August 8th, the International Cat Day

The day was first celebrated in 2002, and all praise to a Canadian-based organization, IFAW – the “International Fund for Animal Welfare.”

Origin and History of International Cat Day

Cats are carnivorous small fluffy mammals – for some good reasons – with a tail, claws, and four legs, and have been domesticated as pets centuries ago. The origin of cats being domesticated as pets is itself interesting and occurred in a pretty unique way.

As humans switched to an agricultural lifestyle from a hunter-gatherer, this carnivorous animal took it as an advantageous chance and moved in to hunt rodents in granaries. Thus, it would not be wrong if we say that cats fundamentally chose to stay with humans!

Later, early farmers in Egypt have also felt the essential roles that cats used to play in vermin management. Undoubtedly, it was a win-win situation for both humans and cats. Cats at that time successfully gained full respect and value. Additionally, cats got to obtain free food, and humans got free pest control mechanisms.

In addition, these mammals became valued and treasured pets in Egyptian culture. Also, it is well documented that felines were also a part of the Egyptian family and culture, and adorned with jewels. To your surprise, cats were highly valued and appreciated, so that the penalty for killing a cat was apparent death in ancient Egypt.

Since that era, cats have been seen as loveable animals and are now considered family members even. They are an optimum source of joy, solace, calmness, and affection in our lives. And, since 2002, all love and praise to the “International Fund for Animal Welfare” (IFAW), felines now have their own holiday declared as Cats’ International Day. Also, since then, individuals across the globe and several national and international organizations have joined in the new ritual of honoring these little kitties.

International Cat Day’s Theme

International Cat Day’s official “custodian” is International Cat Care – an organization working for the prosperity of cats across the globe. According to its official website, “Be Cat Curious – Training for Cats and their Humans” would be the theme of the day this year.

Thus, the Cats’ day celebration is decided on per the campaign and theme “Be Cat Curious” to motivate and encourage people to put a little extra effort to make their felines feel special, spend quality time with them and make sure to learn more about them.

The organization “International Cat Care” says that nearly 95% of cat owners are willing to obtain sessions, training, and learn to train their cats efficiently, with at least half saying that they actually struggled to successfully get their feline into the cat carrier.

Thus, International Cats Day would be celebrated to spread awareness and encourage training for felines and their owners. In addition, to sufficiently and productively commemorate the day, cats’ owners are also invited to share their unique and fun experiences related to training their felines.

Purpose of Celebrating International Cat Day!

Are you thinking, why exceptionally celebrate International Cat Day? Know that a World Cat Day is an obvious way towards:

• Advocating for the welfare and overall wellbeing of cats, all locally, nationally, and internationally.
• Take some time out to relax with your fluffy buddies.
• Commemorating the extraordinarily strong bond with your little kitties.
• Spreading awareness pertaining to ways to make your cat live long and healthily.

International Cat Day, August 8th – An Ultimate Public Awareness Day for Cat Owners

International cat day was made to raise public awareness about cats and teach people how to train, protect and help cats. Additionally, this applies to both – bog wild cats like tigers and lions, and smaller domesticated cats – that are nearly 600 million across the world, including all strays, pets, feral and homeless cats.

In recent times, several nations have celebrated national and international cat days to make people aware of how and why to adopt felines. In 2020, another serious measure was taken when the custodianship of International Cat Day passed on from IFAW to a charity established in 1958 by cat lovers – a British Non-profit International Cat Care, to spread information about cat welfare and health.

It was stated by the organization that “their vision is to enable and encourage people to understand and recognize felines’ individual perspectives and needs, and to work in the interests of cats’ wellbeing and welfare.” In addition, they stated that “they will make their dream come true by sharing knowledge, skills, insights and current best practices to make people feel confident enough in their ability to help felines greatly.”

How to Celebrate International Cat Day?

You can also take part in the festivities of International Cat Day and celebrate it sufficiently by adopting a little furry, feeding feral felines, or perhaps spoiling the ones at your home being your affectionate companions. Thus, anywhere there is a kitty, show some love and affection.

Treat Your Cat with “Catness”

Make sure to treat felines with kindness, respect, and love. Show loving gestures the same way they show towards you – hence, try to reciprocate the same expressions.

Avail The Chance and Spread Awareness

If you really are a cat lover, then you have an ultimate opportunity to show your love for cats and do something for their actual betterment and wellbeing. You can talk in groups – in-person, or use social media platforms to post and publish about cats as well as spread awareness pertaining to respect and value felines in your home.

Help Those That Are in Need

Celebrating International Cat Day by taking serious measures about helping cats would be one of the effective ways. There would be countless homeless cats that you can give food and supplies.

Spend Quality Time with Your Furry-Buddies

Have a little cutie kitty in your home? Then what are you waiting for? International Cat Day is the perfect day to show some love for your kitties and spend quality time with them.

When is International Cat Day – Days by Year

Conclusion

Build a solid and healthy bond with your affectionate furry buddy by saying “Happy International Cat Day” to her next year!