National Cat Day is celebrated every year on October 29th, dedicated to celebrating cats of all kinds while raising awareness for the millions of cats still waiting to be adopted from shelters and rescues.
History of National Cat Day
National Cat Day was founded in 2005 by pet lifestyle expert Colleen Paige, the same animal advocate who founded National Dog Day. Paige created the holiday with a dual purpose: to celebrate the unique companionship cats provide, and to bring attention to the number of cats in shelters and rescues who need loving homes. Cats are often overlooked in adoption efforts compared to dogs, and Paige hoped the day would help shift that balance.
Cats themselves have a long history with humans, with evidence of domestication dating back roughly 10,000 years, likely beginning in the Near East as wild cats began living near early agricultural settlements to hunt rodents drawn to stored grain. Ancient Egyptians famously revered cats, associating them with the goddess Bastet and even mummifying beloved pets. That deep, complicated relationship between humans and cats continues today, with cats remaining one of the most popular pets in the world.
How to Celebrate National Cat Day
- Spend extra quality time with your cat, whether that’s playtime, treats, or simply cuddling
- Consider adopting a cat in need from a local shelter or rescue
- Donate supplies like food, litter, or toys to a local animal shelter
- Share photos of your cat on social media using hashtags like #NationalCatDay
- Schedule a wellness checkup at the vet if your cat is due
- Support a reputable animal welfare organization like the ASPCA, which works to protect and support cats in need nationwide
Fun Facts About Cats
- Cats have been domesticated for an estimated 10,000 years, with early domestication likely beginning in the Near East.
- Ancient Egyptians revered cats so highly that harming one, even accidentally, could be punishable by death.
- A group of cats is called a “clowder,” while a group of kittens is called a “kindle.”
- Cats spend an estimated 50-70% of their lives sleeping, totaling 12-16 hours a day on average.
- A cat’s purr occurs at a frequency that some research suggests may promote healing in bones and tissue.
- Millions of cats enter animal shelters in the United States every year, and cats are statistically adopted at lower rates than dogs, making awareness days like this especially important.
- Cats have a third eyelid, called a nictitating membrane, that helps protect and moisten the eye.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is National Cat Day?
National Cat Day is celebrated annually on October 29th.
Who founded National Cat Day?
National Cat Day was founded in 2005 by pet lifestyle expert Colleen Paige, who also founded National Dog Day.
Why was National Cat Day created?
The day was created to celebrate cats while raising awareness that cats are often adopted at lower rates than dogs, encouraging more people to consider adopting from shelters and rescues.
How can I get involved with National Cat Day?
You can celebrate by spending time with your own cat, adopting or fostering a shelter cat, donating supplies to a local shelter, or supporting an organization like the ASPCA.
Why do cats purr?
Cats purr for many reasons, including contentment, self-soothing during stress, and possibly even to promote healing, as some research suggests the frequency of a cat’s purr may aid tissue and bone repair.