Sara Nelson
The 2024 cat holidays are going to be a great year for feline lovers! That’s because it’s filled with special days designated just for cats.
From Respect Your Cat Day in March to International Cat Day in August, there are plenty of opportunities to celebrate with your feline friends. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at all of the cat holidays in 2024 and tell you when they’re taking place.
These days, we honor all aspects of our cat’s existence, from serious awareness weeks and months dedicated to the importance of finding homes for shelter cats and keeping them healthy and safe to fun weekends that celebrate the joy our cats give us every day.
So mark your calendars and get ready to party with your kitties!
January 12 – Kiss a Ginger Cat Day
January 12 is a day dedicated to felines with fiery fur, known as Kiss a Ginger Cat Day. This delightful holiday seeks to shower extra love and attention on ginger and orange-colored cats, who often stand out with their striking coats. It’s a day that celebrates the uniqueness of these cats, which make up about 20% of all felines worldwide, and encourages cat owners or cat lovers to show appreciation for these stunning creatures.
On this day, ginger cat owners around the world post adorable pictures of their pets on social media, fostering a sense of community among cat lovers. If you’ve ever shared your home with a ginger cat, you know just how special this day can be. Gather your ginger kittens, adults, and seniors, and make sure to give them an extra kiss on January 12!
January Cat Holidays
- Walk Your Pet Month
- January 2, Happy Mew Year for Cats Day
- January 2, National Pet Safety Travel Day
- January 6, National Cuddle Up Day
- January 12, Kiss a Ginger Cat Day
- January 14, National Dress Up Your Pet Day
- January 22, Answer Your Cat Question Day
- January 24, Tuxedo Cat Appreciation Day.
February – National Cat Health Month
February is recognized as National Cat Health Month, an annual observance aimed at promoting cat health awareness. It’s a period when pet owners, vets, and pet associations underscore the value of regular vet check-ups, proper nutrition, mental stimulation, and overall welfare for cats. The celebration is a reminder for cat owners to prioritize their pets’ health and happiness.
National Cat Health Month is also about educating people on common cat health issues and preventative care. It emphasizes mental stimulation through play, maintaining healthy weight, and companionship as essential aspects of cat care. Pet owners are encouraged to share their experiences with cat health issues, fostering a community that prioritizes preventive pet health care, making February an ideal time to refocus on feline well-being.
February Cat Holidays
- Feline Fix by Five Awareness Month
- Black Dog and Cat Syndrome Awareness Month.
- National Cat Health Month
- Spay\/Neuter Awareness Month (Humane Society of the United States)
- Pet Dental Health Month
- Responsible Pet Owners Month
- National Prevent a Litter Month
- February 5th- World Animal Reiki Day.
- February 13, Kitten Bowl VIII (Hallmark Channel) (https://www.hallmarkchannel.com/kitten-bowl)
- February 13, Cat intine Day (not official, yet)
- February 14, Pet Theft Awareness Day
- February 17, Cat Day (Dzień kota) in Poland.
- February 17, Cat Day in Italy.
- February 18 to 24, National Drink Wine with Your Cat Week
- February 20, Love Your Pet Day
- February 22, Cat Day in Japan.
- February 22, Marie Day.
- February 20-26, National Justice for Animals Week
- February 22, World Spay Day (Annual campaign Humane Society International and Humane Society of the US)
- February 22, Spay USA Day (last Tuesday of February)
March 23 – Cuddly Kitten Day
Celebrated on March 23rd, Cuddly Kitten Day is a day dedicated to the cuteness and cuddliness of baby cats. It’s a day that encourages cat lovers and owners worldwide to cuddle with their kittens and appreciate the joy these furry little creatures bring into their lives. This day is also an ideal time for potential cat parents to consider adopting a kitten from a local shelter, giving them a warm and loving home.
Cuddly Kitten Day not only promotes the special bond between cats and humans but also highlights the importance of taking care of these adorable creatures. The day is often marked with cuddle sessions, sharing cute kitten photos on social media, and even hosting kitten-themed parties. March 23rd serves as a delightful reminder of the happiness and warmth that kittens bring into our lives.
March Cat Holidays
- National Pet Poison Prevention Month
- March 2, International Rescue Cat Day
- March 3, If Cats Had Thumbs Day
- March 6 -12, Professional Pet Sitters Week (28th annual celebration) (first full week in March)
- March 14 – 21, Pet Theft Awareness Week
- March 15, National Catio Day
- March 17, St. Gertrude of Nivelles Day (“The Cat Lady of the Catholic Church”)
- March 20-26, National Poison Prevention Week (third full week in March)
- March 23, Cuddly Kitten Day
- March 28, Respect Your Cat Day
- March 30, Take a Walk in the Park Day
April 19 – National Cat Lady Day
National Cat Lady Day, celebrated on April 19th, is a day to honor and appreciate all the self-proclaimed “cat ladies” out there. The day breaks stereotypes and celebrates the women who have dedicated their time, love, and resources to caring for cats. It’s a day that recognizes these women not as the cliched image of a ‘lonely woman with many cats,’ but rather as strong, compassionate individuals who choose to share their lives with these beautiful creatures.
