National Cat Day History

National Cat Day is a special observance dedicated to celebrating the feline companions that enrich our lives and advocating for cats in need. Its core purpose is to encourage the public to recognize the significant number of cats residing in shelters and to promote adoption as a primary means of finding them loving homes. The day also serves as an opportunity to appreciate the unique personalities and unconditional love that cats bring to their human families.

This observance was established in 2005 by Colleen Paige, an animal welfare advocate and pet lifestyle expert, with the goal of raising awareness for shelter cats and encouraging adoption. In the United States, National Cat Day has become a widely recognized event, fostering a surge in shelter donations and adoptions. It aims to highlight the importance of spaying and neutering pets to help reduce the population of homeless animals.

In America, National Cat Day is observed on October 29th each year. People celebrate by showering their own cats with extra attention, toys, and treats. Many also use this day to support animal shelters through donations of food, blankets, or funds, or by volunteering their time. For those considering adding a pet to their family, it is a popular day to visit a local shelter and adopt a cat or kitten. Social media also plays a role, with many sharing photos of their cats using the hashtag #NationalCatDay.

Top 10 Facts for National Cat Day in 2026

• While National Cat Day is a time for celebration, it carries a serious mission to raise public awareness regarding the millions of cats that require rescue and adoption from shelters each year.
• Founded in 2005 by pet and family lifestyle expert Colleen Paige, the day is intended to encourage cat lovers to celebrate the companionship of their pets while advocating for those still waiting for forever homes.
• The observance is strategically placed on the calendar just two days after National Black Cat Day, creating a dedicated week of feline-focused awareness in late October before the holiday season.
• Shelters across the country frequently utilize this date to host special adoption events, provide educational resources on responsible pet ownership, and advocate for spaying and neutering to help manage the cat population.
• National Cat Day is distinct from International Cat Day, which is a separate global observance held annually on August 8 that focuses on a broader range of feline welfare and educational issues.
• The holiday serves as a popular social media event where cat owners 'break the internet' by sharing photos and videos of their pets to highlight the joy and unique quirks cats bring into their lives.
• Despite its wide recognition and popularity, National Cat Day is not a federal holiday, meaning businesses, schools, and government offices continue to operate as usual.
• Many supporters choose to mark the day by donating essential items such as blankets, food, and toys to local animal rescues or by volunteering their time to assist shelter staff.
• The movement emphasizes the scientifically documented benefits of cat companionship, including the ability of felines to help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and alleviate feelings of social isolation for their human guardians.
• The observance celebrates all cats, from pampered indoor pets to community cats, and reminds the public of the importance of providing a safe, healthy, and enriching life for all felines.

In the News and Trending in the US for National Cat Day

Top things to do in the US for National Cat Day

• Adopt a cat. There are local shelters in most counties that pick up strays or take in animals that have been given up or abandoned. Visit your local shelter to pick up a new companion.
• Watch a movie about cats. Some of our favorites: The Aristocrats (1970), African Cats (2011), Garfield (2004),The Secret Life of Cats (2014) and Puss In Boots (2011).
• Visit a cat-themed museum or exhibition, such as the American Museum of the House Cat in North Carolina.
• Watch The Aristocats (1970).