National Cat Lady Day takes place on April 19, but if you own a cat, you know that there isn’t a day that goes by that you don’t celebrate your animal companion! So, embrace your kitties and give your cat some catnip! That critter brings you joy, but that’s not all. Pets not only steal our hearts, but they also help to improve general cardiovascular health by lowering cortisol, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels. Let’s read more. If you want to celebrate in style, check out our guide to gifts for cat lovers.
History of National Cat Lady Day
April 19 is National Cat Lady Day. A cat lady’s reputation has gone a long way since medieval Europe when a woman’s love of cats was met with suspicion and even disdain. Since then, the cat woman stereotype has evolved from a negative to a popular one that many modern cat ladies proudly wear.
Cats are carnivorous little hairy creatures with four legs, a tail, and claws that people have domesticated as pets from ancient times, even though they are descended from the African Wildcat and used to catch vermin.
The first historical human record of cats was discovered in the civilization of the Ancient Egyptian Civilization. We all seem to associate cats with Egyptians because of their adoration and worship of cats as gods. During the First Dynasty, Mafdet was the first known cat deity, and he was regarded as the guardian against snakes, scorpions, and evil, therefore cats were not only deities but also protectors.
A cat lady is a cultural archetype or stock figure who is typically depicted as a woman, a middle-aged or old spinster, or widow with a large number of cats. The phrase may be derogatory or it may be welcomed fondly.
Depending on the context, the normally derogatory adjective ‘crazy’ may be prefixed to ‘cat lady’ to signify either a derogatory or a hilarious and endearing label. Some writers, celebrities, and artists have embraced the term “crazy cat lady” to denote an animal lover or rescuer who cares for one or more cats and is psychologically sound.
A 2019 study revealed no differences in anxiety, depression, or relationship experiences between cat owners and non-cat owners: “We suggest that our findings are thus not consistent with a characterization of cat owners as unhappy, anxious, or having problems with human relationships.
However, a separate 1983 study discovered that pet owners scored higher than nonowners on social sensitivity and interpersonal trust, however, there was no appreciable difference between dog and cat owners.
National Cat Lady Day timeline
The earliest domesticated cats arrive in Europe thanks to Phoenician traders.
The odd and tenacious cliche of the “crazy cat lady” begins with an article about ladies who show great fondness for their cats.
The hugely successful musical "Cats" premieres on Broadway, furthering pop culture's fondness for felines.
After 10 years of diving into boxing, the Japanese kitty Maru is certified as the most viewed animal on YouTube.
National Cat Lady Day FAQs
Do cats enjoy being cuddled?
Most cats are extremely affectionate, and they enjoy nuzzling and giving embraces while purring loudly and soothingly. Some cats, however, are less comfortable with too much affection, so always do what your cat is comfortable with, or risk a warning hiss or worse.
How many cats make you a cat lady?
A crazy cat lady could be someone who is otherwise normal yet has four or more cats.
Is six too much?
Having more than six to eight cats normally seems excessive, unless you are a breeder. The greater the number of cats, the less individual care each cat receives. The human-cat interaction evolves, becoming less intimate.
National Cat Lady Day Activities
Go to a cat shelter
You won't be sorry, and the cats at the shelter will appreciate your company. Consider contacting your local shelter or an animal rescue to see how you can assist.
Make bubbles with your cat
Who does not enjoy blowing bubbles? Spend quality time with your furry pal scrambling around trying to pop them.
Do yoga
Cats are notoriously fond of stretching, they’re great at it too. Just avoid the downward-facing dog pose and it’ll be fine.
5 Facts About Cats That Will Blow Your Mind
Extreme mourning
When a family cat died, the Egyptians shaved their brows; when a dog died, they shaved the rest of their bodies.
For the love of cats
The Egyptian army surrendered to the Persians in 525 B.C., refusing to offend their goddess by fighting because the Persians had painted the image of the Egyptian cat goddess, Bastet, on their shields.
Saltwater filter
Cat kidneys can filter salt from the water and use the desalinated water to hydrate themselves.
By popular demand
In North America, the most popular pets are cats.
Their sacred status
Cats were so beloved by the ancient Egyptians that they were frequently worshiped in life and mummified in death, and were even adorned with inexpensive jewels.
Why We Love National Cat Lady Day
Cats are entertaining
Cats are intriguing creatures. From epic expressions to kooky antics, it’s never a dull time with a cat around.
They improve mental health
Cats have been clinically demonstrated to promote mental health as stress relievers simply by being themselves! Petting a fluffy kitten can induce our body to produce stress-relieving chemicals.
We love all life
Holidays like today demonstrate that as humans, we appreciate all living things. There are more of us who respect and adore cats than those who do not.
National Cat Lady Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | April 19 | Friday |
| 2025 | April 19 | Saturday |
| 2026 | April 19 | Sunday |
| 2027 | April 19 | Monday |
| 2028 | April 19 | Wednesday |
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