International Cat Day

International Cat Day History

International Cat Day is celebrated around the world to raise awareness of cats, their needs and to celebrate their unique personalities. The day is also an opportunity to promote cat adoption, spaying/neutering, and responsible pet ownership. International Cat Day was first celebrated in 2002 and was created by the International Fund for Animal Welfare. The day has grown in popularity worldwide and now encourages cat lovers to share photos, stories and promote feline welfare on social media using the hashtag #InternationalCatDay.

In South Africa, International Cat Day is celebrated by various animal shelters, rescue organizations, and cat lovers who use the day to highlight the importance of caring for cats and addressing feline welfare issues. This day also emphasizes the bond between humans and cats and encourages responsible pet ownership in the country. South Africa is home to large numbers of cats and has a growing number of animal rescue organizations and shelters that work to protect and care for felines in need. International Cat Day is observed annually on August 8th.

International Cat Day facts

• According to a study from the National Institutes of Health, children under 1 year old who were exposed to a cat were less likely to develop allergies.
• According to a study from the Mayo Clinic Center for Sleep Medicine, 41% of respondents said they slept better because of their pet.
• The African wildcat (Felis silvestris lybica) is the ancestor of the modern domestic cat and can still be found in certain parts of South Africa.
• The Cape Floristic Region in South Africa is home to the black-footed cat (Felis nigripes), the smallest wild cat species in Africa.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for International Cat Day

Top things to do in South Africa for International Cat Day

• Check out upcoming events and programs. International Cat Day hosts events to help cat lovers celebrate and learn more about cats.
• Spend time with your feline friends today. Buy them a new toy, let them try some new catnip, show them that you care.
• Visit the Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre in Hartbeespoort. The centre is focused on the conservation of cheetahs and other endangered species like wild dogs, African wildcats, and servals. Book a tour and spend the day learning about these incredible feline species.
• Visit shelters like the Johannesburg SPCA, Durban & Coast SPCA, Mdzananda Animal Clinic in Cape Town, or Tears Animal Rescue to volunteer your time and spend the day with their feline residents.