National Cat Day, celebrated across the US on October 29th, is almost here. Founded in 2005 by Colleen Paige, it is the perfect day to raise awareness about the benefits and responsibilities of caring for cats.
Pets bring love and joy to adults and children alike. In the last few years though, many researchers have proven that pet ownership has even more benefits. Babies raised in households with pets are less likely to have allergies or asthma. In addition, living with pets helps children with autism improve their social skills. As we get older, pets also help their owners by reducing their stress, blood pressure, triglyceride, and cholesterol levels, which in turn reduces the risk of heart disease and other illnesses.
With all the benefits that pets provide us, why wouldn't we take any occasion to celebrate and pamper them? Here are a few ways you can show appreciation for your cat on National Cat Day:
New Toys
Nothing says "I love you" like a new toy. Toys keep your cat engaged, interested, and active. Just like humans, most cats love novelty, so this would be a good day to bring your cat several new and different toys. Give her options and see if she has a new favorite type of toy. Last year I got my cat Tessa a Catit Senses Circuit toy. She still plays with it all the time and it helped her lose a little weight.
New Bed
Since we're headed into the cold season, this would be a great day to get your cat a heated bed. These are especially helpful for older cats. If you do not think a heated bed is right, consider a new igloo bed or even a window perch that will give them a view to the outside world. Cats will take over your furniture, but you will be surprised how much they love a bed of their own.
Photo Shoot
Make this a day that is all about them. Give your cat a good brushing, a fancy meal, and maybe some catnip. Get them looking and feeling their best, then start taking pictures. Not all cats will enjoy this, but if your cat is a ham, they will love all the attention. Then have fun uploading all those amazing pictures to your Instagram account, or having your favorite picture printed in a large format and framed to commemorate the day. Let everyone see your best friend, at their best.
Donate to Your Local Shelter
This one is not so much about your cat directly, but about helping all cats. I got my cat from the local shelter and my wish is for all cats there to be as happy as Tessa. This is a good day to remember to give back. Shelters always need food, toys, and blankets for the cats. Help out, however you can.
Dress Up as a Cat
I know what you are thinking: "Really?" Nevertheless, it's only two days from Halloween—you could just be trying out your costume for the big day, or maybe celebrating Halloween early. The other option: wait until Halloween to wear your cat costume and extend your National Cat Day celebration!
However you decide to celebrate, big or small, just remember your cat on October 29th. Let them know how much you appreciate all the love they give you year round and they will be ready to do it for another year.
Guest Post by VK Jocums. Valerie has always loved animals. Throughout her life, she has had chickens, geese, horses, goats, cats, dogs, and macaws. Currently, she is sharing her life with an Australian Shepherd, a tortoiseshell cat, and her husband George. When she isn't mountain biking, practicing her public speaking skills, or reading, she is writing about everything she has learned.
