Holiday Calendar
855 saved#18 of 6,224

National Cat Lovers’ Month

Month-long cultural observance held December 1 to 31 celebrating the bond between cats and their owners and encouraging shelter cat adoption and responsible pet ownership.

Tuesday
1–31
December 2026
Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team
Have an update or spot an error?
YEARLY DATEAll of December
OBSERVED INUnited States
CATEGORYAnimals
SUBCATEGORYCats
ORIGIN

Community Origin

FOUNDING ENTITY
Not documented
FIRST OBSERVED
mid-1990s
HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

No verified creator. The observance gained recognition organically among cat enthusiasts and animal welfare organizations in the mid-1990s to celebrate the cat-owner bond and promote shelter adoption.

+ Know the story? Submit a founder Help us complete this holiday
INTRO

Introduction

It's time to show your furry feline friends some extra love in December with National Cat Lovers’ Month! This special month has been celebrated since the mid-1990s to recognize both cats and cat lovers all over the world. Cats have been part of human history for thousands of years, providing comfort, companionship, and entertainment. So why not take a moment on Dec. 1 to give your cat a special treat or some extra cuddles? Let's make this month one to remember for cats everywhere!

Advertisement

TIMELINE

National Cat Lovers’ Month Timeline

First Domesticated Cats

Archaeological evidence shows that the first domesticated cats lived with humans in Cyprus around 9500 B.C.

Egyptian Cat Worshipping

Ancient Egyptians worshipped cats and even considered them as sacred animals around 2000 B.C.

First Cat Show

The world's first organized cat show took place at the Crystal Palace in London in 1871.

First US Cat Show

The United States hosted its first official cat show at Madison Square Garden in New York City in 1895.

Start of Feline Health Studies

Cornell University established the first veterinary college specializing in feline health studies in 1954.

Establishing Global Cat Day

Alley Cat Allies, a leading global advocacy organization, celebrated its 15th anniversary by declaring October 16 as Global Cat Day in 2005.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

How to Celebrate National Cat Lovers’ Month

Read a book about cats

Take some time this month to read a book about cats. Whether it's a children's book about a cute cat who goes on an adventure or a memoir written by a cat, there are plenty of books to choose from.

Organize a cat meet-up

Bring together your fellow cat lovers at your local park or cafe to celebrate National Cat Lovers' Month. You can bring treats, toys, and stories to share with one another.

Volunteer at your local shelter

Find a local animal shelter in your area and volunteer your time to help cats find their forever homes. This is an especially great way to give back and celebrate cats during this special month.

Make cat treats

Show your cats some extra love this month by whipping up a batch of homemade cat treats. There are plenty of recipes online that are easy and healthy for your kitty.

Visit a cat cafe

Head to your nearest cat cafe or pet store to spend some quality time with some furry friends. Enjoy some snacks while you watch cats play and lounge around.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Cat Lovers’ Month

Cats provide comfort

Just like humans, cats can offer emotional comfort in stressful situations. That purr is especially soothing when things seem overwhelming - so even though they might not say much, cats can still offer an incredible amount of solace and understanding when other people aren't around.

Cats are affectionate

Cats may not show their love in the same ways that dogs do, but they can still be incredibly sweet and affectionate. Whether it's cuddling up next to you while you're reading a book or perched atop your lap while you're watching TV, cats provide unparalleled comfort and joy in daily life.

Cats make great companions

There's nothing quite like having a furry feline friend to keep you company - cats are fiercely loyal and will always be there for you through thick and thin. Plus, cats require minimal time and effort to care for, so if you lead a busy lifestyle, they'll fit nicely into your routine!

FOR MARKETERS & CREATORS

Turn every day into a moment your audience actually shows up for.

8.4M
Monthly readers
5K+
Holidays tracked