During National Adopt a Cat Month, every June, hundreds of felines find a forever home, thanks to the constant campaigning done by numerous cat lovers across the U.S. Since June is considered kitten season, a lot of cats end up homeless when their owners are unable to find them a home. Seeing this influx in cats brought to the shelters, many campaigns for cat adoption started in June. Why should you adopt a cat? Because they are harmless and loving creatures who are easy to keep as pets and provide some of the best cuddles at night!
History of National Adopt A Cat Month
The National Adopt a Cat Month was formed by American Humane 45 years ago in order to encourage people to stop buying cats and, instead, adopt them from shelters. The month selected for the adoption drive was June, since a lot of cats tend to reproduce during this month — and, since a cat can birth up to seven kittens, it’s not a surprise that most of them often end up in animal shelters. Seeing how shelter cats are deprived of a loving environment, American Humane kickstarted this adoption month in the hopes of spreading awareness regarding the rescuing and adoption of cats.American Humane is an organization that has existed for over 100 years. In fact, they were the first to rescue 68,000 wounded horses in Europe when wars were common. They also stepped up to help animals during 9/11, Hurricane Sandy, and Hurricane Dorian. The motive of the organization is also to strengthen the bond between humans and animals since these innocent creatures are barely able to express themselves.
National Adopt A Cat Month timeline
Cats are considered sacred in Egypt
The Prince of Wales, Hywel Dda, formulates laws to protect cats.
Cats are murdered across Europe due to superstitions.
Cats are used on cargo ships to hunt vermin.
National Adopt A Cat Month FAQs
Can you adopt a one-month-old kitten?
The correct age to take a kitten away from its mother is eight weeks. Kittens younger than that often fall sick due to lack of nutrition.
What should I know before adopting a kitten?
Adopting a cat is not a hobby but, in fact, a lifelong commitment. So be prepared to invest your time and money in a cat before you adopt one.
Is having a house cat cruel?
No. Many cats live their life indoors and are happy with the safe and sheltered lifestyle.
How to Celebrate National Adopt A Cat Month
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Adopt a cat
If you are a cat lover and have been thinking of bringing a new furry friend into your home, now is the best time. Head to the nearest shelter and provide a home to an innocent kitty.
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Champion the cause
Promote National Adopt a Cat Month by posting about it on social media and spreading awareness regarding the cause. Also, talk about how easy it is to raise a cat so people realize they can do it too.
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Donate to an animal shelter
If you can’t adopt a cat, donate to a shelter so the cats living there have a better chance of leading a comfortable life. Even the smallest of donations can help.
5 Fun Facts About Cats
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Sleeping beauties
Cats sleep 70% of the day.
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Meows for humans
Meowing is a language cats developed to talk to humans.
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The oldest cat
The oldest cat, Creme Puff, died when she was 38 years old.
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More bones than humans
Cats have 230 bones, while humans have 206.
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Reach for the sky
Felines can jump six times their length.
Why National Adopt A Cat Month is Important
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It helps cats find homes
The month helps in providing homes to hundreds of cats across the U.S. by promoting the cause and bringing the plight of shelter cats to the forefront. Without this dedicated month, who knows how many cats would still be suffering.
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It creates awareness regarding adoption
The month brings attention to the number of cats that are stuck in shelters with the aim to convince people to adopt pets instead of purchasing them.
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It promotes love for animals
A lot of videos and photos of kittens and cats are spread across social media during National Adopt A Cat Month, bringing to light the plight of our furry friends. The message of the month is also to take care of cats and not simply dump them in shelters.
National Adopt A Cat Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | June 1 | Thursday |
| 2024 | June 1 | Saturday |
| 2025 | June 1 | Sunday |
| 2026 | June 1 | Monday |
| 2027 | June 1 | Tuesday |
