- Categories:
- Animal
- Tags:
- Cat
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every August 22
- Holiday emoji:
- 🐱🩺
National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day arrives every August 22, urging all cat parents to schedule essential check-ups for their beloved felines. Proactive veterinary care is crucial for detecting health issues early and ensuring a long, happy life for your furry companion. Make an appointment, learn about feline health, and spread awareness among fellow cat lovers!
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National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day timeline
Legend tells us that cats domesticated themselves by abandoning their wild behavior for human companionship.
Archaeological evidence indicates that veterinary procedures were performed during the Neolithic period, around the time cats became domesticated.
Claude Bourgelat gives up his law career and opens a veterinary college in Lyon, France.
The United Kingdom's Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons is established, and exists to this day.
The Iowa Agricultural College (now Iowa State University) becomes the first land-grant institution of higher learning in the United States to establish a veterinary school.
National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day FAQs
When is National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day?
National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day 2026 falls on Saturday, August 22. This annual observance is a crucial reminder for cat owners to prioritize their feline companions’ health by scheduling a veterinary check-up.
How often should I take my cat to the vet?
For most adult cats, an annual veterinary check-up is recommended to monitor their overall health, administer necessary vaccinations, and address any emerging concerns. Kittens and senior cats may require more frequent visits.
How many cats are there in the United States?
According to recent estimates, there are approximately 58 million pet cats in the United States, making them one of the most popular companion animals. Many households own multiple cats, highlighting their widespread appeal.
What are common signs that my cat needs to see a vet?
Watch for changes in appetite or water intake, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty urinating, unusual vocalizations, or sudden behavioral shifts like hiding. These can all be indicators of underlying health issues.
National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day Activities
Spay or neuter your kitty
These procedures not only keep the feline population in check but they also help ensure your kitty's life will be a long and healthy one. Cats that are spayed or neutered are less likely to wander away from home. Furthermore, spaying your cat means she's less likely to develop uterine infections or breast tumors. And neutering your tom protects him from testicular cancer and prostate problems.
Implant a microchip
This simple procedure provides cat owners with a little peace of mind. Microchips are mini-transponders, typically the size of a grain of rice. Your vet implants one in your kitty's skin, usually near the shoulder blades. No anesthesia is required, and the implant should last the rest of your cat's life.
Keep regular vet appointments
You know when your pet needs a trip to the vet. But sometimes it's easy to forget such an important task. That's why you should make regular vet appointments for your cat. You'll feel better, and your cat will get the care it deserves.
5 Purrfectly Incredible Facts About Cats
They sleep — a lot
Cats spend between 12 and 16 hours a day sleeping.
Longest cat, ever
According to the Guinness World Records, the longest domestic cat ever was a Maine Coon that measured 48.5 inches long.
Purring has multiple meanings
Cats purr when they're content, but also when they're feeling stressed.
There's no place like home
In 2013, a cat found its way home to Florida, traveling 200 miles after being lost for two months.
Why We Love National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day
They make us happy — we keep them healthy
Cats are one of the world's most popular pets — and have been for many thousands of years. We take them to the vet once a year (at least) to make sure they're healthy.
Cats have 1 life (not 9)
Kitty's acrobatics, ability to escape, and the old saying that they have nine lives may make our feline companions seem invincible. But they're not. They need us — and the vet — to take care of them.
Doc knows best
Our veterinarians can keep us informed about what treatments and shots our cats need. Plus, vets keep us up-to-date on medical alerts and recalled foods that may affects our cats.
