National Cat Lovers’ Month: Delve in Whiskersmania
With the advent of December, comes a list of several events that call for celebrations. From Hanukkah to Kwanzaa to Christmas, there are so many holidays we recognize this month, but were you aware of the fact that December is also considered National Cat Lovers Month? It’s a month dedicated to honoring the beauty, smartness, and sassiness of our adorable feline companions.
Let’s Talk Cats
It was approximately 9,500 years ago when cats came into our homes and our lives as our furry mates. Today, they are one of the most popular pets and are specifically loved due to their quiet, independent nature, their adorable companionship, and the fact that they usually require less maintenance as compared to other pets. Did you know that cats are capable of sensing when you feel low and require comfort, these little creatures are proven to reduce anxiety and stress levels.
So let’s use this 31-day feline fiesta to celebrate the unique bond between humans and their sleek little furballs. Whether you are a seasoned cat lover or contemplating adopting a whiskered friend, National Cat Lovers’ Month offers a perfect opportunity to revel in the joy and companionship that these delightful creatures bring into our lives. Read on to learn how it all started and what you can do this National Cat Lovers’ Month to create some extra precious moments with your furry friend.
National Cat Lovers’ Month: The Origin
The story of how the concept of National Cat Lovers Month came into the picture can be traced back to a collective desire to honor the cats that share our homes and hearts.
The idea of dedicating a whole month to feline adoration gained momentum in the early 21st century. Cat lovers across social media platforms, forums, and blogs began advocating for a designated period to celebrate the unique qualities of these enigmatic creatures. Eventually, this groundswell of support led to the establishment of National Cat Lovers Month.
The celebration aims to raise awareness about the importance of responsible pet parenting, encourage adoption from shelters, and foster a sense of community among cat lovers. It’s also an opportunity to showcase the myriad ways in which cats contribute to our lives, from providing emotional support to acting as skilled rodent hunters.
Interesting Facts About Our Whiskered Friends
- Ancient Companions: Cats have been living alongside humans for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians revered cats, associating them with the goddess Bastet. Killing a cat, even accidentally, was punishable by death.
- Superior Senses: Cats have exceptional senses, including night vision which is six times better than that of humans. Their whiskers are highly sensitive, helping them navigate and detect changes in their surroundings.
- Purring for Healing: The sound of a cat’s purr has therapeutic benefits. It has been linked to lower stress levels, reduced blood pressure, and faster healing of bones and tissues.
- Wide Range of Vocalizations: While dogs may have earned a reputation for being more vocal, cats are no slouches in the communication department. They can make over 100 different sounds, including meows, purrs, chirps, and even trills.
- Acrobatic Athletes: Cats are remarkable jumpers and can leap up to six times their body length in a single bound. Their incredible agility and balance make them natural hunters and adept climbers.
Fun Activities to Celebrate This Cat Lovers’ Month
It’s the purr-fect time to shower that extra attention and love on your feline companion. Take a look at some of the fun activities you can indulge in to make this month truly special for your whiskered companions.
#Warm, Cozy Corner
We know our furballs spend a significant part of their day in their resting area. What better way to show them your love than by setting up a warm, comfortable, and cozy corner with a soft, maybe hooded bed, warm blanket, and catnip-infused toys?
#Yummy Treats
Treats always go to that extra length to scream love and care. You can opt for those extra delicious treats that make your cat purr in delight, or even make homemade treats for them. Show your love by choosing from a myriad of recipes available online.
#Playtime to Bond
You can engage in interactive play sessions with your cat using feather wands, laser pointers, or puzzle toys. This not only provides physical exercise but also stimulates their mental faculties. Plus, we can’t forget the fact that it is an efficient way of further strengthening your bond with your feline bud.
#Up For a Grooming Session
Yes, we know that cats are self-groomers, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t need attention. Brush your cat thoroughly as it will assist in keeping their fur in top condition and to add to it, offers a bonding experience too. Take a gentle brush and enjoy some quality grooming time with your whiskered ball this December.
Apart from these, you can also think of a lot of other options like creating a comfy window perch with a cushion, having cat TV time, or creating a DIY cat playhouse by cutting holes in a cardboard box.
Tips for Cat Lovers: How to Take Care
Next, we have assembled a few tips that might come in handy to ensure that your feline friend leads a healthy and happy life.
- According to your cat’s age, weight, and health condition; offer a balanced and nutritious diet.
- Schedule regular vet visits for an all-around check-up to monitor your cat’s health and to ensure that any potential health issue is addressed early on. Please pay attention to their vaccinations, dental care, and preventive measures.
- Adequate hydration is another crucial aspect. Always ensure that your cat has access to clean, fresh drinking water at all times.
- Keep your cat mentally stimulated by providing toys, scratching posts, and climbing structures. Cats are natural hunters, so interactive play and puzzle toys can help satisfy their instincts.
- Maintain a clean litter box by scooping it daily and changing the litter regularly.
- Ensure your cat wears a collar with an ID tag containing your contact information. Additionally, consider microchipping your cat for added security in case they get lost.
FAQs for Cat Lovers’ Month
As National Cat Lovers’ Month unfolds, it’s natural for cat enthusiasts to have questions about their feline friend. We are here with answers to some of the most common ones.
1. Why do cats knead?
Cats knead with their paws as a comforting behavior learned during kittenhood. They associate it with the soothing feeling of nursing from their mother
2. Do all cats hate water?
While many cats are not fond of water, there are exceptions. Some cats are comfortable with water, and individual preferences vary.
3. What should I do if my cat is overweight?
Consult with your veterinarian to create a tailored weight management plan. This may include adjusting their diet, increasing exercise, and monitoring their overall health.
4. Why does my cat bring me “gifts” (like birds or mice)?
Cats are natural hunters, and presenting “gifts” is instinctual. They view you as part of their family and maybe share their catch as a display of trust.
5. How can I introduce a new cat to my household?
Gradual introductions, providing separate spaces initially. Using positive reinforcement can help ease the transition when introducing a new cat to your home.
