Happy International Cat Day 2024 - When It Is And How To Celebrate?

Did you know that more than 25% of households have a pet cat? While some cats might seem aloof, these furry felines are often loving and affectionate companions. Cats are low-maintenance pets that can provide their owners with years of warmth and comfort.

What better way to honor these beloved pets than with International Cat Day? Although many cats might think every day should be about them, there’s one special day each year dedicated entirely to celebrating our whiskered friends.

Whether you're a devoted cat owner or simply a cat enthusiast, there are plenty of ways to join in the celebration. This guide will cover everything you need to know about International Cat Day and offer tips on how your company can promote it.

When is International Cat Day 2024?

Our enigmatic furry felines will be celebrated on International Cat Day, August 8, 2024.

History of International Cat Day

International Cat Day, first established in 2002 by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), is a celebration dedicated to honoring one of the world's most beloved pets. Alongside other animal rights organizations, IFAW declared August 8 as the day to appreciate and celebrate our feline friends.

With an estimated 500 million cats roaming around the globe, it's likely that every extended family has at least one relative with more kittens than past marriages, regardless of country or climate.

And that’s fantastic because owning a cat has been shown to enhance mental well-being and alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression. So, whether it’s raining cats and dogs outside or you're simply in need of a cuddle, any cat—be it a black, ginger, Persian, Siamese, Burmese, Bengal, Shorthair, Munchkin, Balinese, RagaMuffin, or even a stray—can brighten your International Cat Day.

So, roll out the red carpet and sprinkle some catnip, because International Cat Day is the perfect occasion to indulge your feline friend. It's the one day of the year when black cats are considered lucky, and spoiling your kitty is encouraged without a hint of judgment.

How to Celebrate International Cat Day 2024

Since cats have a wide range of personalities, observing International Cat Day can involve as much or as little activity as would be enjoyable for each feline in the household. A great way to start the celebration could be for everyone to join their cats for a soothing cat nap!

More easygoing cats may relish the chance to make a big deal out of the occasion, while shyer kitties might prefer to simply observe from their hiding spots under the bed. Regardless of their individual preferences, here are some ideas that humans can use to make International Cat Day a delight for all involved:

Dress Your Cat in a Cute Costume

Take International Cat Day to the next level by dressing up your feline friend in a costume that would make any cat lover proud. From cowboy hats to Hogwarts-inspired getups, there are endless options to transform your pet into an adorable celebration of all things cat.

For a glamorous look, drape your cat in a feathery boa. Or get really creative with a pirate costume or even a bunny suit. No matter the costume, dressing up your cat is a surefire way to make them the star of any International Cat Day festivities.

So embrace your cat's playful side and outfit them in the perfect costume. It's a fun, creative way to shower your feline with extra love on this special holiday.

Adopt a Cat for International Cat Day

This International Cat Day, consider opening your home to a feline friend by adopting a cat. Cats make wonderful, low-maintenance pets - they are independent, often good with children, and content to lounge around the house.

With so many wonderful cats waiting in shelters and rescues, you're sure to find the perfect furry companion to add to your family. Adopting a rescue cat not only provides a loving home, but can be incredibly rewarding for you as well.

So why not bring some extra love into your living room this year? Adopt a cat and give a deserving feline a second chance.

Visit a Local Cat Coffee

Don't have a cat? Visit a cat coffee on International Cat Day! These unique spots let you enjoy a beverage while surrounded by friendly, adoptable cats. The cats love to interact with human visitors through playtime, napping, and more.

For those considering adoption, a cat coffee visit provides valuable "trial time" to see if a particular kitty is a good fit. Even if you're not adopting, watching the cats is a delightful way to celebrate the day, especially for those without a feline friend.

So if you lack a furry companion, head to your local cat coffee on International Cat Day. Spending time with these adorable cats is sure to be a perfectly delightful experience.

Dress with a Nod to International Cat Day

Embrace your feline fashion sense this International Cat Day! Cat-themed accessories are the purrfect way to show your love for our furry friends.

Start with a classic pair of cat-eye sunglasses - they instantly add a touch of playful style to any outfit. Or channel your inner cat lady with a whimsical headband featuring adorable cat ears.

For a more subtle nod to our feline friends, opt for a striped hat reminiscent of Dr. Seuss's The Cat in the Hat. And don't forget to slip into those cozy slippers adorned with cute cat prints.

If you really want to go all out, why not try on a full Catwoman-inspired ensemble? Embrace your inner superhero and celebrate International Cat Day in head-to-toe cat-themed attire.

No matter how you choose to accessorize, the key is to have fun and let your love for cats shine through your fashion choices. After all, any task can be accomplished with a little touch of cat-inspired style on this special day.

Make a Donation to a Cat Charity

No time to volunteer? No worries! International Cat Day is a perfect opportunity to make a monetary donation to support local cat shelters or animal welfare organizations that may need extra help caring for cats in need. You can also contribute to larger cat charities dedicated to improving feline lives. Here are some great options to consider:

• Petco Love: Operated by Petco, this charity works to empower animal lovers and save the lives of pets in need.
• Winn Feline Foundation: A global non-profit, Winn Feline Foundation funds health research to help cats live longer, healthier lives.
• Alley Cat Allies: This international organization advocates for the humane treatment of cats and is committed to protecting their well-being.
• Best Friends Animal Society: Known for its no-kill policy, Best Friends provides shelter for abused and homeless animals and runs programs to trap, neuter, and release feral cats.
• International Cat Care: With over 60 years of experience, this charity offers support and resources to cat owners and caregivers around the world.

Your donation can make a meaningful difference in the lives of cats everywhere!

5 FUN FACTS ABOUT CATS

The loudest Purr!

Merlin, a Black and White Cat from the U.K., has the record for the loudest purr and his purr is 67.8db.

Faster than you think

Your little kitty can hit the speeds of around 30mph!

The richest kitty in town!

According to "Guinness World Records", when Blackie's millionaire owner passed away, he got a 7-million-pound fortune.

Not so sweet

Cats can not detect sweetness, which explains why they are not drawn to it at all.

Meow to you!

According to science, cats only use their meows to talk to humans and not to each other - except to their mothers when they are kittens.

International Cat Day By The Numbers

• 18% – the percentage of households in the U.K. ruled by a cat.
• 9,500 – the number of years ago when the oldest-known pet cat existed.
• 70% – the percentage of their lives cats spend sleeping.
• 20 – the number of years an orange cat named ‘Stubbs’ served as the mayor of a small town in Alaska.
• 48.5 – the record number of inches for the longest cat ever.
• 19.05 – the record number of inches of the tallest cat ever.
• £7 million – the net worth of the richest cat in the world.
• 1963 – the year when a cat was successfully sent to space.
• 30 mph – the maximum speed of a house cat.

Gifts For Cat Lover On National Cat Day

Cat Mama - 16 Oz Coffee Glass

It’s not surprising to see cat moms collecting cat-themed items. Stickers, coasters, shirts–she has them all! So if you want to surprise a cat woman in your life, choose something that they can use often–like a drinking cup.

Measuring 3.6"Wx7.4"H, you or a loved one can use this 16oz glass for any beverage. It’s perfect for ice-cold juices, smoothies, water, or freshly brewed coffee and tea.