Cats and Nigerians: Why the Fear? Debunking Myths and My Journey to Finding Joy

In Nigeria, cats happen to be some of the most misunderstood and despised animals. Unlike dogs, they are rarely appreciated as pets. For some wild reason, many Nigerians believe cats are "demonic" or "satanic spies." It is almost funny—yet sad—to see how children flee, mothers break into immediate prayer sessions, and fathers reach for their cutlass the moment a cat wanders into the compound.

My Heartbreaking Backstory: From Puppies to Pella

I have always been a "dog person." Years ago, my brother’s dog had puppies, and I fell deeply in love with one. I had the resources to care for him, so I fed him, we slept together, and he was the happiest creature whenever he saw me.

Then, a tragedy happened that I still haven't fully healed from. One afternoon, I left the house to run an errand for my mom. I didn't shut the gate properly. Moments later, I heard a sound that haunts me to this day—a puppy in distress. My puppy had been hit by an Okada (motorbike) right in front of our house. Within 30 minutes, I lost him. That was the end of my journey with puppies; the pain was just too much.

Fast forward to marriage, and my husband had cats. Like a true Nigerian, I thought they were evil... until they weren't. I’ve owned three cats since then. My first two lived long, beautiful lives until the age of 13. Now, I have Pella (short for Pellapara). She is three years old and she is exactly what I need. She’s reserved, sassy, and independent. Our personalities match perfectly—she doesn’t like being clung to, and neither do I!

6 Nigerian Cat Myths Debunked

1. Cats have nine lives

Many Nigerians believe cats hardly die, or that they must be killed nine times before staying dead. This is just a hilarious joke! According to National Geographic, cats are fragile living beings just like us and only have one life to live.

2. Their back never touches the ground

Because cats almost always land on their feet, Nigerians have categorized this ability as evil. This inbred ability is actually called the Cat Righting Reflex. It’s a biological wonder made possible by an unusually flexible backbone, not witchcraft!

3. Cats are Demonic Spies

Why assume a cat is always a witch, wizard, or satanic spy? While the devil can use anything, singling out cats is unfair. Cats are widely known for their intelligence and sensitive nature, as noted by RSPCA experts.

4. Cat Saliva Causes Blindness

This is simply not true. Cats produce saliva with a protein called "Fel d 1," which can cause allergies in humans, but there is no medical evidence that it causes blindness. Medical research shows that while it can irritate eyes, it doesn't cause loss of sight.

5. Cat Hair Causes Asthma

Asthma is usually genetic or a byproduct of severe allergies. What people react to is often "Cat Dander" (dried saliva on the hair). According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, their hair itself isn't the danger—it's just a common allergy trigger for those already predisposed to it.

6. The "Crying Cat" Omen

Many believe a cat meowing at night is a sign of an impending death or bad luck in the family. In reality, cats are nocturnal and meow to communicate, hunt, or find mates. It's nature, not an omen!

I believe that if you can't love these creatures, simply overlook them. It is better than hurting them. Over the years, I have met amazing cats in different cities and they are truly adventurous companions.

Resources like Safer Family Pets have helped me build a stronger bond with my cats, especially with pet first aid and grooming. Check them out if you are looking to adopt or better your relationship with your pets!

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