National Cat Lady Day seeks to showcase the positive side of being a cat lady, honoring their passion for feline care and welfare. Social media platforms fill with photos and stories shared by proud cat ladies across the globe, celebrating their bond with their feline companions. This day also encourages the understanding and acceptance of the love for cats and serves as a reminder of the joys of cat ownership.
So, on April 19th, let’s celebrate the cat ladies in our lives and acknowledge their invaluable contribution to feline happiness and well-being.
April Cat Holidays
- National Heartworm Awareness Month
- National Pet First Aid Awareness Month
- Prevention to Cruelty to Animals Month (ASPCA)
- National Pet Month – UK
- April 4, World Stray Animal Day
- April 6, National Siamese Cat Day
- April 7, World Health Day
- April 10-16, Animal Care and Control Appreciation Week (second full week of April)
- April 11, National Pet Day
- April 11, Celebrate Shelter Pets Day
- April 17-23, National Pet ID Week
- April 17-23, Animal Cruelty\/Human Violence Awareness Week (Humane Society of the US – third week in April)
- April 17-23, Veterinary Receptionist Week
- April 18, Pet Owners Independence Day
- April 19, National Cat Lady Day
- April 19, Pet Owners Day
- April 24, National Pet Parent Day (last Sunday in April)
- April 26, National Kids & Pets Day
- April 29, Hairball Awareness Day (last Friday in April)
- April 30, National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day
- April 30, National Therapy Animal Day
- April 30, World Veterinary Day (last Saturday in April. World Veterinary Association)
- April 30, National Tabby Day
May – American Humane Be Kind to Animals Week
Established in 1915, American Humane Be Kind to Animals Week, celebrated in May, is one of the oldest commemorative weeks in U.S. history, dedicated to promoting kindness towards all animals and celebrating the unique bond between humans and animals. This week-long event encourages people of all ages to show compassion to our furry, feathery, and scaly friends. Activities during this week involve spreading messages about animal welfare, promoting pet adoption, and teaching children about how to care for pets responsibly.
American Humane Be Kind to Animals Week is not just about demonstrating love and care for pets, but it also stresses the importance of wildlife conservation and farm animal welfare. Individuals, families, schools, and communities are encouraged to participate in various activities, like volunteering at local animal shelters, fundraising, and creating awareness about animal rights and protection laws. This week serves as a remarkable reminder that all creatures deserve respect, love, and kindness.
May Cat Holidays
- Pet Cancer Awareness Month
- Chip Your Pet Month
- National Pet Month
- Pet Sitter Safety Month
- Responsible Animal Guardian Month
- May 1-7, American Humane Be Kind to Animals Week (celebrated since 1915, always first full week of May)
- May 1-7, National Pet Week (American Veterinary Medical Association – first full week in May)
- May 3, National Specially-abled Pets Day
- May 5, Cinco de Mayo or Cinco de Meow Day
- May 8, Mother’s Day – perfect for any cat mom!
- May 14, National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day (second Saturday in May)
- May 27, National Road Trip Day – perfect to bring your cat along to enjoy the drive.
June – Adopt-a-Shelter-Cat Month
June is recognized as Adopt-a-Shelter-Cat Month, a month dedicated to raising awareness about the countless number of wonderful cats in shelters waiting for a loving home. Initiated by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), this observance encourages prospective pet owners to consider adopting cats from shelters, promoting the message that every cat deserves a safe, loving home.
Adopt-a-Shelter-Cat Month is a significant time for animal shelters as it coincides with the peak of “kitten season” – a time when shelters are filled with a higher number of cats. During this month, animal lovers are encouraged to spread the word about the importance of adoption, volunteer at their local shelters, or offer donations.
Whether it’s adopting a cat, fostering, donating, or volunteering, every action taken during this month contributes to giving shelter cats a second chance at life.
June Cat Holidays
- Adopt-a-Cat Month (American Humane Association)
- Adopt-a-Shelter-Cat Month (ASPCA) (Also marks the height of kitten season)
- National Pet Preparedness Month (Timed for the first month of hurricane season, urges people with pets to make preparations in case they should be hit by a disaster including making plans for what you would do with your cat in case of a hurricane, tornado, flood or other natural disasters)
- National Foster a Pet Month
- National Microchipping Month
- June 4, Hug Your Cat Day
- June 2-8, Pet Appreciation Week
- June 8, Best Friends Day – well, your cat is your best friend, right?
