What is National Kitten Day?

National Kitten Day is celebrated every year on July 10 in the United States. It is a day to raise awareness about kitten adoption, support animal shelters and celebrate the joy that kittens bring. People are encouraged to give extra love to their feline companions and to consider adopting a kitten from a shelter. Many organizations take the opportunity to run adoption events and educational campaigns.

The day also highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership. Kittens need proper care, socialization and medical attention to thrive. National Kitten Day reminds the public that there are thousands of kittens waiting for homes. Through photos, stories and events, the day brings attention to both the cuteness of kittens and the responsibilities that come with caring for them.

History and Origin

National Kitten Day was founded in 2012 by Colleen Paige, an animal advocate and pet lifestyle expert. She created the day to help reduce the number of kittens in shelters by encouraging adoption and better care. The goal was simple: to give homeless kittens a better chance at life. Her idea quickly gained support from animal welfare organizations and the public.

Since then, the day has grown into a widely observed occasion with national reach. Shelters use it to run special events and offer discounts on adoptions. Pet stores, brands and influencers also join the effort by sharing kitten content and promoting awareness. It is now a key date on the animal welfare calendar, and each year more kittens find homes because of it.

Who participates in National Kitten Day?

• Animal shelters and rescues: host adoption drives and promote available kittens
• Pet owners: share stories and photos of their kittens online
• Veterinarians: offer checkups, tips and resources for kitten care
• Animal welfare groups: raise funds and educate the public
• Community members: take part in events and support local shelters

Slogans and Themes

Common slogans include “Adopt, don’t shop,” “Purrfect companions,” and “Feline fine.” Themes for the day often center on adoption, care and awareness. The tone is joyful but purposeful. National Kitten Day combines cuteness with action. It uses charm to shine a light on the serious issue of overpopulation in shelters.

Colors, Symbols and Patterns

Colors

• Pastel pink and blue: reflect softness and the playful nature of kittens
• Bright orange and yellow: express energy and fun
• White: symbolizes innocence and new beginnings

Symbols

• Paw prints: represent the presence of pets in our lives
• Cat faces: show the uniqueness of every kitten
• Hearts: symbolize the bond between humans and animals

Patterns

• Whisker lines: evoke the distinctive look of kittens
• Footprints: suggest movement and curiosity
• Fur textures: used in illustrations to create warmth and realism

Most used hashtags

• #nationalkittenday
• #adoptdontshop
• #kittenlove
• #felinefriends
• #purrfectcompanion

How do you celebrate National Kitten Day?

• Adopt a kitten: visit your local shelter and give a kitten a forever home
• Volunteer your time: help care for kittens awaiting adoption
• Share online: post photos and facts to raise awareness
• Donate supplies: bring food, toys or blankets to a local rescue
• Host a fundraiser: support the medical care and sheltering of young cats

Why is National Kitten Day important?

National Kitten Day is important because it brings attention to the thousands of kittens that enter shelters each year. Many are too young to survive without help. This day encourages adoption and promotes the value of responsible care. By adopting or supporting shelters, people give kittens a chance at a full and healthy life.

It is also a time to celebrate the happiness kittens bring to homes. They offer companionship, playfulness and comfort. Through this day, more people learn what it means to care for a pet from the start. The result is fewer animals in need, and more loving homes built on compassion and joy.