A new survey by Petplan has uncovered some interesting truths about pet ownership in Cardiff. Whilst many pet owners feel confident in their pet knowledge, some are still misled by long-standing myths.
The study, which surveyed over 2,000 UK adults, including Cardiff residents, highlights the top misconceptions and the impact they have on pet care.
Among the most common pet myths, nearly half (48%) of Cardiff respondents believe that a wagging tail always signifies a happy dog.
“Dogs use their tails, alongside other body language cues, to convey a range of emotions—from excitement and happiness to nervousness or anxiety. The speed, position, and accompanying signals like posture or ear position are key to understanding how a dog truly feels. Rather than viewing a wag as a simple sign of friendliness, it’s better seen as an indication that the dog is open to interaction,” says Nick Jones, Dog Expert Witness and Behaviourist.
Another widely held belief, shared by 38% of respondents, is that pets lick their wounds to help keep them clean. In reality, excessive licking can actually slow healing and cause infections.
“Bacteria thrive in dog and cats’ mouths. These bacteria may originate from leftover food particles, dental plaque, and less hygienic habits, such as drinking from dirty puddles and licking their own bottoms,” says Petplan vet expert, Dr Brian Faulkner.
“Cats’ tongues are particularly rough which can cause significant damage and trigger a skin infection, abscess or generalised sepsis. That’s why vets advise pet owners to prevent their cats from licking their wounds. Similarly, dogs will lick themselves to clean their coats, ease itchy skin or relieve pain, which unfortunately in some cases can lead to infection.”
Meanwhile, 32% of pet owners in Cardiff mistakenly think their pet looks ‘guilty’ when they have done something wrong. Petplan suggests that this apparent ‘guilt’ is more likely a reaction to an owner’s tone or body language rather than an actual understanding of wrongdoing.
The survey also sheds light on the common misconcepti0n that cats and dogs are natural enemies. With 25% of Cardiff residents still believing this to be true.
However these myths can influence how people care for their pets. As the survey found 17% of Cardiff pet owners have changed their pet care routines based on misinformation, only to later realise they were misled. Additionally, 21% have avoided feeding their pets certain foods due to incorrect beliefs.
Despite these findings, pet owners are open to change. While 51% of Cardiff pet owners feel confident in identifying pet myths, 63% say they would willingly adjust their pet care practices if they discovered their actions were based on false information.
This openness suggests that greater education and awareness could help ensure pets receive the best possible care.
