- Categories:
- Animal
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- CatPetPet Health
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every February
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National Cat Health Month dedicates every February to the well-being of our feline companions. This month encourages cat parents to focus on their pets’ physical and emotional health, educating themselves on preventative care and signs of illness. Take this opportunity to schedule vet check-ups, review nutrition, and ensure your cat’s environment supports a happy, healthy life.
Want to sponsor National Cat Health Month? Learn how
Expected National Cat Health Month Deals
During National Cat Health Month, expect a focus on preventative care and education rather than widespread commercial deals. Many veterinary clinics, such as those associated with the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP), often offer discounted wellness exams, dental cleanings, or vaccine packages. Pet supply retailers like Chewy and Petco may feature promotions on premium cat food, supplements, and interactive toys that promote physical and mental health. Brands like Royal Canin and Hill’s Pet Nutrition frequently run educational campaigns and special offers on their specialized diets. Local shelters and rescue organizations may host adoption events with reduced fees or offer free microchipping services. We will update this page with confirmed live deals and educational resources as February approaches.
Platform Guide for National Cat Health Month
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #CatHealthMonth. Share photos and videos of your cats enjoying healthy activities, or post tips for feline care.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalCatHealthMonth. Join discussions in cat parent groups about common health issues and vet recommendations.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #CatHealthTips. Create short, engaging videos demonstrating how to check your cat’s teeth or administer medication.
National Cat Health Month Hero
Dr. Louis J. Camuti
History of National Cat Health Month
Our love for cats goes back a long way. The Ancient Egyptians were digging cats way before it was cool to post a selfie with a grumpy one on Instagram. In those days cats were used for social and religious practices and kept as pets. They even protected the Pharaoh and were praised for killing venomous snakes. Cats were so honored that they were mummified when buried, and Egyptian gods featured heads of cats.
It’s thought that around 3000 years ago farm cats were brought to Europe by Greek traders and they were highly valued for pest control. When the Romans reached Britain, they brought cats, and when Vikings invaded and left Britain, they then took cats with them. Cats were going global.
They’ve not always been valued though. Black cats were associated with witchcraft during the Middle Ages, and their reputation suffered some temporary damage around the time of the Black Death when people wrongly thought they may have something to do with the deadly plague. By the 1600s cats’ reputation had been restored and they were welcome passengers aboard ships to keep the rats away.
Cats still flourish today in America. By 1993 they outnumbered dogs as the most popular house pets in the nation. They’ve been on a long journey over the years, and so the least we can do is spend each February checking up on their health, they’re among our best friends after all.
National Cat Health Month timeline
For the first time, cats outnumber dogs as housepets in the United States.
Cats had already made their way to Europe by the 1300s and were popular housepets. However, their reputation was severely damaged as rulers at the time thought they were responsible for the Black Death and ordered them to be killed. It wasn’t until around 1600 that they became popular again.
In the Near East, cats were likely first domesticated around 7500 BC.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Cat Health Month
Local businesses can support National Cat Health Month by partnering with veterinary clinics to offer special discounts on cat-related services or products. Pet supply stores can host educational workshops on feline nutrition, grooming, or behavioral health, perhaps featuring local vets as speakers. Groomers might offer ‘Spa Day’ packages for cats, emphasizing preventative care like nail trims and ear cleaning. Even non-pet businesses can participate by setting up donation boxes for local cat shelters, collecting food, toys, or medical supplies, and promoting responsible pet ownership to their customers.
National Cat Health Month FAQs
When is National Cat Health Month?
In 2027, National Cat Health Month will again be observed throughout February, encouraging cat parents to focus on preventative care and education. This annual observance serves as a vital reminder for all cat owners.
How many cats are there in the U.S.?
The American Pet Products Association (APPA) reported that roughly 46.5 million U.S. households own at least one cat, with many owning multiple. This makes cats one of the most popular pets, emphasizing the need for dedicated health initiatives.
What are common health issues for cats?
Feline health concerns frequently seen by veterinarians range from parasitic infections like fleas and worms to more serious conditions such as diabetes and certain cancers. Preventative measures, including vaccinations and proper diet, play a key role in mitigating risks.
How often should a cat visit the vet?
For optimal health, the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) recommends annual veterinary visits for most cats. These visits are vital for preventative care, early disease detection, and maintaining a strong relationship with your feline’s healthcare provider.
National Cat Health Month Activities
Take your kitty in for a check-up
How long has it been since Muffin has been to the vet? Sometimes, life gets busy and those checkups get pushed back. Use National Cat Health Month as the reason to prioritize your cat’s health - you have a whole month to get it done, and Muffins will certainly thank you.
Spread the word on social media
What better excuse to blanket social media with #NationalCatHealthMonth than posting a picture of your kitty? You were going to do it anyway, so use this opportunity to spread the word on National Cat Health Month to other cat owners.
Get your cat a new toy
A good pet owner knows that emotional health can be just as important as physical health for your kitty. Investing in a new toy can improve your cat’s mood, give them a bit of exercise, and even strengthen your bond. Cats deserve a little relaxation, too!
5 Cat Facts That Will Blow Your Mind
Some Greens are Toxic
Keep lilies, azaleas, mistletoe, holly, and more out of the house - they are all toxic to cats.
Could Your Cat be Lactose-Intolerant?
Surprisingly, milk isn’t always great for cats. If your cat is lactose-intolerant, they’ll get awful diarrhea from milk. They’ll also have a greater chance of obesity if they continue to be given milk.
Make Sure She’s Happy
Cats can, in fact, become depressed. Watch out for changes in vocalization, appetite, or any other abnormal behavior.
Cats Often Hide Illnesses
These tricky pets often hide when sick or injured - it’s a natural survival instinct. If you notice odd behavior or hiding, take your cat into the vet.
Dangerous Declawing
Declawing your cat is cruel and viewed as dangerous to their health and safety. Luckily, there are many other ways to get your cat to stop scratching - look around online or ask your vet.
Why We Love National Cat Health Month
Cats are the easiest pets
Cats rank as the top five easiest pets to care for. Besides a litter box, food, water, and love, they don’t need much else. Humans have loved cats throughout history for their strong sense of independence and ability to form bonds with us.
It helps us improve as cat owners
We could always use the extra push to give our cat a little more attention to help them live their best life. We love our furry friends, but if you’re not a veterinarian, this month is a helpful reminder to give our kitties regular checkups and be on the lookout for any signs that something is up!
It’s an excuse to don cat merchandise
Every cat owner has at least one cat sticker, hat, t-shirt, or pair of socks - and this is the time to wear your love for cats on your sleeve. What better time to celebrate our feline friends and raise awareness for their health than National Cat Health Month? We say, wear those cat-print shorts with pride.
National Cat Health Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2027 | February 1 | Monday |
| 2028 | February 1 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | February 1 | Thursday |
| 2030 | February 1 | Friday |
| 2031 | February 1 | Saturday |
Social Media Tips for National Cat Health Month
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