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!

So why do we love National Cat Day? Well, cats are simply incredible creatures. They are independent, yet loving. They are playful, yet calm. They are mischievous, yet cute.

Cats can help reduce stress and anxiety, recover from work or school faster. Cats are known for their quick wit and easygoing nature, which can make them great companions. If you’re looking for a pet that can help with your stress levels, consider adding a cat to your household.

How to Celebrate National Cat Day

There are many ways to celebrate National Cat Day. One way is to simply spend some extra time with your cat. Give them some extra attention, some extra treats, or just let them sleep on your lap for a while. If you don’t have a cat of your own, today is a great day to visit your local shelter and give some love to the cats there.

  • Spend Quality Time with Your Cat: Cats are creatures of affection and thrive on human interaction. Dedicate some extra moments today to cuddle, play, or simply sit with your cat. Whether it’s a longer play session or just letting them purr on your lap, your cat will appreciate the added attention.
  • Visit a Local Shelter: Even if you don’t own a cat, you can still celebrate this day. Head to your local animal shelter and spend time with the cats there. Your visit can make a world of difference to a cat waiting for its forever home.
  • DIY Cat Toys and Accessories: Get crafty and make a homemade toy or scratching post for your cat. Using simple materials like cardboard, fabric, or string, you can create something unique that your cat will love.
  • Celebrate on Social Media: Share a favorite photo or video of your cat on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. Use the hashtag #NationalCatDay to join the global celebration and see other adorable feline posts.
  • Promote Responsible Cat Ownership: Cats are wonderful companions, but they also require care and understanding. Share tips and information about responsible cat ownership, such as the importance of spaying/neutering, litter box maintenance, and ensuring a balanced diet.
  • Pamper Your Cat: Every cat deserves a treat now and then. Whether it’s a new toy, a special snack, or a cozy bed, spoil your cat a little extra today.
  • Support Animal Shelters: Many shelters operate on tight budgets and rely on donations. Consider making a monetary contribution or donating supplies like food, toys, or bedding to support their efforts in rescuing and rehoming cats.
  • Host a Cat-Themed Party: Invite fellow cat lovers over for a feline-themed gathering. Serve cat-shaped cookies, play cat-related games, and perhaps even have a costume contest where guests come dressed as their favorite cat breeds or characters.
  • Adopt a Cat: If you’ve been considering adding a new feline member to your family, National Cat Day is the perfect occasion. Remember, adoption is a lifelong commitment, so ensure you’re ready for the responsibility.
  • Watch Cat Movies or Shows: Spend the day binge-watching movies or TV shows that feature cats. Classics like “The Aristocats” or “Garfield” are always a hit.
  • Read Cat Books: Delve into literature that celebrates cats. Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, or poetry, there’s a vast array of books dedicated to our feline friends.
  • Create Cat Art: If you’re artistically inclined, sketch, paint, or craft something inspired by cats. This could be a portrait of your own cat or any imaginative cat-themed creation.
  • Visit a Cat Café: If there’s a cat café near you, it’s a wonderful place to relax with a cup of coffee and enjoy the company of cats. These establishments often house rescue cats, giving patrons the opportunity to adopt.
  • Educate Others: Use this day to educate friends and family about the importance of cat rescue, the benefits of adopting older cats, or the special care required for certain breeds.
  • Make DIY Cat Treats: Whip up some homemade cat treats using cat-friendly ingredients. There are many simple recipes online that your cat will surely love.
  • Set Up a Cat Photo Booth: Create a fun backdrop, gather some props, and have a photo session with your cat. It’s a fun way to capture memories and share them with others.
  • Listen to Cat Music: Believe it or not, there’s music composed specifically for cats! Play some for your feline and observe their reaction.
International Hug Your Cat Day

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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.

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FAQ

What is National Cat Day?

It is a special day created to bring awareness to the number of cats that need to be rescued each year. It is also a great day to celebrate all the love of cats.

When is National Cat Day?

National Cat Day is celebrated every year on October 29.

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