Worshipped since the ancient era like gods and regarded as intelligent animals, cats occupy a special place in our hearts and world for many reasons. To honor them, International Cat Day is celebrated every 8th of August and serves as a reminder to appreciate every second we are accompanied by our furry friends.
Some may find cats funny and entertaining with their antics and when the zoomies hit. Others are captivated by their intellect, agility, and reflexes.
What we can all agree on is that they are adorable. Did you know that there are about 600 million cats worldwide?
How International Cat Day Was Established
Established in 2002 by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), and backed by many other organizations that fight for animal rights.
It surged as a way to highlight the importance of cats in people’s lives as well as to promote cat welfare all over the world.
IFAW is a non-profit organization and one of the world’s largest animal welfare and conservation charities. They believe that every animal matters. Sticking to it, they have rescued over 200.000 animals, an amount they want to keep on increasing. They rescue, rehabilitate and release animals, and they also restore and protect their natural habitats.
This day’s significance is primarily to raise awareness about diverse cat-related issues such as the great number of stray cats (there are 60-100 million stray cats only in the US) as well as any illnesses they could carry.
However, there is more to it. Next, we will share 4 reasons for you to celebrate International Cat Day.
4 Reasons To Celebrate International Cat Day
1. Raise Awareness
As we were saying, there are many not-so-known issues regarding cats.
We can all agree that cat homelessness is not great, but apart from the fact that there are many cats without a roof, those same cats are often malnourished and carry illnesses that can be dangerous if not controlled or prevented.
This is why controlling the cat population is critical to improving their quality of life over time, as not every kitty ends up finding an appropriate home.
Many organizations fight for animals, and this day serves as a spotlight for those working on making kitties’ lives better.
2. Companionship
We cat people know that cats are the perfect companions and are nowhere near as distant or unsociable as some people think they are.
They’ve won our hearts with their purrs and playful pounces, and this day is a great opportunity to remind ourselves to value our feline friends and to show them some extra love. Maybe give them a treat as a mini celebration or as a way to say “thank you.”. (words don’t get through them, but food usually does :))
3. Cultural Impact
Cats are Icons, from ancient history to cartoons, they have coexisted with us for quite some time now and that has definitely left a positive mark without question.
Even taking the form of gods such as the goddess of protection, Bastet, Cats were so venerated in ancient Egypt that Egyptians would mummify them once they died.
In the present day, they make great characters. Take the Puss In Boots and Garfield, we all know them! that has to mean something. Also, big shoutout to my two orange cats Aurelio and Haru, they surely identify with these ginger characters.
How To Take Action
1. Adopt Or Foster
Refugees and cat sanctuaries are often at a full capacity, and always looking for responsible candidates to adopt cats, or maybe the next time you see a stray cat you could give them a roof. Either way, you have to be prepared and it is not something to take lightly.
Cats are a responsibility and should be considered family members. One less cat in the street would be an enormous contribution from you to support the cause.
If you adopt a kitty, make sure to give them a fitting name!
2. Volunteer
Your time is very valuable, and it is the engine that keeps many non-profit organizations functioning. Hands are always needed.
It could be a great way to help if you can’t take the responsibility of adopting a cat, and if that’s the case, you can always volunteer to a nearby shelter or organization.
If you don’t know where to start, here are some recommendations based on locations:
United States:
United Kingdom:
Canada:
International:
These organizations always welcome extra hands, we invite you to check their sites to learn how to become a volunteer and help kitties.
3. Donate
Even a small amount can be a cat’s food plate. In the right hands, any donation will be much appreciated and put to good use.
If your time is too tight to volunteer and having any more cats at home is not doable, consider helping cats this way.
Non-profits usually depend on donations, others may have a cat store that you could visit to get a few things, and at the same time, aiding kitties in need with your purchase.
The Animal Rescue Site Store is a fine option if you are looking to make an online purchase.
Fun Ways to Celebrate International Cat Day
You will have a hard time explaining your cat it is their day with words, but not so much with a few games, treats or special activities! here are some ideas:
- Give them that treat they love
- Prepare some special food for them, for example Bone Broth
- Get them a new, shiny toy. Did you know cats adore matatabi sticks?
- Engage on interactive play
- If you live in a quiet area with plenty of green space, you can take your cat for a walk!
- Give them catnip! The harmless herb that drives cats crazy
Natural Catnip By CatCrack
FAQ’s
Q: What happens on International Cat Day?
A: As a day to raise awareness about cat related issues, many organizations will probably upload to their social media or spread messages regarding this issues and letting anyone interested know how to take part on solving them.
Q: Who Created International Cat Day?
A: the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) in 2002, with the support of many other organizations fighting for animal welfare.
