Sep 01, 2024 | By, For Pet's Sake

September is Happy Cat Month! 8 ways to celebrate our favorite felines

A healthy cat is a happy cat, and as a responsible cat owner, being aware of your cat’s health and environment is just one of the many ways to keep them meowing and on the move!

Created by the CATalyst Council, a nonprofit dedicated to the welfare of cats everywhere, this September pet holiday focuses on meeting the physical and mental needs of cats around the world. Don’t let their aloofness and intelligence fool you; despite the myths, cats need regular care just as much as dogs, and sometimes their owners may unknowingly neglect important aspects of their well-being.

Whether your cat loves lazily lying inside or daringly roams the outdoors, here are 8 purr-fect ways to celebrate Happy Cat Month all month long!

  1. Visit the vet regularly: First and foremost, Happy Cat Month prioritizes your cat’s health. Taking your cat to the vet at least twice a year is important for checking for common illnesses like fleas, UTIs, and rabies. Get to know your cat’s breed traits and characteristics, and visit the vet if you notice any unusual symptoms or behaviors.
  2. Gift your cat some new toys: Cat owners know how destructive cats can get when left to their own devices, so providing plenty of toys for scratching, clawing, and chasing will keep them active, help burn calories, and mentally stimulated enough to (hopefully) sleep through the night without disruptions.
  3. Treat your cat to some tasty snacks: Switch up the usual kibble and serve your cat special snacks like tuna, sardines, or their all-time favorite indulgent, catnip! While these treats are feline favorites, make sure your cat is eating the recommended amount to prevent obesity and other related illnesses.
  4. Keep your cat’s nails trimmed: Cats love to claw and scratch, which usually keeps their nails at a healthy length; however, some cats may need more frequent trimmings, especially indoor cats. If you notice your cat’s nails getting too long, a trim every 2–4 weeks should keep them comfortable.
  5. Spread awareness: From the dangers of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) to toxoplasmosis, cat owners should be informed about common feline diseases and educate other pet owners. Understanding how certain diseases, germs, and bacteria spread can help keep all of the pets in our community safe.
  6. Donate: Even if you’re not a cat owner, organizations and nonprofits that support cats always appreciate donations. Contributions can include cat supplies, food, or financial support that benefits cat health and research.
  7. Volunteer: Like dogs, cats also need socialization, clean cages, and fostering to prepare them for their future homes. Check out your local animal shelter and spend a Saturday or two cuddling, cleaning, and helping the cats in your area.
  8. Adopt: Shelters across the nation are overcrowded with dogs, cats, and other animals in need. By adopting a cat, you are freeing up space and resources in shelters and decreasing the euthanasia rate. Remember, adopting, not shopping, helps cats in your community find forever homes more quickly!

Have a question about pet health? Want to become the best possible pet parent? Find helpful tips, reminders, and insight to giving your furry friend the best possible care with For Pet’s Sake! Learn more at drdevonsmith.com.