National Cat Day

Introduction

Cats have a way of making themselves right at home in our hearts. They’re playful, independent, curious, and often our closest little companions. National Cat Day gives us a chance to celebrate these lovable pets while remembering the many cats still waiting for safe, caring, and loving homes.

Key takeaways

• National Cat Day is celebrated in the U.S. every year on October 29.
• It honors cats and the companionship they bring.
• The day also raises awareness about cats in shelters and encourages adoption, fostering, volunteering, and donations.
• You can celebrate by giving your cat extra playtime, treats, affection, and a cozy place to relax.

What is National Cat Day?

National Cat Day is an annual U.S. celebration on October 29 that gives cat lovers a perfect excuse to show their furry companions a little extra love. Whether your cat is a playful troublemaker, a professional napper, or the type who acts like they own the house, this is the day to spoil them a bit.

Also, a day dedicated to cats isn’t just a U.S. thing. While October 29 is recognized as National Cat Day in the United States, other countries have their own cat-themed celebrations on different dates. Japan, for example, celebrates Cat Day on February 22, while countries such as Italy and Russia also have their own days honoring cats.

What is the purpose of National Cat Day?

National Cat Day celebrates cats and our love for cats, all while drawing attention to those still waiting for a safe, loving home. Shelters and rescue organizations care for countless cats that need permanent families, and there are plenty of ways you can help. You can adopt or foster a cat, donate money or supplies, volunteer at a local shelter, or share adoption information with friends and family.

The day encourages responsible cat ownership, too. Nutritious food, regular veterinary checkups, a safe environment, exercise, playtime, and affection all help cats live healthier, happier lives. Even simply spending extra time with your feline friends is a great way to celebrate the special bond between people and cats.

When is National Cat Day?

In the USA, National Cat Day is celebrated on October 29 every year. The date remains the same each year.

Future National Cat Day Dates

Year	Day	Date
2026	Thursday	October 29
2027	Friday	October 29
2028	Sunday	October 29
2029	Monday	October 29
2030	Tuesday	October 29
2031	Wednesday	October 29

Other Cat-related Days

• International Cat Day
• National Black Cat Day
• National Hug Your Cat Day
• Take Your Cat to Work Day
• Respect Your Cat Day
• National Cat Lady Day

Brief History

The origin of national cat day dates back to 2005, when pet and family lifestyle expert and animal welfare advocate Colleen Paige created the observance in the United States. Her goal was to encourage people to celebrate the cats in their lives while bringing attention to the many cats in need of rescue and adoption.

Since then, October 29 has become a popular date for shelters, rescue groups, pet businesses, and cat lovers to promote adoption and responsible cat care. The celebration has grown beyond giving your cat an extra treat, with social media playing a big role. People share cat photos, stories, videos, and adoption information, while some shelters host special events to help cats find homes.

How to Celebrate National Cat Day?

Celebrating National Cat Day doesn’t have to cost much. There are many simple ways to celebrate.

Here are a few ideas:

• Give Your Cat Extra Playtime

Break out their favorite wand, ball, or toy mouse and enjoy some extra playtime. It’s a fun way to help your cat stay active while letting them follow their natural hunting instincts.

• Adopt a Cat

If you’re ready for a new pet, visit a local shelter or rescue and meet cats looking for homes. Adoption gives a cat a chance to find a loving family and a fresh start.

• Consider Fostering

Not ready for a permanent commitment? Fostering can still make a huge difference. Giving a shelter cat a temporary home provides a quieter, more comfortable place to stay while they wait for adoption.

• Donate to a Shelter

You don’t have to bring a cat home to help one. Shelters often need food, litter, blankets, toys, cleaning supplies, and financial donations. Check with your local shelter to see what they need most.

• Share an Adoption Post

Scroll through your local shelter’s social media pages and share posts about cats waiting for homes. Your share could help an overlooked cat reach someone searching for a new companion.

• Build a Cozy Cat Corner

Turn an empty cardboard box, blanket, or small corner of your home into a cozy retreat. Cats love having a quiet spot where they can nap, hide, or simply watch the world go by.

• Take Some Cute Photos

Grab your phone and capture your cat doing what they do best: napping, playing, exploring, or begging for treats. Share the photos with friends or on social media, but let your cat stay comfortable and skip forced poses or costumes.

• Give Them a Health Check

Use the day as a reminder to stay on top of your cat’s routine veterinary visits, vaccinations, grooming, and other basic care. Keeping up with these little things can support a healthier, happier life.

Which pet food brands offer National Cat Day promotions?

Around October 29, pet food brands and retailers often roll out special promotions for national cat day, giving cat parents a chance to save on food, treats, and other essentials.

• Royal Canin: Past promotions have included discounts, vouchers, and free shipping on select products.
• Whiskas, Temptations, Sheba & Iams: These brands may feature bundle deals and discounts on food and treats.
• Hill’s Pet Nutrition: Previous promotions have included discounts on selected products at participating retailers.
• Orijen & Acana: Some specialty pet stores have offered discounts on cat food and occasional trial products.
• Chewy, Petco & PetSmart: Major retailers may offer savings on cat food, treats, bundles, and autoship orders.

Deals come and go, and what’s available can change each year. So, before you stock up on your cat’s favorites, take a quick look at the brand’s website or check your local pet store to see what’s on sale.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is National Cat Day always on October 29?

Yes, October 29 is National Cat Day in the United States. However, other cat-themed days exist worldwide. International Cat Day is celebrated on August 8, while other countries have their own cat celebrations.

2. Why is August 8 a Cat Day?

August 8 is International Cat Day, not the U.S. National Cat Day. It was established in 2002 by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) to raise awareness about cat welfare. Since 2020, International Cat Care has been its custodian.