National Cat Day

October 29th is National Cat Day! This special day was founded by Colleen Paige to bring awareness to the number of cats that need to be rescued each year. It is a great day to celebrate all the love of cats. Not only are cats amazing creatures, they can also be quite adorable when they’re happy. Here’s how to celebrate this holiday the right way — and make sure your cat is pulled in on the fun!

History of National Cat Day

The holiday was founded in 2005 by pet and family lifestyle expert Colleen Paige with the aim of drawing attention to the many cats in shelters and encouraging more adoptions. Since its inception, the day has grown into a popular annual observance where cat lovers, shelters, and advocacy groups highlight feline companionship and the sometimes difficult path many cats face toward finding a home.

Why is National Cat Day important?

On this day I like to pause and think not only about the fun and warm moments we enjoy with cats—those purrs, lazy naps, playful antics—but also about the less visible side of feline life: the cats who are homeless, in shelters, or waiting for someone to offer them a home. Recognizing both sides helps us appreciate cats as more than just pets—they’re living beings with needs, quirks, personalities, and sometimes vulnerabilities.
Beyond that, the day reminds us of the broader idea of responsibility and care. Celebrating our cat is one thing; committing to their welfare, understanding their needs, and acknowledging shelter populations is another. National Cat Day blends celebration with social purpose: love your cat and think about the ones still waiting.

• It shines a light on cats who are waiting in shelters for homes
• It allows us to remember the joy and companionship cats bring to our lives
• It invites us to take responsibility for cat welfare and not just celebration
• It encourages adoption rather than purchasing from breeders when possible
• It offers a chance to deepen connection with a cat we already have

How to Celebrate National Cat Day

Celebrating this day can be simple, heartfelt, and meaningful. If you have a cat, give them a little extra attention: a grooming session, a new toy, a treat, or just extra lap time. Speak to them (yes, cats hear us) and notice the ways they show affection. These small moments help strengthen the bond.
If you don’t currently have a cat, or if you’d like to make a bigger impact, this day is a great opportunity to support a local animal shelter—either by adopting a cat, donating blankets/food/toys, or volunteering your time. Share a photo of your favorite feline moment or a shelter cat’s profile on social media to raise awareness. Every little action helps.

• Give your cat some extra attention, play, or a special treat today
• Visit a local shelter, meet some adoptable cats, and consider whether one could join your home
• Donate supplies (food, litter, toys) or time to a feline-focused animal welfare group
• Share photos or stories of your cat or a rescued cat with the hashtag #NationalCatDay
• Learn more about responsible cat ownership—spaying/neutering, vet visits, nutrition—and commit to one improvement

What are some fun facts about cats?

Another fun way to spend National Cat Day is to learn some fun facts about these amazing animals.

Did you know that cats have been domesticated for over 10,000 years? Or that there are over 500 million domestic cats in the world? Or that the average lifespan of a cat is about 15 years?

