International Cat Day: How You Can Celebrate

PENNSYLVANIA (WHTM) - If you love cats or have your own cat, get ready to celebrate because today is International Cat Day! There are many ways to congratulate your furry friend.

International Cat Day falls on August 8th. This day is celebrated every year on August 8, but don't confuse it with National Cat Day, which is celebrated in October. International Cat Day was actually created in 2002 by the International Animal Welfare Fund to celebrate our feline companions and raise awareness of their needs.

Here are some ways to celebrate International Cat Day:

Adopt a cat from a local shelter

If you're like me, a trip to the local animal shelter can turn into a full day trip. It's hard not to take your cat with you. If you have the funds and are willing to adopt a cat or other pet, the best place to start is with a local kennel. My family has even adopted rescue cats from overseas so you can walk with your new best friend.

Feed the local cats

Caution is always important when handling feral cats, but if you feel comfortable feeding local cats this is a great way to make sure they have a happy life. Of course, check with your neighbors and other family members before feeding feral cats. Cats will love you forever and your home will be their new meeting place.

Spay, Neuter or Spay and release

If you want to help local cats, it is worth going through the Catch, Spay, or Spay and Release (TNR) programs first. These programs require you to capture a feral cat, send it to be neutered or neutered, and then released back into the wild. If you see a cat and notice that it has a folded ear, then it is in the TNR program. TNR programs operate across the country. This program is very important for reducing the number of feral cats and ensuring their safe life.

Learn more about TNR.

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Volunteer at a local shelter

Volunteering at a local kennel can be a great way to help adopt cats if you're not interested in them or can't afford to adopt them. Many animal shelters offer part-time volunteer hours where you can come and help clean animal cages, interact with them, feed them, and play with them.

Find out more about volunteer opportunities here.

Buy a gift for your cat

Since this is a trend beyond gifts, I've definitely given my cats some pretty funny gifts. Scare your cat with a cat bite, a cat tunnel, hair on a stick, a new mouse toy, a heated blanket or a cat roller. Yes, you read that correctly. Cat wheel Cat wheels are essentially giant wheels that look like hamster wheels. This is not only fun for your cat, but also fun for you and good exercise for your cat.

Take care of your cat and yourself

Because it is a vacation, it requires delights! Treat your cat to her favorite treats or even try baking a cat cake for her. Just be careful as some foods can be toxic to cats, so research them beforehand. If you give your cat a treat, you may receive it because you are their favorite person.

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Celebrating the International Cat Day🐱