After years of experience as a veterinarian, I’ve noticed that the most loving pet-parents are often the ones unintentionally harming their pets through well-intentioned, but misguided advice. In India, pet care myths have been passed down through generations, shared freely on social media, and reinforced by outdated beliefs. There’s also the whole belief that our ancestors’ wisdom should not be questioned. Today, I want to share what I’ve learned from my experience – and what science actually tells us – about keeping our dogs, cats, and other pets truly healthy and happy.

Pet ownership in India has transformed dramatically in the last few years. With the pet population growing from 26 million in 2019 to over 42 million in 2024 (and projections reaching 51 million dogs alone by 2028) more families than ever are welcoming pets into their homes. Yet this growth hasn’t been matched by growth in awareness of what’s actually good and bad for our pets. The myths I encounter daily are costing pets their health and their lives.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes. Always consult a vet before starting any medical treatment.

Myth: “Home Food is Always Better Than Commercial Pet Food”

Reality: This is perhaps the most common myth I hear, and it breaks my heart because it comes from a place of genuine love. Parents want to feed their pets the way they feed their children—with fresh, home-cooked meals. But here’s what the research shows: 88% of vets report that home-cooked food does not meet a cat’s nutritional needs, and the same applies to dogs.

Dogs and cats require specific amino acids, minerals, and vitamins in the right proportions. When you feed your dog roti, rice, milk, or curries, you’re giving them carbohydrates and calories, but you’re missing important nutrients like taurine (critical for cats), L-carnitine, zinc, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids. Over time, this causes obesity, digestive issues, allergies, and even organ damage.

But there is good news, India’s pet food market is evolving rapidly. The market is expected to reach Rs. 10,000 crore by 2028, with growing availability of breed-specific, age-appropriate, and therapeutic diets. Quality pet foods are now available that cater to Indian climates and dietary needs.

Better Approach: If you prefer home-cooked meals, then work with your vet to create a balanced diet that includes the right supplements. Otherwise, purchase good quality commercial pet foods that mention meat as the first ingredient, and meet nutritional requirements. Your pet’s health depends on it. Check out some of the best-quality cat foods here, and some of the best-quality dogs foods here.

Supertails Recommendations:

Myth: “Cats Can Drink Milk”

Reality: This one surprises many Indian pet parents. Most adult cats are lactose intolerant—they lack the enzymes needed to digest milk properly. Feeding milk to your cat upsets their digestive system, diarrhoea, and stomach problems. This still remains one of the most common practices in Indian households.

I’ve treated a lot of cats with chronic digestive issues that resolved immediately once their owners stopped giving them milk. The connection is obvious, but the myth still persists. Kittens can tolerate small amounts of milk, but adult cats should never have it regularly.

Better Approach: Stick to fresh, clean water. If you want to give your cat something special, offer cat-safe treats or consult your vet about appropriate options.

Don’t miss out on reading: Can Cats Drink Milk? The Truth Your Vet Wants You to Know

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Myth: “Dogs Must Breed at Least Once for Health”

Reality: There is absolutely no scientific evidence supporting this. In fact, the opposite is true. Breeding increases the risk of infections, complications, and even reproductive cancers – especially when done irresponsibly without proper health screening.

Spaying and neutering are among the most important health decisions you can make for your pet. These procedures reduce the chances of reproductive diseases, prevent unwanted litters, decrease aggressive behaviors, and contribute to a longer, and healthier life. I’ve seen so many dogs live into their later years after spaying or neutering, living without any negative effects on their personality or health.

The data is very clear: spayed and neutered pets have significantly lower rates of mammary cancer, ovarian cancer, testicular cancer, and prostate disease. They also show fewer behavioral problems and reduced roaming tendencies. But I still see resistance to this procedure based on outdated beliefs about femininity, masculinity, or natural instincts.

Better Approach: Consult a vet about the best time to spay or neuter your pet. For most dogs and cats, this is typically between 6-12 months of age. This single decision can add years to your pet’s life.

To learn more about this topic read: Dog Breeding Season: Your Essential Guide to Nurturing Your Furry Family Member

Myth: “A Dog’s Nose Must Always Be Wet or They’re Sick”

Reality: Many pet parents panic when their dog’s nose feels dry. While hydration and illness can affect the nose, dryness alone is not a reliable indicator of health. Weather, sleep, and environmental factors also temporarily dry a dog’s nose. Relying on this myth causes owners to ignore real warning signs like lethargy, appetite loss, vomiting, or behavioral changes.

I’ve had worried pet-parents rush in with perfectly healthy dogs simply because their noses were dry. Meanwhile, they miss actual symptoms that need immediate attention. This myth distracts from genuine health concerns.

Better Approach: Focus on overall behavior and appetite. If your dog is eating well, playing normally, and showing no other symptoms, a dry nose is nothing to worry about. Watch for actual warning signs, like changes in eating habits, excessive thirst, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual behavior.

For more information, check out: Dry Nose in Dogs: Sign of Sickness or Health?

