I can only guess that people, like you, are also skeptical. If you have this attitude about those around you, those that share your concerns and love for cats will also act with suspect. If someone has them, they will feel about you the same way you feel about most others around you. I don't have an answer about how to resolve that. But, I do know that there may be some - like you - who are being protective of your cats, given what you say so many others think.