International Cat Day: Cats are extremely underrated. They are frequently described as “mean” and “lack affection,” but take it from someone who has worked with cats and has a few feline friends: all that is utter hogwash.
Cats that have been tamed for thousands of years have been our companions, but they still have a bit of a negative reputation. Some people view their independence as a perk, while others view it as aloofness or selfishness. If their food bowl is empty, they just display affection, claim their detractors.
Date and theme for International Cat Day
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The world observes World Cat Day on August 8. In order to celebrate and honour cats, the International Fund for Animal Welfare created International Cat Day in 2002. This ceremony aims to raise awareness of how to keep cats safe from harm.
In 2020, International Cat Care assumed custody of the holiday. This British non-profit group, which was established in 1958, advocates for the global health and wellbeing of domestic cats. On International Cat Day, let’s put an end to some widespread cat myths.
Not every cat has the good fortune to have a loving and secure home, cosy sofas to sleep on, and food to eat. It is quite typical for stray cats to not get kindness and possibly end up being beaten. In India, 4,93,910 animals were tortured by people between 2010 and 2020, according to a report created by the Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organizations (FIAPO) and All Creatures Great and Small (ACGS).
This day is significant for all animal lovers, not just those who love cats. The commemoration of International Cat Day is an important occasion for individuals who want to care for and safeguard these animals.
Typical Cat Myths
♦ Cats never fall to the ground. Factual statement: Cats naturally land on their feet, but if they fall from a height, they risk breaking their bones. Your windows and balconies can be made cat-proof to protect pets from dangerous falls.
♦ Cats need to consume milk daily. The truth is: Definitely not! Cats enjoy milk, but if they are well-fed, they don’t require it. Ingesting excessive amounts of milk can also make cats sick (lactose intolerance). Therefore, if you can, only provide modest amounts of it.
♦ Cats who have been spayed or neutered always gain weight. Cats put on weight in the same way that people do by overeating or not exercising enough. An animal’s metabolism slows and its appetite drops after spaying or neutering. If the cat continues to consume the same amount, it can put on weight. Cats may maintain their health by getting exercise and not overeating.
♦ Cats are immune from rabies. Fact: Rabies can be carried by almost any warm-blooded creature, including cats, bats, skunks, and ferrets. Cats should also receive routine vaccinations.
♦ Indoor cats are immune to illness. Factual statement: Cats are still susceptible to illnesses brought in on shoes or clothing or spread through the air. Since most cats spend at least some time outside each day, they are susceptible to infections and worms spread by contact with animal faeces. As a result, it is important to vaccinate your cats annually.
As a Final Thought
Animals’ behaviour is influenced by human expectations of them. By making cats become more dog-like and show us attention, we are driving them away from their natural behaviour.
Don’t be disappointed the next time you go home to find a cat silently watching you from the couch or ambling into the hallway. They’re happy to meet you despite their subdued greeting. Don’t shop, adopt instead!
