in this world. Hence, there are lots of people interacting with them every day. There has been some research showing that interacting with an animal could have a positive impact on our health and happiness. However, other researchers have found the opposite, which has no effect. It could be worse in some cases than that of non-pet owners ​[1]​.

The Dogs

Myth #1: Dog saliva is an antiseptic

If you have a dog, it may lick you often when it shows fondness or looks at you with attention. At that time, you start being exposed to the dog’s saliva. A study has explained that dog saliva may help defend against infection in certain dog wounds ​[2]​. However, not all wounds can be healed if exposed to dog saliva. Because certain bacteria found in dog saliva, such as C. canimorsus, could be harmful if exposed to a wound ​[3], [4]​.

Therefore, if you are wounded, it is safer to keep it away from dog licks and get immediate medication instead. Meanwhile, it is essential to keep your dog’s mouth healthy through regular toothbrushing and annual dental care. You may need to visit your vet more frequently to monitor your dog’s health condition.

Myth #2: Canine excrement will fertilize the yard

Generally, female and male dogs instinctively investigate and mark “their ground” with their urine and/or feces (canine excreta) ​[5]​​. We may know that manure could be used as fertilizer. However, it is only from certain animals, including horses and cows. On the other hand, dog feces will contaminate the soil and pollute the environment, as explained by a study ​[6]​. There are some potential risks to public health from a large amount of canine excrement on city streets. It contains many pathogenic microorganisms that are dangerous to humans. Even more, these pathogenic microorganisms could be resistant to several classes of antibiotics.

This is why dog owners must clean up after their dogs by using dog poop scoopers and bags.

The Cats

Myth #1: Cats only purr when they are happy

Commonly, cats purr when you give attention to them or when they’re happy. However, they also purr when they’re frightened or feeling unwell. A recent study discovered the healing effect of the “cat’s purr,” which is the fundamental, dominant, or strong frequencies at exactly 25 Hz and 50 Hz. In fact, both frequencies are the best at promoting bone growth and fracture healing ​[7]​. Furthermore, cats have a strong harmonic in the range of 2–100 Hz. It is a frequency that is commonly used therapeutically for pain, edema, wounds, and dyspnea. That internal healing mechanism has many advantages, such as reducing recovery time and keeping the strength of muscles and bones while not moving ​[8]​.

Myth #2: Cats self-clean by licking themselves

The cats spend around 24% of their awake time licking themselves. It is to maintain their fur to avoid debris, fleas, and some excess heat, by using their tongue, which is covered in sharp, rear-facing spines called papillae ​[9]​.

However, it doesn’t prevent dandruff, matted fur, or odor. Therefore, if you have a cat as a pet, you may need to bathe your cat regularly. It is more comfortable to have a clean-smelling cat roaming around.

Cats and Dogs Allergies

Sometimes, some of us may get some pet allergy symptoms, such as:

• Sneezing;
• Runny or stuffy nose;
• Facial pain (from nasal congestion);
• Coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and wheezing;
• Watery, red, or itchy eyes; or,
• Skin rash or hives.

You might have a cat allergy if you feel any symptoms while the cat is nearby, even if the cat is not present. Cats could produce multiple “allergens,” or proteins, that could cause allergies in humans. It is often found on the cat’s fur, skin, and saliva.

Sometimes, we might have a dog allergy if we feel any symptoms while the dog is nearby. Just like cats, dogs also produce multiple allergens. These allergens are often found in the dog’s dander, hair, saliva, and even urine.

However, it is possible that it is not the dog or cat that causes the allergy. Dust and pollen that sticks to the cat’s or dog’s body can also cause allergy symptoms.

References

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