Purrfect Celebration: How to Honour International Cat Day
Saturday 8th, August 2026
If your lap is currently occupied by a purring feline and your camera roll is packed with photos of your cat sleeping in bizarre positions, you are well prepared for International Cat Day!
Celebrated globally on 8th August, this special day is dedicated to appreciating one of humanity's most ancient and beloved companions. Whether your cat is an energetic acrobat, a quiet lap lounger, or a rescue with a heart of gold, today is all about showering them with the love, care, and attention they deserve.
International Cat Day was established in 2002 by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW). The goal was not only to celebrate our feline friends, but also to raise awareness about cat welfare, rescue initiatives, and responsible pet ownership worldwide.
In 2020, custody of International Cat Day was passed to International Cat Care, a global non-profit organisation dedicated to improving the health and welfare of all cats worldwide through evidence-based care and education.
Good awareness on this day helps shine a light on the millions of cats in rescues and shelters waiting for a second chance at a loving, forever home.
Cats can be famously particular, but celebrating with them does not have to be complicated. Here are a few ways to make the day extra special for your feline companion:
Want to extend the celebration beyond your own living room? Here are wonderful ways to make a broader impact:
So grab a feather toy, clear off a sunny spot on the sofa, and give your cat an extra chin scratch, they have certainly earned it!
Celebrated globally on 8th August, this special day is dedicated to appreciating one of humanity's most ancient and beloved companions. Whether your cat is an energetic acrobat, a quiet lap lounger, or a rescue with a heart of gold, today is all about showering them with the love, care, and attention they deserve.
The Origin: How the Day Began
International Cat Day was established in 2002 by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW). The goal was not only to celebrate our feline friends, but also to raise awareness about cat welfare, rescue initiatives, and responsible pet ownership worldwide.
In 2020, custody of International Cat Day was passed to International Cat Care, a global non-profit organisation dedicated to improving the health and welfare of all cats worldwide through evidence-based care and education.
Good awareness on this day helps shine a light on the millions of cats in rescues and shelters waiting for a second chance at a loving, forever home.
Pro Tips for Making Your Cat Feel Extra Special
Cats can be famously particular, but celebrating with them does not have to be complicated. Here are a few ways to make the day extra special for your feline companion:
- Engage in Active Play: Spend 15 minutes engaging your cat's natural hunting instincts with feather wands, laser pointers, or puzzle toys.
- Create a High-Up Lookout Spot: Cats love elevation. Clear a spot on a high bookshelf or place a cat tree near a sunny window so they can safely watch birds and outdoor activity.
- Treat Them Mindfully: Offer a favourite high-value treat, a spoonful of cat-safe wet food, or a pinch of fresh catnip for a fun sensory experience.
- Respect Their Space: Remember that every cat shows affection differently. If your cat prefers quiet companionship over cuddles, let them set the pace and relax alongside them.
Creative Ways to Support the Feline Community
Want to extend the celebration beyond your own living room? Here are wonderful ways to make a broader impact:
- Support a Local Shelter: Donate blankets, unopened food, or toys to a nearby rescue centre, or consider sponsoring a cat's medical care.
- Consider Adoption or Fostering: If you have room in your heart and home, reach out to local rescues to learn about fostering or adopting a cat in need.
- Share and Educate: Post photos of your feline friend on social media using the hashtag #InternationalCatDay to promote positive pet parenting and adoption awareness.
So grab a feather toy, clear off a sunny spot on the sofa, and give your cat an extra chin scratch, they have certainly earned it!