• Whisker Sensitivity: A cat’s whiskers are not just for measuring gaps or spaces. They are highly sensitive to changes in their environment and can detect nearby objects without the cat having to see them. This makes whiskers an essential tool for hunting and navigation.
• Sandpaper Tongues: Cats have tiny, hook-like structures on their tongues called papillae. These help them groom by catching loose fur and dirt. It’s also why their tongue feels like sandpaper when they lick you.
• Territorial Creatures: Cats are naturally territorial animals. They often rub their faces against furniture or people to mark their territory with the glands around their cheeks.
• Incredible Jumpers: Cats are powerful jumpers and can leap up to six times their body length in one jump. This ability is due to their strong and flexible backbones.
• Unique Nose Prints: Just as humans have unique fingerprints, each cat has a unique nose print. This means that no two cats have the exact same pattern of ridges and bumps on their noses.
• Cats “Knead” for Comfort: You might have noticed your cat kneading with its paws on soft surfaces. This behavior is a comforting action that originates from kittenhood when they kneaded their mother’s belly to stimulate milk flow.
• Ancient Cat Worship: In ancient Egypt, cats were revered and even worshipped. Killing a cat, even accidentally, was considered a grave offense.
• Cats Can “Chirp”: Apart from the usual meowing, purring, and hissing, cats can produce a sound called a “chirp” or “chatter.” This sound is often made when they are observing birds from a window, possibly expressing excitement or frustration.
• Third Eyelid: Cats have a third eyelid known as the haw or nictitating membrane. It’s a thin cover that closes from the side and provides extra protection and moisture for the eye.
• Cats Sweat Through Their Paws: While cats have sweat glands all over their bodies, they primarily sweat through their paws. This is why you might find wet paw prints on a hot day.
• Cats and Sleep: Cats spend approximately 70% of their day sleeping. This might seem like a lot, but for our feline friends, it’s completely normal. Their ancestors were predators that hunted primarily at dawn and dusk, requiring bursts of energy followed by long periods of rest. This behavior has carried over to our domesticated companions.
• What’s in a Name: A group of cats is called a clowder. The term originates from the word “clodder,” which means “to clot.” Other terms for a group of cats include a “glaring” or a “clutter.”
• Petting Preferences: Cats have individual preferences for how they like to be petted. Some might enjoy a chin scratch, while others prefer being stroked along their back. It’s essential to pay attention to a cat’s body language to understand their likes and dislikes.
• The Healing Purr: A cat’s purr is not just a sign of contentment. It’s therapeutic and can help decrease stress levels in humans. The vibrations from a cat’s purr can promote healing in bones, reduce pain and inflammation, and lower blood pressure in those who listen.
• Nighttime Hunters: Cats have excellent night vision and can see six times better than humans in low light conditions. This is because they have more rod cells in their retinas, which are responsible for detecting light and movement. This ability made them efficient hunters during dawn and dusk.
• Scent Memory: Cats have a powerful sense of smell, even stronger than dogs in some aspects. They can remember familiar smells for years. This olfactory ability helps them mark territory, recognize other animals, and even find their way home.
• Independent but Affectionate: While cats are often seen as aloof or independent, they actually form strong bonds with their humans. They can be very affectionate, showing their love through purring, kneading, and even bringing “gifts” to their owners.
• Cognitive Abilities: A cat’s brain structure, especially the region responsible for emotions, is remarkably similar to that of humans. They can learn to recognize up to 100 different words, understand basic commands, and even solve simple puzzles. This cognitive ability showcases their intelligence and adaptability.

What to Do If You Find a Cat

If you find a cat or kitten, you should:

1. Check for Identification: If you come across a stray cat, the first thing you should do is check for a collar and ID tags. These tags can provide crucial information about the cat’s owner, including their name, address, and contact number. If you find such details, reach out to the owner immediately to let them know you’ve found their pet.
2. Visit the Local Animal Shelter: If the cat doesn’t have any visible identification, consider taking it to your local animal shelter or rescue organization. These places have the resources to scan for microchips, which might provide information about the cat’s owner. Even if they can’t locate the owner, they can ensure the cat is cared for and potentially rehomed.
3. Find a New Home: If you’re inclined to help the cat find a permanent home, you can take the initiative to do so. Start by asking friends, family, and colleagues if they or someone they know is interested in adopting a cat. Utilize social media platforms to spread the word, and always ensure that potential adopters are responsible and capable of providing a loving home.
4. Adopt the Cat Yourself: If you’ve grown attached to the cat and believe you can provide a loving and caring environment, you might consider adopting it. However, before making this decision, ensure you understand the responsibilities that come with pet ownership. Cats require attention, medical care, and a stable environment. If you’re ready for the commitment, welcoming a new feline friend into your home can be a rewarding experience.

Remember, stray cats might be lost pets missing their families. Always prioritize reuniting them with their owners when possible. If that’s not an option, ensuring they find a safe and loving home is the next best thing.

How can we show our love for cats every day?

By taking care of them and providing them with a safe, loving home. Give them plenty of toys to play with, good quality food, and a litter box. Most importantly, spend time with them and show them how much you care.

We hope you have a wonderful National Cat Day! Show your love for cats today, and every day.

Official Websites

• https://www.nationalcatday.com/
• http://www.instagram.com/nationalcatday
• http://www.twitter.com/nationalcatday
• https://www.facebook.com/NationalCatDay

FAQ

National Cat Day Dates Table