National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day – Aug. 22, 2026

National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day
Submit your updates or photos
Categories:
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!

Want to sponsor National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day? Learn how

Expected National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day Deals

As National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day approaches, many veterinary clinics and pet supply retailers offer special promotions to encourage preventative care. In 2027, expect local vets to provide discounted wellness exams, vaccine packages, or dental cleanings. Major retailers like Chewy and Petco often run sales on preventative medications, prescription foods, and cat health supplements. Organizations such as the ASPCA and Best Friends Animal Society may highlight low-cost clinics or provide resources for pet owners needing financial assistance for vet visits. Look for deals on cat carriers from brands like Petmate or calming products from Feliway to make the trip less stressful. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as August 22 approaches.

Platform Guide for National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #TakeYourCatToTheVetDay. Share adorable photos of your cat (before or after their vet visit!) and remind others to book their appointments.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #CatHealthAwareness. Post informative graphics about common feline health issues and the benefits of regular vet check-ups.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #VetVisitForCats. Tweet quick tips for reducing vet visit stress or share a link to a local low-cost clinic.

Social Media Tips for National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day

Individuals

Schedule your cat's annual check-up and share a photo of them relaxing at home afterward, perhaps with a new toy or treat, to show that vet visits can be positive.

Creators

Create a short video demonstrating how to acclimate a cat to its carrier, or share your personal story about how regular vet visits helped diagnose an issue early for your pet.

Brands

Pet supply brands can run a 'Healthy Cat Giveaway' featuring preventative care products. Veterinary practices can offer a limited-time discount on check-ups booked on or around the holiday.

Organizations & Brands for National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day

  1. American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)

    Founded in 1863, the AVMA is the leading advocate for veterinary medicine in the United States. It provides resources for pet owners, promotes animal welfare, and supports veterinary professionals in delivering high-quality care.

  2. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)

    Established in 1866 by Henry Bergh, the ASPCA was the first humane society in North America. It works to prevent cruelty to animals, rescue victims of abuse, and advance animal welfare through various programs, including veterinary care.

  3. Chewy

    Launched in 2011, Chewy is a leading online retailer of pet food and products. They offer a vast selection of cat supplies, including prescription diets, medications, and health supplements, often with convenient auto-ship options.

  4. Petco

    Founded in 1965, Petco is a prominent health and wellness company focused on improving the lives of pets and pet parents. They offer a wide range of pet products, services like vet clinics, and advocate for animal welfare.

  5. Purina

    With a history dating back to 1894, Purina is a global leader in pet nutrition. They produce a variety of cat food formulas, including specialized veterinary diets, backed by extensive research in feline health and wellness.

  6. Royal Canin

    Established in France in 1968 by a veterinarian, Royal Canin specializes in health nutrition for cats and dogs. Their diets are formulated to address specific breed, age, and health needs, often recommended by veterinarians.

  7. Best Friends Animal Society

    Founded in 1984, Best Friends Animal Society is a leading national animal welfare organization dedicated to ending the killing of cats and dogs in America's shelters. They operate the nation's largest no-kill sanctuary and promote adoption and spay/neuter programs.

National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day Hero

Henry Bergh

Henry Bergh (1813–1887) was an American diplomat and philanthropist who founded the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) in 1866. His tireless advocacy and pioneering efforts laid the groundwork for animal welfare laws and organizations in the United States, extending protection to all creatures, including domestic cats. Bergh's work highlighted the importance of humane treatment and care for animals, a principle that underpins modern veterinary practices.

National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day timeline

7500 B.C.
Cat domestication got underway

Legend tells us that cats domesticated themselves by abandoning their wild behavior for human companionship.

3200 B.C.
The first veterinarians began practicing

Archaeological evidence indicates that veterinary procedures were performed during the Neolithic period, around the time cats became domesticated.

1762
The first veterinary school founded

Claude Bourgelat gives up his law career and opens a veterinary college in Lyon, France.

1844
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons

The United Kingdom's Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons is established, and exists to this day.

1879
Veterinary education comes to the U.S.

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.

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day

Local veterinary clinics can offer discounted wellness exams or free dental check-ups for cats on National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day. Pet supply stores can create ‘Vet Visit Prep’ bundles with calming sprays, carriers, and treats, bolding brands like Feliway or Petmate. Groomers might offer special ‘post-vet pampering’ packages, while pet-friendly cafes could host educational sessions on feline health with a local vet.

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

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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

  1. They sleep — a lot

    Cats spend between 12 and 16 hours a day sleeping.

  2. Longest cat, ever

    According to the Guinness World Records, the longest domestic cat ever was a Maine Coon that measured 48.5 inches long.

  3. Purring has multiple meanings

    Cats purr when they're content, but also when they're feeling stressed.

  4. 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

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

National Take Your Cat to the Vet Day dates

Year Date Day
2026 August 22 Saturday
2027 August 22 Sunday
2028 August 22 Tuesday
2029 August 22 Wednesday
2030 August 22 Thursday