Roll out the red carpet and the catnip for your furry feline friend, because International Cat Day is the one day a year when black cats bring good luck and cat eye sunglasses match your entire wardrobe.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
International Cat Day recognises the love and devotion we have for one of humanity’s oldest and most beloved pets.
Owning a cat has been proven to improve mental health and to relieve stress, anxiety and depression.
So when it’s raining cats and dogs outside and you don’t have someone to cuddle with, any black, ginger, Persian, Siamese, Burmese, Bengal, Shorthair, Munchkin, Balinese, RagaMuffin or old stray will do the trick.
Australia’s love for cats shows no signs of waning, with a total estimated pet cat population of almost 3.9 million but research reveals that 83% of Australian cats have some level of outdoor access, which increases their risk of traumatic injuries, and their exposure to infectious and parasitic diseases.
Bondi Vet Dr Lisa Chimes said our cat population has actually increased by 6% since 2013.
“Almost a third of Australian households have a pet cat,” Dr Chimes said.
“International Cat Day is the perfect time to celebrate our loyal and loving companions, but it is also a timely reminder that we need to be vigilant about their health.”
“Many owners think their indoor cat is safe from disease, but even if you’re just letting your cat go outside to the toilet or to have a quick breath of fresh air, they may be at risk of some diseases.”
“A proper understanding of a cat’s lifestyle is essential to ensure that appropriate measures, like vaccination and flea and worming treatments can be given to those animals at risk,” she said.
Dr Chimes recommends a minimum of one health check for cats every year, with more frequent check-ups for senior and geriatric pets, or cats with medical or behavioural conditions.