- June 14, World Pet Memorial Day (second Saturday in June)
- June 12-18, Animal Rights Awareness Week (third week in June)
- June 17, Take Your Cat to Work Day
- June 18, National Internet Cat Day/Veterinary Appreciation Day
- June 19, National Garfield the Cat Day
- June 19, Father’s Day – perfect as well for any cat dad!
- June 20, Take Your Cat to Work Day
- June 20–24, Take Your Pet to Work Week
- June 24, Cat World Domination Day
- June 29, World Day Against the Abandonment of Domestic Animals
July 10 -National Kitten Day
Observed on July 10th, National Kitten Day is a day to celebrate the adorable and cuddly charm of kittens. This day is all about increasing public awareness about the importance of adoption and proper care of kittens. It’s a day devoted to celebrating the love and joy that these tiny feline companions bring into our lives, while also drawing attention to the many kittens in shelters and rescue centers that need good homes.
National Kitten Day is not just about petting and playing with kittens, but it also serves to educate people about responsible kitten care, including the importance of spaying and neutering. Many animal welfare organizations, shelters, and rescues across the country host special events or run promotions on this day to encourage adoption, foster care, and volunteering.
Whether it’s adopting a kitten, donating to a local shelter, or simply sharing cute photos of kittens on social media, everyone can take part in making National Kitten Day a success.
July Cat Holidays
- National Lost Pet Prevention Month
- National Pet Hydration Awareness Month
- July 1, ID Your Pet Day
- July 4, Independence Day
- July 5, National Pet Remembrance Day
- July 10, National Kitten Day
- July 11, All-American Pet Photo Day
- July 15, National Pet Fire Safety Day
- July 21, National Craft for your Local Shelters Day
- July 24, National Parents Day (fourth Sunday in July)
August 8 – International Cat Day
International Cat Day, celebrated on August 8th, is a day dedicated to honoring and appreciating all cats across the globe. Originally created in 2002 by the International Fund for Animal Welfare, this day seeks to celebrate the bond between cats and humans, recognizing the comfort and companionship they provide. It’s also a day to raise awareness about the number of cats that need to be rescued each year and promote the importance of cat welfare.
International Cat Day serves as an opportunity for cat lovers and owners to celebrate their feline friends in various ways. From sharing photos or videos of their cats on social media to spoiling them with extra attention, treats, and playtime, this day is all about making our cats feel loved and special.
It’s also a great time to donate to cat charities, volunteer at local shelters, or even adopt a cat in need of a home. This day, overall, emphasizes the significance of respecting and caring for our feline friends and their well-being.
August Cat Holidays
- Itchy Pet Awareness Month
- Rawgust (celebrating raw feeding for pets)
- August 8, International Cat Day
- August 10, National Lazy Day
- August 15, National Check the Chip Day (AVMA and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) joined together to create Check the Chip Day)
- August 17, National Black Cat Appreciation Day
- August 20, International Homeless Animals Day (Third Saturday in August)
- August 22, National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day
- August 28, Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day
- August 30, National Holistic Pet Day
September – Happy Cat Month
September is recognized as Happy Cat Month, an event initiated by the CATalyst Council to improve cat wellness by focusing on their happiness. The main purpose of this month-long celebration is to highlight the importance of cats’ emotional well-being and to encourage cat owners to take steps to ensure their furry friends are not just healthy but also happy.
Each week of Happy Cat Month has its own specific theme intended to promote different aspects of feline health and happiness. Themes typically revolve around concepts like valuing cats, providing proper preventative healthcare, ensuring constant enrichment, and understanding the behaviors of cats.
This month is the perfect time for cat owners to educate themselves about what they can do to further improve their cat’s happiness, whether it’s more playtime, socialization, or regular check-ups with the vet. Through Happy Cat Month, the CATalyst Council aims to create a better and happier world for cats.
September Cat Holidays
- Happy Cat Month
- National Disaster Preparedness Month
- Animal Pain Awareness Month
- National Pet Insurance Month – check our blog about the best pet insurance to get for your kitty!
- Pet Sitter Education Month
- September 1, Ginger Cat Appreciation Day
- September 12, National Pet Memorial Day (established by the International Association of Pet Cemeteries (IAPC) – second Sunday in September)
- September 13, Pet Birth Defect Awareness Day (a day dedicated to the issue of pet birth defects including information on identification, prevention and treatment)
- September 19, National Meow Like a Pirate Day
- September 19-25, Adopt a Less-Adoptable Pet Week (third week in September)
- September 19-24, National Deaf Pet Awareness Week
- September 20-26, Animal Welfare Week
- September 22, First Day of Fall
- September 22, Remember Me Thursday (fourth Thursday of September)
- September 25, World’s Largest Pet Walk
- September 28, World Rabies Day (sponsored by the Global Alliance for Rabies Control)
October 27 – National Black Cat Day
Celebrated on October 27th, National Black Cat Day is a day dedicated to celebrating and promoting black cats who are often overlooked for adoption because of superstitions and misconceptions associated with their color.
