Global Cat Day is observed annually on October 16. It’s a day dedicated to recognizing that cats—both companion and community (outdoor) cats—are part of our shared environments and to advocating for humane policies, care, and coexistence. 1

History of Global Cat Day

Global Cat Day evolved from an earlier observance called National Feral Cat Day, which was founded in 2001 by Alley Cat Allies, a nonprofit advocacy organization focused on cat welfare. In 2017, the organization rebranded the observance under the broader name Global Cat Day to reflect its expanding international focus.

The shift from a “feral cat–centric” framing to a “global cat and community cat” approach signals a broader ethos: cats are community members who deserve protection, care, and thoughtful coexistence. Today, the day is observed by cat advocates and groups worldwide, promoting awareness, advocacy, and action for the welfare of all cats.

Why is Global Cat Day important?

Cats are among the most numerous domesticated animals globally, but their lives—especially those living outdoors or in less‑resourced environments—often confront risks: overpopulation, disease, habitat conflicts, culling, and neglect. Global Cat Day draws attention not just to individual cats, but to systemic issues: how we as communities treat cats, what policies we endorse, and how we can shift from lethal or neglectful responses toward compassionate, science‑based solutions.

Furthermore, showing care for cats often mirrors how we treat the broader living environment: how we integrate animals into urban planning, how we manage population and biodiversity, how we respond to conflicts or illness, and how we invoke ethical values toward nonhuman life. Global Cat Day challenges us to see cats not as pests or disposable, but as neighbors whose well-being reflects that of the community as a whole.

  • It affirms cats’ status as community members, not just pets
  • It promotes humane, evidence‑based policies (e.g. TNR)
  • It asserts that cat welfare is part of ethical public policy
  • It connects individual care with systemic change
  • It encourages education, advocacy, and local action

How to Celebrate Global Cat Day

One meaningful way is to take a National Feral Cat Day action, which is the “action arm” of Global Cat Day. That might include organizing or joining Trap‑Neuter‑Return (TNR) operations, volunteering at or donating to local cat sanctuaries or advocacy groups, building or providing weatherproof shelters for community cats, or coordinating vaccination/health check clinics.

You can also use your voice: share information, videos, facts, and pledges. Alley Cat Allies provides resources for educating your community, debunking harmful policies or misinformation, and spreading the “Cats Are Community™” message. Smaller but meaningful acts also count: sign a pledge, foster or adopt a cat if possible, advocate locally for humane, cat‑friendly policies, or simply ensure your own feline (if you have one) has safe, healthy care.

  • Volunteer, donate, or participate in TNR or cat health events
  • Build or provide safe shelters for community cats
  • Share cat welfare info, pledges or videos
  • Foster or adopt cats where feasible
  • Advocate for humane local cat policies

Global Cat Day Dates Table

YearDateDay
2025October 16Thursday
2026October 16Friday
2027October 16Saturday
2028October 16Monday
2029October 16Tuesday
  1. https://globalcatday.org/[]

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