Are you a proud owner of a furry feline friend? As a pet parent, you know that cats are more than just animals; they’re a part of your family. As responsible cat owners, it’s important to make sure our cats are living their best (nine) lives. And that’s what National Cat Health Month is all about.
For those who adore their furry feline friends, this is the time of year devoted exclusively to cat care. National Cat Health Month emphasizes the significance of a cat’s emotional and physical well-being. This event is held every February. Because of Valentine’s Day, February is known as the month of love, which makes it an ideal time to prioritize your cat’s health and lavish them with extra affection and attention.
What is National Cat Health Month?
National Cat Health Month is a month-long campaign to raise awareness about the importance of cat health. Whether you treat this month seriously or as just a bit of fun, this is a time to focus on your feline. During this month, veterinarians, animal welfare organizations, and pet owners come together to promote the health and well-being of cats. Felines have always been a beloved pet, with over 40 million American households owning one. That’s a lot of kitties! Considering their long history and the happiness they bring to our lives, it’s the least we can do to celebrate them for a month every year.
Although National Cat Health Month is a relatively modern phenomenon, our admiration for cats has been present since ancient times, predating their domestication. The Ancient Egyptians lauded these felines for their ability to eliminate venomous snakes and protect the Pharaoh, even depicting their gods with cat heads. These animals were so venerated that they were buried with opulent necklaces and mummified. Around 12,000 years ago, cats began their relationship with humans by ridding farmers of bothersome rodents. They quickly became treasured for pest control and provided with sustenance in return. Suffice it to say, humans have loved these cuties for a long time.
So, February is a time to connect with our furry friends and ensure they’re in optimal physical and mental health. If you’re looking for ideas on how to celebrate your cat’s well-being, keep reading. This month offers many opportunities to focus on our cats’ well-being and participate in activities that reflect that.
How is National Cat Health Month Celebrated?
National Cat Health Month is celebrated in a variety of ways. Some veterinarians offer discounted health checkups for cats during this month. Others host workshops and seminars to educate cat owners about the best practices for cat care. Here are some ways you can celebrate National Cat Health Month:
1. Have Your Cat Checked Out
Just like humans, cats need regular health checkups to ensure they’re healthy. Making sure your cat gets regular check-ups from a veterinarian is key to keeping them healthy. Even if your cat appears to be doing well, it’s still important to confirm that regularly. During National Cat Health Month, a health checkup will give your veterinarian a chance to check for any issues and make recommendations for keeping your cat healthy. Some vets will run discounted offers during this time. Take advantage, so you can rest easy knowing that your furry friend is in excellent health.
2. Time for Toys
The emotional and psychological well-being of your feline friend is as important as their physical health, and introducing a new plaything can work wonders for your cat’s mood. Novelty and stimulation provide enrichment for their busy little minds. A new toy will keep your cat entertained, help them exercise, and will also offer a chance for you to build a stronger bond.
3. Keep an Eye Out for Deals
In celebration of National Cat Health Month, pet stores may offer discounts on a range of products that promote cat health, such as high-quality cat food, vitamins, supplements, and other health-related items. Stock up! These markdowns are to encourage pet owners to stock up on essential items to help keep their furry friends healthy and happy. It’s a great time to take advantage of these special offers.
4. Watch Your Cat’s Weight
Obesity is a common health problem for cats. It’s the single biggest (no pun intended) health issue for our overfed kitties. During National Cat Health Month, pay attention to your cat’s weight. This is an ideal time to take stock and consider making changes. If your cat is overweight, talk to your veterinarian about developing a weight loss plan.
5. The Power of Social Media
Sharing on social media allows us to connect with others and showcase the happy moments in our lives, including our love for our feline friends. Take advantage of your social media accounts by posting a snapshot of you and your cat, whether it’s playing with a new toy or on your way to the vet. Write a clever caption and be sure to include the hashtag #nationalcathealthmonth. Encourage your fellow cat-loving pals to follow suit and start a fresh trend for the month of February.
6. Keep Your Cat Active
Exercise is important for maintaining a healthy weight and promoting good health in cats. Some people think cats are responsible for their own activity levels. But our kitties can get very bored and unhappy without a playmate. During National Cat Health Month, make an effort to keep your cat active. This could include playing with toys, going for walks, or setting up an obstacle course.
7. The Camera Loves You
If your feline friend is game, you could organize a professional photography session to capture some unforgettable moments. However, we can’t all afford the pros—and today’s smartphones do a great job of documenting our special memories. Whatever you do to record your relationship, these images will serve as a treasured keepsake for years to come.
8. Pay Attention to Your Cat’s Diet
What your cat eats plays a big role in their overall health. During National Cat Health Month, it’s time to inventory your cat’s diet. When you take your cat for a checkup, chat with your vet about how you’re feeding your fluffy friend. Make sure they’re getting the right balance of nutrients and avoid feeding them table scraps or other human food.
Schedule an appointment with a cat groomer to attend to your cat’s grooming necessities. Why shouldn’t they be at their absolute prettiest for National Health Month? Although brushing your cat’s coat is important, a professional can also provide services such as trimming your feline’s nails or giving them a luxurious coat treatment.
10. Find a Way to Give Back
Set aside a portion of your day to volunteer at a nearby animal shelter. You can offer to help with various tasks, such as sanitizing the space, feeding the cats, or providing them with playtime. In the event that you are unable to spare some time, contemplate donating food or money to the shelter. Additionally, you can support the shelter by following and sharing its social media accounts or by uploading snapshots of your time spent at the shelter.
Conclusion
In conclusion, National Cat Health Month is an important reminder to all of us to celebrate and show love to our cats. From researching the latest health trends for kitties to scheduling a vet checkup, there are plenty of ways you can get involved in the celebration. Plus, it’s a great way to show your cat some extra love and attention! During this month, cat owners can learn more about what it takes to keep their cats healthy, how to recognize any potential issues, and how regular check-ups are essential for prevention.
Featured Image Credit: Lapina, Shutterstock