World Cat Day: Beyond the cuddles, responsible care matters

Cats are among the world’s most popular companion animals, winning people over with their playful nature, affection and ability to adapt easily to human surroundings. But as more people bring cats into their homes, animal experts are urging owners to look beyond the affection and embrace the responsibilities that come with pet ownership.

World Cat Day, observed annually on August 8, is marked around the world to promote awareness of cats’ welfare and encourage responsible care.

The observance was first launched in 2002 at the initiative of the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) and has since evolved into an important awareness day for cat lovers and animal welfare advocates.

In Bangladesh, interest in keeping cats as pets has grown notably, particularly among young people and university and college students. Both local and imported breeds are now commonly found in pet shops and through online platforms, including Persian, Bengal, Siberian, mixed-breed and domestic cats.

Domestic and Persian cats remain among the most popular choices, partly because of their availability and relatively manageable costs.

Animal experts say living with pets can help reduce stress and ease feelings of loneliness. Spending time with a companion animal can also contribute to a more positive emotional environment. But maintaining a cat’s health requires consistent care rather than occasional attention.

Fatima Ferdous, a veterinary and animal science student and animal welfare enthusiast, said cats are relatively susceptible to respiratory infections such as feline flu, making age-appropriate vaccination important.

She recommended beginning feline flu vaccination at around two and a half months of age and rabies vaccination from three months, with a booster dose for the flu vaccine about a month after the initial shot.

Maintaining a clean and safe living environment is equally important. Owners should provide nutritious food and clean drinking water, regularly clean litter boxes, brush the cat’s coat and allow adequate opportunities for exercise and play.

Any sudden change in behaviour, appetite or physical condition should prompt consultation with a veterinarian. Scratches and bites should not be dismissed either, particularly when the animal is unfamiliar, sick or has been exposed to stray or wild animals.

Various global estimates put the number of domestic cats at around 370 million. Cat ownership also reportedly rose sharply in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic, while misconceptions about cats and the virus led some people in Bangladesh to abandon their pets.

Experts note that although cats can carry certain pathogens, they do not automatically pose a serious threat to humans. Rabies remains a genuine concern, however, particularly following exposure to an infected animal. Timely vaccination, responsible care and prompt medical attention can substantially reduce the risk.

For World Cat Day, animal welfare advocates say the most meaningful way to celebrate is not simply by sharing pictures or offering treats, but by ensuring that cats receive proper healthcare and a safe environment.

Keeping vaccinations up to date, seeking veterinary advice when illness or unusual behaviour appears, responding promptly to scratches or bites and preventing cats from roaming unsupervised can all contribute to their wellbeing.

Ultimately, responsible ownership means recognising that a cat is not merely a household companion or a source of entertainment, but a living animal whose health, safety and welfare depend largely on the care it receives.