9 Ways To Celebrate And Advocate For Felines On Global Cat Day
Happy Global Cat Day! The day is a call on communities around the world to implement humane programs for cats. This year’s theme is “Cats Are Community.” According to the…
Happy Global Cat Day! The day is a call on communities around the world to implement humane programs for cats. This year's theme is "Cats Are Community." According to the Global Cat Day website, the themes "is a rallying call of this global truth: Cats have lived alongside people for thousands of years, have a place in our communities, and are beings of inherent value who deserve to be protected." Today, let's celebrate cats!
Meet the Global Cat Day Cats
Mikey is an Atlantic City Boardwalk cat. Mikey lives with his fellow community cats at the world-famous Atlantic City Boardwalk in New Jersey. The Boardwalk Cats there make their homes in secret spaces beneath the boardwalk. Mikey is a celebrity in the area, and while he appreciates his fans, he does keep boundaries with people. Mikey also reportedly has a girlfriend named Snickers.
Leo is from Instanbul, Turkey. Instanbul has a long love of cats that dates back to the Ottoman Empire, which held the domestic cat in high regard. The city has unique spaces for cats, including creative outdoor cat houses. Leo (pronounced "Leh-ou"), is an older and much-loved cat. He's described as independent and feisty, and in his neighborhood, residents make space for him and respect his boundaries.
Nibus is from Shenandoah Valley, West Virginia. He's a community cat who lives outdoors and spends his lazy days around his favorite barn. He's 8-years-old and is named after the grey clouds that match his slate-colored fur. Nimbus is popular in the community and considered the ringleader among his best feline friends, Aladdin and King Arthur. He's described as independent, outdoorsy, fearless, friendly, and feisty— a true West Virginian!
Why Global Cat Day?
Global Cat Day was launched in 2017 by Alley Cat Allies as a day when advocates around the globe to lead the charge to protect cats and kittens. What can you do to help? According to Alley Cat Allies, there are several ways to help. Here are some of their ideas to take action on Global Cat Day.
Do Trap-Neuter-Return for community cats
Trap-Neuter-Return is the process of community cats being humanely trapped, brought to a vet clinic to be spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and eartipped, then returned to their outdoor homes. Trap-Neuter-Return is said to address community concerns, reduce shelter intake and killing, and reduces calls to animal services.
Build outdoor cat shelters or feeding stations
One of the best ways to improve your community for cats is to provide them with a safe place to rest. It also allows community cat caregivers to monitor their wellbeing and know where to locate them. Visit the above link to learn more and find out how to make one.
Advocate for cats
Since cats don't have a voice of their own, you can become a powerful advocate for them. Decisions are made by your elected officials, animal control officers, and animal shelter staff every day. Use your voice and support humane laws and policies.
Fundraise to help provide food and veterinary care for cats
GettyKitty care is expensive. You can help contribute to the care they need by making a donation. You can also get your family and friends together to fundraise for the care and supplies that they need.
Donate cat food to an animal food bank or hold your own cat food and supply drive
GettyIf you're looking to make a donation, shelters are always looking for food and supplies. You can check out the MSPCA's wish list HERE.
Donate to Alley Cat Allies & other cat-friendly organizations
Alley Cat Allies is the leading organization advocating for cats and kittens. Every dollar you give helps ACA to protect cats across the United States and around the world. They say their critical work depends on the generosity and compassion of our supporters like you.
Volunteer to help cats and kittens
(Photo by David Goldman/MediaNews Group/Boston Herald via Getty Images)Love cats but can't have one yourself? Or maybe you have one, or two, and can't take in any more? You can still help by volunteering at your local shelter.
Foster or adopt a cat or kitten
The MSPCA is a great place to look to bring some kitty love into your home. Check out their Adoption Center HERE to find your next feline friend.
Host a cat adoption event
Team up with your local shelter and host a cat adoption event. Maybe your job would want to sponsor your efforts. Make a difference in the lives of kitties.
