Why Is International Cat Day on August 8th? Origins and How It Differs from Japan's "Cat Day" on February 22nd Explained

Every year, February 22nd is Cat Day in Japan. Various companies post on social media to celebrate Cat Day, and cat-themed goods and sweets are released, making it an enjoyable event even for those who don't live with a cat.

Actually, "Cat Day" isn't just in Japan; it exists worldwide. That is August 8th, "International Cat Day." Even though they are both "Cat Day," the organizations that established them and their origins are completely different from Japan's Cat Day.

This time, we will explain in detail why International Cat Day is August 8th, its origins and meaning, and how it differs from Japan's Cat Day. These are two important commemorative days for cat lovers, so please take this opportunity to learn about them.

When is Japan's Cat Day?

Cat Day is imbued with the wish to "have a commemorative day to appreciate the happiness of living with cats and to savor this joy together with them."

The expression "savor this joy" conveys deep cat love.

Cat Day is a commemorative day established in 1987 by the "Cat Day Executive Committee," which consists of cultural figures who are cat lovers, and the Japan Pet Food Association.

Origin of Cat Day

Japan's Cat Day is February 22nd every year.

February 22nd was chosen as a play on words, "nyan-nyan-nyan" (meow-meow-meow). It's very easy to remember.

What kind of day is Cat Day?

Currently, cat-related events are held throughout Japan, and activities promoting awareness about rescued cats are also conducted.

On social media platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), many cat images and videos are posted with the hashtag "#猫の日" (Cat Day). Cat Day resembles a cat festival, creating a buzz that makes it an irresistible commemorative day for cat lovers.

When is International Cat Day?

The most famous cat commemoration day in the world is August 8th, "International Cat Day." In English, it is called "International Cat Day" or "World Cat Day."

Origin of International Cat Day

International Cat Day was established in 2002 by IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare), an animal welfare organization headquartered in Canada. IFAW was founded in 1969 and works to protect pets, wildlife, and animals affected by disasters in over 40 countries worldwide.

International Cat Day embodies the wish to deepen the bond between humans and cats, and to vow to provide a safe life for cats in need of help. In addition to awareness campaigns to highlight the issue of cat euthanasia globally, international cat events are also held in various locations.

Why is August 8th International Cat Day?

IFAW has not officially announced a specific reason for choosing August 8th. It seems there isn't a simple wordplay like Japan's Cat Day.

August 8th is easy to remember due to its number sequence, and it also falls at a time when many countries are entering their summer holiday season. It could be that this period is convenient for holding awareness events.

The fact that "Why is August 8th International Cat Day?" becomes a topic of conversation might be part of the uniqueness of International Cat Day.

Differences between International Cat Day and Japan's Cat Day

While both are "Cat Days," there are several differences between International Cat Day and Japan's Cat Day.

	Japan's Cat Day	International Cat Day
Date	February 22nd	August 8th
Year Established	1987	2002
Establishing Organization	Cat Day Executive Committee Japan Pet Food Association	IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare)
Origin	"Nyan-nyan-nyan" (meow-meow-meow) wordplay	No official announcement
Purpose	Gratitude for the happiness of living with cats	Awareness for cat protection and welfare

Japan's Cat Day is a domestic commemorative day focused on "gratitude for the happiness of living with cats," while International Cat Day is characterized by its strong international awareness-raising aspect, aiming for "improving cat welfare."

Both days share the commonality of being commemorative days born from a deep love for cats.

"Cat Day" in various countries around the world

"Cat Day" isn't only celebrated in Japan or as International Cat Day. In fact, each country has its own unique Cat Day.

February 17th: Italy's Cat Day
March 1st: Russia's Cat Day
April 4th: Taiwan's Cat Day
October 29th: America's Cat Day (National Cat Day)

There are also "Cat Festivals" and "Black Cat Appreciation Day," which shows that there are cat lovers all over the world.

Things to do on Cat Day

Just by being there, cats bring happiness and healing.

On Cat Day, many cat owners seem to want to do things that will make their beloved cats happy.

For example, gifts. A slightly better treat than usual, new toys, or a scratching post would likely make them happy. Additionally, practical gifts for cats' lives, such as easy-to-eat dishes or cat collars, are also recommended.

Of course, spending a relaxing time with your cat is also the best.

Petting your cat in their favorite spots or playing a lot with their favorite toy. It's also nice to take extra time to brush them thoroughly.

Cat Health Checkup Day

According to the Japan Anniversary Association, February 22nd is recognized as "Cat Health Checkup Day."

It is a commemorative day established by "Team HOPE," a veterinary organization that promotes pet health checkups, to raise awareness about the early detection of cat diseases and the importance of regular health checkups.

Cats are creatures that hide illnesses, so it's not uncommon for it to be too late by the time their owners notice something is wrong. Early detection and early treatment are crucial for cats to live healthy and long lives.

While taking your cat to the vet might be a bit challenging, a health checkup as a gift on Cat Day once a year is a wonderful idea.

What you can do even if you don't own a cat

"Cat Day" is also an opportunity to learn about rescued cats.

Even if you don't own a cat, you can support cats in need by "visiting a rescued cat cafe," "donating to a rescued cat organization," or "buying cat goods at an event."

Please pay attention to Cat Day events to help reduce the number of cats suffering.

Summary

Japan's Cat Day is on February 22nd every year (nya-nya-nya), and International Cat Day is on August 8th every year.

Both Cat Days are for celebrating cats and embody the desire to save cats in need of help.

On Cat Day, many cat owners seem to want to give their beloved cats special treats, send them wonderful gifts, or do things that will make them even happier than usual.

Even if you don't own a cat, you can support rescued cats by visiting rescued cat cafes or participating in cat events.

Cat Day, imbued with deep cat love, is a wonderful time to spend with your beloved cat, and also to reflect on cats around the world!