Myth: “Dogs Shouldn’t Be Bathed Frequently”

Reality: I hear this constantly, and it’s especially problematic in India’s humid climate. The belief that bathing causes illness is outdated. In reality, hygiene is essential. Especially in our tropical environment where dust, parasites, and humidity are constant concerns.

Over-bathing with harsh products is indeed harmful, but proper bathing with dog-safe shampoos at appropriate periods keeps their skin healthy, prevents infections, and controls parasites. For most dogs in India, bathing every 2-4 weeks is enough, depending on their lifestyle and fur type. Dogs that spend time outdoors or have skin conditions may need more frequent bathing.

Regular bathing also allows you to check for skin issues, parasites, lumps, or abnormalities early. It’s preventive care, not something to avoid.

Better Approach: Use a gentle, medicated shampoo and bathe your dog regularly. This is part of responsible pet care, not something to avoid. Your dog’s skin and fur will thank you.

To learn more about how to properly bathe your dog, read: How to Bathe a Dog at Home: An Easy Step By Step Guide

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Myth: “Street Dogs Don’t Need Veterinary Care”

The Reality: Community dogs appear resilient, so some assume they don’t need vaccinations, deworming, or treatment. This myth is dangerous for both animals and humans. Unvaccinated dogs are prone to deadly diseases like rabies, parvo, and distemper, which pose serious public health risks.

Here’s the truth: India accounts for 36% of the world’s rabies deaths, with approximately 18,000-20,000 deaths annually. Most of these are preventable through vaccination. With an estimated 62 million stray dogs in India, the risk is enormous. Every unvaccinated dog is a potential vector for this deadly disease.

The Government of India has launched the “National Action Plan for Dog-Mediated Rabies Elimination by 2030,” recognizing that this is a public health emergency. Vaccinating community dogs isn’t just about animal welfare — it’s about protecting human lives, especially children.

Better Approach: Every dog, whether a beloved pet or a community animal, deserves basic medical care including vaccinations and deworming. Support local animal welfare organizations that provide these services to street dogs. This is an investment in public health.

Myth: “Desi Dogs Don’t Need Special Care”

Reality: Indian dog breeds like the Pariah, Rajapalayam, and Mudhol Hound are incredibly resilient and have adapted to our climate. However, “low-maintenance” doesn’t mean “no maintenance.” These dogs still need regular exercise, balanced nutrition, vaccinations, and veterinary checkups.

Desi dogs are naturally immune to many diseases and thrive on simple, balanced food — but their food still needs to be nutritionally complete. They benefit from regular deworming and vaccinations just like any other dog. In fact, their resilience sometimes masks underlying health issues, making regular checkups even more important.

Better Approach: Adopt a desi dog if you can. They’re wonderful companions and are perfectly suited to Indian climates. But provide them with proper care, including regular veterinary visits, appropriate nutrition, and preventive treatments.

Myth: “Exercise Isn’t Important if My Pet Has Space”

Reality: A backyard is not enough for exercise. Physical and mental stimulation come from interaction, training, and play. Without regular engagement, pets develop obesity, anxiety, destructive behavior, and depression.

Dogs require daily walks, games, and mental challenges. Cats need climbing spaces, hunting simulations, and interactive play. Exercise strengthens joints, supports heart health, and builds emotional stability. At least 30-60 minutes of structured activity daily can drastically improve your pet’s lifespan and quality of life.

I’ve seen dramatic transformations in anxious, destructive dogs once their owners committed to daily exercise routines. The behavioral issues weren’t behavioral problems — it was just boredom and pent-up energy.

Better Approach: Do daily walks with your dog, interactive play sessions, and mental enrichment activities. Your pet’s physical and mental health depend on it. This leads to a happier, and healthier companion.

If you want to know how to provide your dog ample exercise indoors, then check out: Innovative Indoor Alternatives for Regular Dog Training

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Myth: “Bad Breath is Normal in Dogs and Cats”

Reality: Persistent bad breath is not normal — it indicates bacterial overgrowth and potential health issues. In fact, over 80% of dogs aged three and older suffer from active dental disease, but most pet parents remain unaware until serious complications arise.

Chronic bad breath can signal gum infections, rotting teeth, or serious health problems like kidney disease or diabetes. Dental disease affects not just the mouth but the entire body, potentially damaging organs over time. Bacteria from infected teeth can enter the bloodstream and affect the heart, kidneys, and liver.

The statistics are scary: approximately 80% of dogs and 70% of cats over three years old have gum disease, including periodontitis and gingivitis. Yet dental care remains one of the most neglected aspects of pet health in India.

Better Approach: Brush your pet’s teeth daily with toothpaste, provide dental chews, and schedule professional cleanings with your veterinarian. Regular dental care is as important as any other aspect of pet health. Early intervention prevents costly and painful procedures later.

Also Read: Benefits of Dental Treats for Canine Teeth

Myth: “My Pet Only Needs a Vet Visit When They’re Sick”

Reality: This approach overlooks the fact that many conditions — like kidney disease, heart disease, early-stage cancers, and parasites — can show no symptoms in their initial phases. Pets instinctively hide pain, so diseases can progress silently for months.

