Happy Cat Month

History of Happy Cat Month

Happy Cat Month is a special awareness holiday that celebrates one of the most lovable pets known to man — yes, cats. These majestic yet simple creatures have lived alongside humans for almost as long as dogs, and have served purposes just as important. From being our cuddly friends to being on patrol, they have been a wonderful addition to our lives.

This unique idea of celebrating Happy Cat Month was started by the CATalyst Council to help spread education and awareness about the health, welfare, and importance of our furry friends. The CATalyst Council was formed after the meeting of two separate efforts, Re-Branding Felix and the CATalyst Summit. This non-profit entity was formed with the main focus on veterinary medicine and shelter in addition to animal welfare. Since the formation of the CATalyst Council, they have been working to advance the image of cats as caring and affectionate and needing human care as much as any other pet.

Having said all this, there is a misconception that cats are incredibly self-reliant, and just don’t need the kind of super clingy cuddling you find with dogs. The fact is that cats are incredibly social animals and they require the same level of care and attention that we lavish on our dogs. So, on this Happy Cat Month, whether you have a pet kitty or a bigger cat of a different kind, make sure you have a purr-fectly happy cat.

Happy Cat Month timeline

7500 B.C.

The Domestication of Cats

Cats are domesticated by the ancient Egyptians.

1600s A.D.

The Change of View

The public image of cats begins to change in the west after being associated with witchcraft.

1990s

Cats Become a Hit

Cat services and products become a billion-dollar industry.

2020s

Cats Become Family

People across the world begin to see cats as a member of their families.

Happy Cat Month FAQs

When is Happy Cat Month?

Happy Cat Month 2026 runs throughout September, from Tuesday, September 1, to Wednesday, September 30. It’s a full month dedicated to celebrating and improving the lives of our feline companions.

How many cats are there in U.S. households?

According to recent estimates, there are approximately 45.3 million households in the United States that own at least one cat, totaling around 90 million pet cats. This makes cats one of the most popular companion animals.

What is the CATalyst Council?

The CATalyst Council is a non-profit organization established to promote the health and welfare of companion cats. They are the driving force behind Happy Cat Month, aiming to educate owners and improve veterinary care for felines.

What are common signs of a happy cat?

A happy cat often displays relaxed body language, including a relaxed tail, soft eyes, and purring. They may also knead, rub against you, have a healthy appetite, and engage in playful behavior.

Happy Cat Month Activities

Spread the word

The best thing you can do to celebrate Happy Cat Month is by spreading awareness and educating others about the health and welfare of cats. Talk to your friends and family and let them know.

Visit the vet

Take your cat to the vet for a check-up and make sure your cat’s vaccinations are up to date. While visiting, don’t forget to ask your vet about preventative medications for fleas, ticks, mites, or heartworm.

Spend time with your cat

Although it might not seem like it, cats are social animals and they crave and love human attention, and can’t seem to get enough time with humans. So, try to spend time with your kitty and have fun with them.

5 Unknown Facts About Cats That You’ll Be Surprised To Know

Cats can’t taste sweetness

The only mammal that can’t taste sweetness is a cat.

Cats are better than us

A cat’s peripheral and night visions are much better than that of humans.

They can jump very far

Did you know that cats can jump up to six times their lengths?

Cats have a special organ

Cats can taste scents in the air because of an extra organ.

They have whiskers on other areas too

Cats have whiskers behind their front legs.

Why We Love Happy Cat Month

We need this day!

Happy Cat Month is a much-needed time to emphasize the safety and happiness of cats as much as our own. Every cat deserves a human companion and this day is all about that.

Healthy is happy

We can all agree upon one thing — a healthy cat is a happy cat. By celebrating Happy Cat Month, we are potentially encouraging other cat parents to take care of their cats.

It encourages you to spend time with your cat

Did you know that you can teach your cat to shake, sit on command, jump off stools and even jump through hoops? Spend more time with your cat and be amazed!