What is National Cat Day?
National Cat Day is celebrated annually in the United States on October 29 to honor and appreciate cats, raise awareness about cat adoption, and encourage people to care for and rescue felines in need. Founded in 2005 by animal welfare advocate Colleen Paige, this holiday emphasizes the joy that cats bring to their owners and highlights the importance of finding forever homes for millions of shelter cats. The day serves as a reminder to consider adopting a cat from a shelter, supporting animal rescues, and promoting responsible pet care.
National Cat Day is celebrated by cat lovers across the country with activities such as adoption events, online sharing of cat photos and videos, and giving treats and gifts to their furry companions.
History and Origin
National Cat Day was created in 2005 by Colleen Paige, a pet lifestyle expert and animal welfare advocate, with the goal of increasing awareness about the number of cats that need rescuing and adoption each year. With an estimated 3.2 million cats entering shelters annually in the U.S., Paige wanted to create a day to spotlight the importance of adopting cats from shelters and animal rescues.
Since its inception, National Cat Day has grown in popularity, largely fueled by social media and support from cat owners, rescues, and animal welfare organizations. The holiday serves as a fun, heartwarming reminder to consider adopting, fostering, or supporting local shelters that work tirelessly to find homes for cats.
Who Celebrates National Cat Day?
- Cat Owners: Cat parents celebrate by pampering their cats, giving treats, and spending quality time with their feline friends.
- Animal Shelters and Rescue Organizations: Many shelters host adoption events or special promotions to encourage people to adopt cats.
- Cat Lovers and Supporters: Even those who don’t own cats participate in celebrations by sharing cute photos, donating to rescues, or spreading awareness about adoption.
- Pet Supply Stores and Brands: Companies often have special promotions, discounts on cat products, or partnerships with shelters to support adoption efforts.
- Veterinarians and Animal Welfare Advocates: Professionals in animal care promote National Cat Day by educating the public on responsible pet ownership and the benefits of adopting shelter cats.
Slogans and Themes
National Cat Day is centered on themes of adoption, love, and compassion for cats. Common slogans include “Adopt, Don’t Shop!”, “Purr-fect Companions Need Homes”, and “Give a Cat a Forever Home”. These themes highlight the importance of cat adoption and responsible care, encouraging people to open their homes and hearts to cats in need.
Colors, Symbols, and Patterns
- Colors:
- Orange: Represents warmth, friendliness, and is often associated with cats in need of homes.
- Black and White: Popular cat colors that symbolize the diversity of shelter cats.
- Green: Reflects hope and new beginnings for shelter cats finding loving homes.
- Symbols:
- Cat Paw Prints: Represent the presence of cats in people’s lives and symbolize adoption journeys.
- Heart Shape: Emphasizes love and compassion for felines and the need for adoption.
- Cat Silhouette: An iconic symbol of the day, representing cats of all shapes, sizes, and personalities.
- Patterns:
- Striped or Tabby Patterns: Celebrates the variety of cat breeds and coat patterns.
- Paw Print Patterns: Used on decorations, apparel, and promotional materials for National Cat Day.
- Cat Ears: Seen on accessories and decor as a fun, lighthearted nod to the day.
Most Used Hashtags
- #NationalCatDay
- #AdoptDontShop
- #CatLove
- #CatsOfInstagram
- #CatRescue
How to Celebrate National Cat Day
- Adopt a Cat: Consider adopting a cat from a shelter or rescue organization. Many places offer special adoption rates on National Cat Day.
- Volunteer at a Shelter: Spend the day helping at a local animal shelter, where you can assist with feeding, cleaning, or simply spending time with cats in need.
- Share on Social Media: Post photos and videos of your cat or your favorite shelter cats with the hashtag #NationalCatDay to help spread awareness.
- Donate to Animal Charities: Support shelters by donating food, toys, or funds to help care for cats waiting for their forever homes.
- Treat Your Cat: If you already have a cat, treat them to a new toy, cozy bed, or tasty snack to show appreciation for their companionship.
Why is National Cat Day Important?
National Cat Day serves as an important reminder of the countless cats in shelters awaiting homes. This day raises awareness about cat adoption and helps reduce the number of cats in shelters by encouraging people to adopt rather than buy from breeders. Cats bring joy, comfort, and companionship to millions, but many are abandoned or left in shelters each year.
The day also provides an opportunity to promote responsible pet ownership, from routine vet care to understanding a cat’s needs. Celebrating National Cat Day shows appreciation for the bond between humans and cats, while also highlighting the need for ongoing support for animal rescues and shelters.