Routine checkups allow veterinarians to monitor weight, teeth, heart function, skin conditions, and internal health before problems become life-threatening. Research shows that including diagnostic testing in wellness visits can uncover issues in up to 40% of dogs and 60% of cats. Early detection can mean the difference between a simple treatment and a complex, expensive one — or between life and death.

India’s veterinary healthcare market is growing at 8.73% annually, with increasing emphasis on preventive care and diagnostic services. This shift reflects a global recognition that prevention is far more effective than treatment.

Better Approach: Schedule wellness visits at least annually, more frequently for senior pets. Include routine blood work and diagnostic testing as part of preventive care. This is not an expense — it’s an investment in your pet’s health.

Myth: “Vaccination Myths and Concerns”

Reality: I understand the hesitation some pet parents have about vaccinations, but the science is clear: vaccination myths have led to preventable deaths. Vaccines protect against deadly diseases and are essential for both your pet’s health and public health.

Vaccines have saved millions of animal lives. Diseases like parvovirus, distemper, and rabies were once death sentences. Now, with proper vaccination, they’re largely preventable. The risks of vaccination are minimal compared to the risks of these diseases.

Better Approach: Follow your veterinarian’s vaccination schedule. Discuss any concerns openly, but trust the science and knowledge behind these recommendations. Your veterinarian can address specific concerns based on your pet’s health status and lifestyle.

Tip: For pet parents in Bengaluru, you can also visit Supertails Clinics or book at-home services for vaccinations and check-ups, making it easier to follow the recommended schedule without stressing your pet. These services bring expert veterinary care closer to you, so staying consistent with timely, science-backed vaccinations becomes truly seamless.

If you wish to learn more about Vaccinating your Cats, then check out: The Purr-fect Guide to Cat Vaccinations: Safeguarding Cat Health. If you’re looking to learn about proper vaccinations for your Dogs, then read: A Complete Dog Vaccination Guide: Keeping Your Pet Healthy

Myth: “Pet Diet Myths Don’t Matter Much”

Reality: What you feed your pet is important to their health. Pet diet myths — like “grains are always bad,” “more protein is always better,” or “raw food is always natural” — can lead to serious nutritional imbalances.

Each pet has unique metabolic needs based on age, activity level, health status, and even climate. What works for one dog might cause problems in another. The growing availability of specialized diets — breed-specific, age-specific, hypoallergenic, and therapeutic — reflects the complexity of pet nutrition.

Better Approach: Work with your veterinarian to develop a nutrition plan suited to your specific pet’s needs. Avoid following trends or online advice without professional guidance. Your vet can recommend appropriate foods and supplements based on your pet’s individual requirements. Check out Supertails’ collection of dog foods, dog treats, cat foods, and cat treats.

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Final Thoughts

As a veterinarian, my goal isn’t to judge pet parents but to help you make informed decisions. The myths and misconceptions I’ve discussed come from love and tradition, not neglect. But continuing to follow these beliefs damages your pet’s health and shortens their lifespan.

India’s pet industry is evolving rapidly, with growing awareness of pet humanization and the importance of quality care. Urban pet parents are increasingly willing to invest in their pets’ health and wellness. But these myths still persist, especially in communities with limited access to veterinary education.

Responsible pet parenting means choosing evidence-based care over outdated advice. By replacing myths with veterinary guidance, proper nutrition, preventive healthcare, and compassionate understanding, you give your dogs, cats, and other pets what they truly deserve: a safe, healthy, and happy life.

Your pets depend on you to be their advocate. Let’s make sure we’re giving them the best care possible — not just the care we think is best. The bond you share with your pet is precious. Honour it by making informed, science-based decisions about their health.

And if you need some special veterinary care for your furry companion, then Supertails is right here for you – with Verified Doctors providing veterinary services and advice for any issue your pet might be facing. Book an appointment with your nearest Supertails Clinic now!

FAQs

Is homemade food better for dogs than kibble? 

No. Research shows 88% of vets find home-cooked meals lack essential nutrients like taurine, zinc, and omega-3s. This can lead to obesity or even organ damage. Unless you work with a vet to create a balanced, supplemented plan, quality commercial food is often a safer nutritional choice.

Do indoor cats need vaccinations in India? 

Yes, vaccinations are essential for all pets, regardless of their indoor status. Vaccines protect against deadly, preventable diseases like rabies and distemper. Skipping them based on myths can lead to preventable deaths. Always follow your vet's schedule to ensure both your pet’s safety and public health.

Can Indian dogs eat chapati and milk? 

This is a common but harmful myth. Feeding dogs roti and milk provides calories but lacks critical nutrients like L-carnitine and selenium. Furthermore, many adult pets are lactose intolerant, and milk can cause chronic digestive issues and diarrhea. Stick to nutritionally complete pet food instead.

Is a wet nose the only sign of a healthy pet? 

No, a dry nose isn't a reliable indicator of illness; it can be caused by weather or sleep. Obsessing over this myth often leads owners to ignore real warning signs like lethargy, appetite loss, or vomiting. Always monitor your pet’s overall behavior and energy levels rather than just their nose.