Cats lived alongside humans for thousands of years before the slow process of domestication began developing about 12,000 years ago. For anyone living with cats today, they know their soft, warm, affectionate companions are still not that far from those wild beasts of the past. Now cats have a day dedicated just for them. Celebrate your beloved feline friends on National Cat Day.

HISTORY OF NATIONAL CAT DAY

Focused domestication is considered to have begun in the Middle East in countries such as Iraq and Lebanon and the area now called Israel and Palestine. Before that, cats were untamed creatures. Sailors brought them onboard ships to protect food supplies. These voyages helped cats spread their numbers across the world.

In 2005, writer Colleen Paige founded National Cat Day to, in her words, "...galvanize the public to recognize the number of cats that need to be rescued each year and also to encourage cat lovers to celebrate the cat(s) in their lives for the unconditional love and companionship they bestow upon us."

This day is observed on October 29 each year. For anyone familiar with the soft nuzzles and comforting purrs of cats, with the delight and sense of honor that comes when cat friends present themselves for stroking in a friendly, trusting manner, with their deep loyalty and sensitivity, National Cat Day is indeed a time to celebrate. Here are some suggestions for reveling and making merry with your cat friends.

ADOPT

Open your home to a cat (or two) from your local animal rescue or shelter. Cats add so much richness to life, so much joy. Life large by welcoming felines into your experience.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at your local shelter or rescue center and offer to play with cats available for adoption to help them become comfortable with people. More socialized cats have higher chances of being adopted. Clean litter trays and cages and help with any other necessary tasks.

DONATE

In addition to money, give blankets, toys, and food to animal rescue organizations and shelters. When animals are comfortable, they can relax. In addition to making their lives better during every moment, you can help raise their chances of being adopted more quickly.

ADD CAT-FRIENDLY DETAILS

Give your home a cat-first atmosphere by installing wall shelves to serve as cat perches and ladders. Cats love to climb and sit high. This is in their genes. Look for ideas online to decorate with your cat friends in mind.

An important part of living with cats is keeping them healthy. Pet Hospitals of Hawaii is your trusted destination for compassionate pet care. Use our online portal to schedule an appointment at any of our three locations.