The purpose of this day is to dispel myths about black cats and encourage people to appreciate their unique charm. Initiated by various animal welfare organizations, this day aims to raise awareness about the lower adoption rates of black cats and challenges the negative stereotypes surrounding them.
National Black Cat Day encourages people to show love and appreciation for black cats by adopting one from a local shelter or rescue center. It’s a day for black cat owners and fans to share positive stories and cute photos of their pets on social media with the aim of changing public perception.
The theme of National Black Cat Day is mainly centered around celebrating the beauty of these felines and highlighting their need for homes, love, and respect just like any other cats. This day serves as a great opportunity to debunk myths and celebrate the love and companionship that black cats bring into our lives.
October Cat Holidays
- National Animal Safety and Protection Month
- National Pet Wellness Month
- October 2-8, Animal Welfare Week (first week of October, starting on Sunday)
- October 4, World Animal Day & World Pet Day
- October 4, Feast of St Francis of Assisi (The feast commemorates the life of St Francis, who was born in the 12th century and is the Catholic Church’s patron saint of animals and the environment. It is a popular day for pets to be blessed)
- October 12, National Pet Obesity Awareness Day
- October 16-22, National Veterinary Technician Week (sponsored by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians of America)
- October 16, National Feral Cat Day
- October 16, Global Cat Day (previously Feral Cat Day, Alley Cat Allies)
- October 14, Vet Nurse’s Day – (celebrated the second Friday in October)
- October. 21, National Pets for Veterans Day
- October 21, Cure4Cats Day (Winn Feline Foundation)
- October 27, National Black Cat Day in the UK
- October. 28, Plush Animal Lovers’ Day (perfect day to buy your pet a new squeaky toy)
- October 29, National Cat Day
November – Adopt a Senior Pet Month
November is recognized as Adopt a Senior Pet Month, a month dedicated to helping older pets find loving homes. The event was established by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), with a mission to remind potential pet owners that love doesn’t age, encouraging them to consider adopting senior pets who are often overlooked in favor of puppies and kittens in shelters and rescues.
The primary purpose of Adopt a Senior Pet Month is to raise awareness about the challenges faced by senior pets in finding homes and to highlight the benefits of adopting an older pet. Contrary to common belief, senior pets can make wonderful companions as they are typically calm, house-trained, and less demanding than their younger counterparts.
Throughout November, animal shelters and rescue centers often host special events or offer discounted adoption fees for senior pets to encourage adoption. The main theme of the month is to spread the message that older pets deserve a second chance at a happy life, too.
November Cat Holidays
- Adopt a Senior Pet Month
- National Senior Pet Month
- Pet Cancer Awareness Month
- Pet Diabetes Month
- National Pet Awareness Month
- November 1, National Cook for Your Pets Day
- November 6-12, National Animal Shelter & Rescue Appreciation Week (sponsored by the Humane Society of the US – first full week of November)
- November 14 – 20, Human-Animal Relationship Awareness Week (celebrated annually during the second full week in November, to honor relationships between pets and their humans)
- November 17, National Black Cat Day (also celebrated on Aug. 17)
December – National Cat Lover’s Month
December is not just a month for holiday cheer but also a time to celebrate National Cat Lover’s Month. This special month is dedicated to celebrating all the cat lovers out there and their feline friends. The primary purpose of this month-long celebration is to acknowledge and promote the bond between humans and cats, appreciating the joy, comfort, and companionship that cats bring into our lives.
The theme of National Cat Lover’s Month revolves around showing appreciation for our feline friends and promoting their welfare. Cat lovers are encouraged to celebrate in various ways, such as spending extra quality time with their cats, sharing their favorite cat photos on social media, or even volunteering at local cat shelters. It’s also the perfect time to ensure that our cats are healthy, safe, and loved.
Whether it’s through adoption, donation, or simply spreading awareness about the joys of being a cat owner, everyone can contribute to the celebration of National Cat Lover’s Month.
December Cat Holidays
- National Cat Lovers’ Month
- Safe Toys and Gifts Month
- December 5, Volunteer Day
- December 5, Celebrate Shelter Pets Day
- December 9, International Day of Veterinary Medicine
- December 15, National Cat Herder’s Day
It may come as a surprise, but these are just several cat-related holidays that pet owners and cat lovers around the world celebrate every year.
In fact, even some of the most prominent cat-related organizations (such as the ASPCA) celebrate them.
They organize events and initiatives to raise awareness for medical issues or simply spread happiness among current and soon-to-be cat owners.
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