International Cat Day: Everything you need to know

Celebrating International Cat Day: Paying Tribute and Raising Awareness for Our Feline Companions

International Cat Day is a special celebration dedicated to one of the world’s most beloved pets. The event highlights the importance of cats in our lives, as well as the actions needed to ensure their well-being. Here’s everything you need to know about the day, answering the essential questions: who, when, where, why, and what.

Who celebrates International Cat Day?

International Cat Day is celebrated by cat lovers, cat owners, animal welfare organizations, and anyone who cares about animals. Veterinarians, animal welfare organizations, and shelters also actively participate in this special day.

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When is International Cat Day?

International Cat Day is celebrated every year on August 8. This date was chosen by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) in 2002 to raise awareness about the plight of cats and promote their welfare. International Cat Day allows people to come together each year on this date to pay tribute to their feline companions.

  • 2024 : Thursday August 8
  • 2025 : Friday August 8
  • 2026 : Saturday August 8
  • 2027 : Sunday August 8
  • 2028 : Tuesday August 8
  • 2029 : Wednesday August 8
  • 2030 : Thursday August 8
  • 2031 : Friday August 8
  • 2032 : Sunday August 8
  • 2033 : Monday August 8
  • 2034 : Tuesday August 8
  • 2035 : Wednesday August 8

Where is International Cat Day celebrated?

The celebration of International Cat Day is global. All over the world, events and activities are organized to celebrate cats. Whether in Europe, America, Asia or elsewhere, International Cat Day is an opportunity to pay tribute to our feline friends and promote their well-being through local and international initiatives.

Why do we celebrate International Cat Day?

The main objective of International Cat Day is to:

  1. Raising awareness about cat protection : Promote the importance of protecting domestic and stray cats. International Cat Day serves as an opportunity to remind the public of the importance of caring for these animals and protecting them from abuse.
  2. Encourage adoption : Promote shelters and cats available for adoption, and encourage people to adopt rather than buy. International Cat Day aims to reduce the number of homeless cats by encouraging adoption.
  3. Promoting Cat Welfare : Raise awareness of cats’ needs for care, nutrition, and enriched environments. International Cat Day is an opportunity to share tips and information on how to best care for your cat.
  4. Combat animal abuse : Raise awareness of the abuse and neglect that cats can suffer and promote laws for their protection. International Cat Day serves as a reminder of the importance of legislation and action against cruelty to animals.

What to do to celebrate International Cat Day?

During International Cat Day, various activities and initiatives are implemented:

  1. Adoption Events : Many shelters hold open houses to encourage cat adoptions. Participating in these events is a great way to celebrate International Cat Day by providing a home for a cat in need.
  2. Awareness campaigns : Animal welfare organizations launch campaigns to educate the public about the needs and care of cats. International Cat Day is a great time to educate yourself and others.
  3. Fundraisers : Events are held to raise funds to support shelters and spay/neuter programs. International Cat Day may include rummage sales, marathons, and other fundraising activities.
  4. Social Media Sharing : People are encouraged to share photos and stories of their cats with specific hashtags to celebrate the day. Using hashtags like #InternationalCatDay allows people to participate in a global movement and show their love for cats.
  5. Articles and Blogs : Media outlets and bloggers publish articles to inform and raise awareness about different aspects related to cats. International Cat Day is an opportunity to read and share educational and inspiring content about cats.


International Cat Day is a special occasion to show our love and appreciation for cats, while promoting their welfare and protection. Whether you are a passionate cat owner or simply an animal lover, this day is the perfect time to participate in the many activities and initiatives organized in honor of our feline companions.

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