International Cat Day 2023: Date, History, Facts, Activities

International Cat Day is observed on August 8, honouring one of man’s most common and ancient companions. They have even been revered as gods (we’re looking at you, Egypt). Cats are one of the coolest creatures on the planet: they are independent, inquisitive, adventurous, have an incredible physique, and have the ability to heal themselves — at least most of the time.

The background of International Cat Day

Cats are typically small, furry, carnivorous mammals with four legs, a tail, and claws. They have been domesticated by humans as pets since ancient times, despite deriving from the African wildcat and being used to capture rodents.

Cats were first mentioned by humans in the culture of the Ancient Egyptian Civilization. We all seem to associate cats with the Egyptians due to their devotion to and worship of cats as gods. During the First Dynasty, Mafdet was the first known cat deity and was revered as a protector against snakes, scorpions, and evil; therefore, cats were not only deities, but also protectors.

After the fall of the Egyptian Dynasty, cats became renowned worldwide! Greeks and Romans used cats for pest control, and cats were originally possessed by the wealthy in the East. Cats became associated with superstition and suspected of carrying the disease during the Black Death of 1348 during the Middle Ages in Europe. This is why so many cats were slain during this time period, and it wasn’t until the 1600s that cats’ reputation began to recover.

Cats were transported to America as part of the colonisation ships’ cargo in an effort to control vermin and disease; consequently, these cats flourished upon arrival. Cats appear to be one of the most popular emblems in modern society, and there are approximately 500 million of them. And, since 2002, the “International Fund for Animal Welfare” has provided cats with their own holiday!

Since August 3, 2020, the foremost cat welfare organisation, International Cat Care, has been in charge of International Cat Day. Since 1958, they have fought against cruelty, prejudice, and misunderstanding to improve the lives of cats. With an estimated global cat population of 600 million, half of which are likely feral, their mission has never been more crucial. Visit the charity’s website for additional information.

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CAT-RELATED INTERNATIONAL DAY ACTIVITIES

Time to contribute to those in need

There are many homeless cats throughout the globe; therefore, what better day to show them respect and affection than by providing them with food and supplies?

Spend time with your fluffy children

If you own a cat, International Cat Day is the ideal occasion to celebrate and express your affection for your pet.

They should be treated with “catness”

Even if you dislike cats, remember to treat them with respect and compassion, and use this opportunity to raise awareness on social media about cat respect.

5 FACTS ABOUT CATS THAT MAY ASTOUND YOU

Merlin, a British Black and White Cat, holds the record for the strongest purr with 67.8db.

Your kitten can reach velocities of approximately 30 miles per hour!

According to “Guinness World Records,” Blackie inherited a 7-million-pound fortune when his affluent owner died.

Cats lack the ability to detect sweetness, which explains why they have no attraction to it.

According to scientific research, cats only use their meows to communicate with humans and not with each other, with the exception of newborns and their mothers.

INTERNATIONAL CAT DAY DATES