[Written by a Veterinarian] Don't Know Your Rescue Cat's Birthday? How to Determine Their Age and Celebrate Their "Gotcha Day"

When examining a cat right after rescue, we are often asked, "When is their birthday?" Since you've become a family, it's very important to celebrate your beloved cat's birthday together. At the animal hospital, we can estimate their age from the condition of their teeth, eyes, and fur.

In this article, from a veterinarian's perspective, we will explain tips on how to determine age and safe ways to celebrate a birthday while considering your cat's health.

How to Decide and Determine a Rescue Cat's Birthday When You Don't Know It

Have the Animal Hospital Determine an "Estimated Age"

A cat's age (or month of age for kittens) can be estimated from the condition of their teeth, eyes, and fur. For kittens, you can guess "what month they were born," but not their exact date of birth.

Veterinarians mainly determine the estimated age from the following points:

• Condition of teeth (how they've grown in, whether they are deciduous or permanent teeth, amount of tartar, wear and tear on teeth)
• Weight and skeletal structure (age can be estimated from weight, and whether they are an adult or senior cat can be estimated)
• Condition of fur and eyes (kittens around 1 month old may show kitten blue eyes. For senior cats, condition can be estimated from the dryness of their fur)

Since the exact birth date cannot be known, if the animal hospital tells you "they were likely born in ○ month," there is absolutely no problem in setting their birthday as the 1st of that month, the day they were rescued, or any day you prefer.

Use the Rescue Date or the Day You Met Them as a "Provisional Birthday"

As mentioned earlier, in most cases of rescue cats, the exact birthday is unknown. If a rescue cat was born in your yard, for example, their exact date of birth might be known. If adopted from a rescue organization, it's common to use the "date they were rescued by the organization" as their birthday.

Alternatively, celebrating the "day your beloved cat's life was saved," such as the day you met them on the street, is also a wonderful way to decide their birthday.

Instead of a Birthday! What is a "Gotcha Day" unique to rescue cats?

Celebrating the "Adoption Day (the Day You Welcomed Them)" as a Family

Overseas, there's a culture of celebrating the day a rescue dog or cat becomes part of the family as "Gotcha Day," just like a birthday.

Let's celebrate the day you welcomed them as a special anniversary, filled with gratitude and blessings like "Thank you for coming to us" and "It's the start of a new life."

When checking birth dates at animal hospitals, I feel that many people who adopted adult cats set their "Gotcha Day" as their birthday.

It's Perfectly Fine to Celebrate Both a Birthday and an Anniversary!

Rescue cats who have both an "estimated birthday" and a "Gotcha Day" have two chances to be the star of the show each year.

Both are important days for strengthening the bond with your owner. Let's enjoy them as days to wish for your cat's health and be grateful for your peaceful daily life.

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What is a rescue cat's "Gotcha Day"? Explaining the meaning and difference from "My Pet's Anniversary"

"Gotcha Day" is a celebration of the day a rescue cat became part of the family. We'll explain the meaning of Gotcha Day, which is trending on social media overseas, its difference from "My Pet's Anniversary," and ways to show appreciation to your beloved cat.

[Veterinarian Explains] Precautions When Celebrating a Rescue Cat's Birthday/Anniversary

Beware of Indigestion Caused by "Special Treats" That Are Different from Usual

If you suddenly give a lot of unfamiliar luxurious cakes or snacks as a celebration, it can cause gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea and vomiting. In a real case at our hospital, there was an instance where a cat became ill after being given human ice cream and whipped cream on an anniversary. Never give human food to cats.

Adding just a small amount of your cat's favorite treat as a topping to their usual food is the safest and most enjoyable treat for their body.

Photoshoots and Dressing Up Should Be Within the Limits of "Not Stressing the Cat"

It's a no-go to force a hat on a reluctant cat or restrain them for a long time just to take a記念 photo.

If you're going to dress them up, stick to something like adding an easy-to-attach ribbon or bandana to a collar they're already used to wearing. If your cat doesn't usually wear accessories, consider using photo editing apps to add stamps or other effects to avoid causing them stress.

Also, at human events, you might pop party poppers or cheer loudly, but for cats, this can be very stressful. Just say "Happy Birthday" in your usual tone of voice.

Summary: Cherish the "Special Day" to Express Love, Rather Than an Exact Birthday

Unless a cat was born at home or similar, their exact birthday is unknown. Therefore, it's fine to ask the vet for an estimated age and choose any day you like as their birthday. It's recommended to set the day you welcomed them as their "Gotcha Day = Birthday."

When celebrating, be considerate of your cat's stress and health. Being surrounded by family in a safe and secure environment is the greatest celebration for a cat.

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For rescue cats whose birthday is unknown. Wonderful ways to spend and gifts for "Gotcha Day"

"Gotcha Day" is a celebratory day for rescue cats whose birthday is unknown. We'll introduce recommended gifts and ways to enjoy this special anniversary with your cat! Spend a special day filled with gratitude, "Thank you for becoming part of our family" and "Thank you for being born."

Recommended cat collars for birthdays and Gotcha Days

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