International Cat Day, led by the international cat welfare organization iCatCare.org on August 8th each year, is a day to appreciate, honor, and protect our feline friends. Whether it's advocating for the rights of strays and rescues or providing the best care for our own cats at home, today is a day to take action. Here are five impactful ways to celebrate all cats, from those that share your home to those still waiting to find their forever families.

5 Ways To Celebrate International Cat Day

1.Make a donation in your cat’s name.

One meaningful way to honor International Cat Day is by making a donation to your local animal shelter or humane society in your cat's name. August 8th marks the tail end of kitten season across many regions, leaving animal rescue organizations overwhelmed with adoptable cats. Your contribution can support veterinary care, behavioral rehabilitation, and day-to-day care of cats in need. Even small financial donations go a long way, as shelters are able to purchase supplies in bulk, though donations of food, bedding, cleaning supplies, and other necessities is much appreciated. Check your local shelter’s website or call to find out how you can donate, what kind of supplies are needed, or how you can shop their online wishlist to have supplies send directly to the shelter.

2.Consider adopting a new friend (or two!)

If you have room in your home (and your heart!) consider adopting a cat from your local shelter. Kittens are best adopted in pairs, as they tend to match one another’s energy and need for companionship, though single kittens are in need of homes too. If you’re not sure if you can take on a kitten, adult cats that have outgrown the playful, needy stage often desire little more than a lap to nap on.

3.Give your cat a spa day.

International Cat Day is the purrfect time to show your cats at home some one-on-one attention. Many cats love to be brushed, and regular grooming is essential even for those with a short, smooth coat. Brushing is a great way to remove loose hair, shed undercoat, increase circulation, and distribute the skin’s natural oils, leaving the coat soft and shiny. If your cat enjoys grooming, take your time with a long, relaxing brushing session. For cats that aren’t a fan of being groomed, keep it short and sweet with plenty of breaks for massages, chin scratchies and cheek rubs.

4.Recharge your cat’s toys.

Does your cat have heaps of old toys that they no longer play with? As long as they’re clean and have no broken parts, you can “recharge,” them by re-infusing with catnip. Place your cat’s toys in a jar or baggie, along with a generous helping of catnip. Shake them up and the toys marinate for at least an hour. Then, hide them in the folds of a blanket or toss them around the room. Finally, release your cat and let the fun begin. Your cat will have a ball with their newly supercharged toys!

5.Set up a bird feeder.

Fall is just around the corner, and wild birds can use extra protein to start bulking for the winter. Set up a bird feeder to help your local feather friends, while creating an entertaining avian hotspot for your cat to observe. Placing a bird feeder within your cat's view by a window can provide hours of mental stimulation each day. See if your cat "chatters" at the birds outside and swishes their tail, daydreaming about the thrill of the hunt.

VISION

Every pet deserves to live a long, happy, healthy life.