Cute Ways To Pamper Your Cat On National Cat Day!

National Cat Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a well-earned celebration dedicated to our feline friends who bring charm, comfort, and companionship into our homes. From research showing how cats can help lower stress levels to the way they brighten a room with their gentle purr, there’s no denying that they deserve some serious pampering. This year, consider going beyond the usual treats and toys, and explore new, creative ways to spoil your kitty. Whether that’s surprising them with a custom-made cat bed, indulging them in an at-home grooming session, or providing interactive puzzle feeders to keep their minds sharp, taking extra steps to show your appreciation can deepen your bond. National Cat Day should be a moment of gratitude—an opportunity to recognize the unconditional love your cat provides and return that affection with thoughtful gestures that convey just how important they truly are, especially today.

National Cat Day is coming up on October 29^th. We’re always happy to celebrate our feline friends and their adorable and charming antics. If you can’t wait until October, you might also enjoy celebrating Are You Kitten Me? It’s National Kitten Day! Fluffy is a wonderful companion: she’s cute, clean, cuddly, and lots of fun. Read on as a Sandstone, MN vet lists a few things you can do to get that motor going in this article.

Smart Toys

Technology has advanced in leaps and bounds over the past few years. Fido and Fluffy are also benefiting from these advances. Get your kitty a smart toy, such as a robotic mouse, or download games for her to play on your table.

Catnip

Our feline buddies have a very curious relationship with this member of the mint family. In fact, cats’ noses have scent receptors that just happen to fit catnip molecules perfectly. An old-fashioned catnip toy is fine, but you can also give Fluffy her favorite herb as a treat or even in bubbles.

New Beds

National Cat Day shines a spotlight on the fascinating sleep habits of our feline friends, who can snooze up to 20 hours a day. Unlike their wild counterparts, who expend large amounts of energy quickly during hunts, domesticated cats have less demanding schedules, allowing them more downtime to recover and relax. Interestingly, other predators typically require only 12 to 14 hours of sleep. Regardless of their reasons, cats certainly value comfort, so consider spoiling your pet with a new bed—or perhaps several—to celebrate National Cat Day.

Box Castle

Fortunately for us, kitties aren’t hard to please. Even giving Fluffy a new box to explore and look adorable in can really brighten up her day. If you have kids, have them make a box castle. This can make for adorable pictures! 

Playtime

It’s always really cute watching cats jumping and pouncing on their favorite toys. Take a few minutes to hold a feather toy, laser pointer, or remote control for a mechanical mouse. This will benefit your furry little buddy both mentally and physically.

Veterinary Appointment

On National Cat Day, it’s safe to say that our feline friends would rather play with a new toy or lounge by a window than stop by the vet, but consistent veterinary visits support Fluffy’s long-term well-being. If your cat is overdue, or hasn’t been spayed, neutered, or microchipped, make an appointment today. When you’re away, consider our Pet Boarding and Grooming services to keep your cat relaxed and cared for.

National Cat Day 2025: A Priority for Cat Lovers

How long ago were cats domesticated?

Archaeological findings suggest that domestic cats emerged about 9,500 years ago in regions like the Near East, drawn by rodent populations thriving near human settlements. As people stored grain and established more permanent communities, these early felines found easy meals and favorable conditions for living alongside humans. Over millennia, this mutually beneficial relationship strengthened, leading to the smaller, socialized cats familiar today. Their domestication differs from that of many other animals, as it was driven more by subtle mutual adaptation than by deliberate human intervention or selective breeding. This long association has shaped feline behavior and temperament.

Are cats lactose intolerant?

Many adult cats struggle to break down lactose, the sugar found in dairy products. After weaning, their digestive systems produce less lactase, the enzyme required to digest lactose, often resulting in gastrointestinal distress if dairy products are consumed. Signs of intolerance can include diarrhea, gas, bloating, or general discomfort. Although some cats may tolerate small amounts of certain dairy products without immediate symptoms, it remains safer to provide feline-friendly treats designed for their nutritional needs. Offering plenty of fresh water and balanced cat food supports overall digestive health without unnecessary risk.

What percentage of genetics do house cats share with tigers?

Domestic house cats and tigers, both members of the Felidae family, share an astonishing amount of their genetic material. Studies have shown that domestic cats share approximately 95.6% of their DNA with tigers. Despite obvious differences in size, behavior, and habitat, their genetic closeness becomes clear through sequencing projects and comparative genomics. This genetic overlap explains why certain behaviors, such as stalking prey or marking territory, appear in both domestic and wild feline species. The remarkable similarity highlights deep evolutionary ties that remain even after thousands of years of domestication.

Who created National Cat Day and why?

National Cat Day was founded in 2005 by Colleen Paige, an animal welfare advocate dedicated to improving cats’ well-being. She introduced it to raise awareness about the vast number of felines lingering in shelters and to encourage families to adopt instead of shopping for new pets. Her goal was to inspire people to appreciate their companions more deeply, promote responsible pet ownership, and foster humane treatment. Over time, this special day has influenced countless individuals to provide safer environments for their cats and to support shelters reducing feline homelessness.

What supplies can be donated to shelters?

Shelters can benefit from various donations to enhance the lives of cats awaiting adoption. Smart toys and traditional catnip-filled playthings provide entertainment and comfort. Soft, new beds support the natural feline behavior of extended sleeping, aiding in stress reduction. Cardboard boxes not only offer an inexpensive enrichment option but also serve as cozy retreats for cats. Additionally, essential supplies like laser pointers and interactive toys promote active play and mental engagement, crucial for maintaining the well-being of sheltered cats.

Do you have questions about your kitty’s health or care? Contact us, your local Sandstone, MN animal clinic, anytime!