National Feral Cat Day

Rajnandini Roychoudhury
Dec 22, 2023 By Rajnandini Roychoudhury
Originally Published on Feb 20, 2022
Fact-checked by Naman Khanna
Celebrate National Feral Cat Day to protect the species.

Where is National Feral Cat Day celebrated?

This day is celebrated mostly in the USA, where the 'Alley Cat Allies' is located.

Who is National Feral Cat Day celebrated by?

This day is celebrated widely by the people who love felines and want to provide them with forever homes.

When did National Feral Cat Day first start?

 National Feral Cat Day was launched in August 2001 when an American non-profit organization, Alley Cat Allies, celebrated its 10th anniversary.

Who started National Feral Cat Day?

Alley Cat Allies raises awareness about feral cats and their safety, and they are the ones who started National Feral Cat Day.

History And Timeline

Cats have been living alongside humans for about 10,000 years now. Cats were not always domesticated; they were always outdoor felines. Traditionally, they don't stay in packs. However, feral cats prefer to stay in colonies.

Formation Of Feral Colonies

Some cats were domesticated in Egypt. However, their population started increasing, and feral cat colonies were formed.

2,000 BC

More Expansion Of The Species

During this time, the population of cats started rising even more throughout the world.

300 BC

Introduction Of Feral Cats

During sailing missions, feral cats were introduced to the world.

1700s

Formation Of Alley Cat Allies

The US non-profit organization Alley Cat Allies was formed to solve problems and raise awareness about feral cats.

1990

Cat Feral Day

National Feral Cat Day was launched by Alley Cat Allies to help save feral cat colonies.

2001

Traditions And Customs

There are no particular traditions or customs associated with this day. However, you can utilize this day to do some good for the pet community.

Ways To Observe Or Celebrate National Feral Cat Day

There are different ways in which you can celebrate cats. You can take part in the Trap-Neuter-Return program, which allows you to improve the quality of life for these lovable nomads in a simple and non-lethal way.

This program helps cats in ways shelters can't. If you can't do this alone, why don't you consider volunteering with Alley Cat Allies, who have been working tirelessly to raise awareness about feral cats and how to save them.

Another way to celebrate this day is by adopting a cat. There are several shelters that host and encourage people to adopt pets rather than buy them, especially on such occasions.

Facts And Stats

  • Feral cats are the same species as pet cats but avoid human contact; therefore, they are not adopted very often, and that is why this day is important in promoting awareness for this species.
  • Feral cats are outdoor felines who live in cat colonies and manage to remain as healthy as pet cats, and this day celebrates them.
  • The Feral Cat Day is a great day to adopt a feral cat.

Can you home a feral cat?

Feral kittens can be easily tamed, but it requires a lot of patience to tame adult feral cats.

How many feral cats are in the US in 2019?

In 2019, there were about 32 million feral cats, out of which 73% lived in urban areas.

Can a feral cat hurt you?

Feral cats rarely attack humans. They avoid any human contact or interaction.

How long before a cat goes feral?

After reaching four months of age, kittens start attaining some feral characteristics.

How can you tell if a cat is feral?

The physical appearance is the biggest giveaway in identifying a feral cat. They are usually more muscular and well-kept in comparison to stray cats.

What is the significance of National Feral Cat Day?

This day is celebrated to spread awareness on how to take care of feral cat colonies and prevent them.

Who started National Feral Cat Day and when?

Alley Cat Allies started this day in 2001.

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Thursday, October 15, 2020
  • Friday, October 15, 2021
  • Saturday, October 15, 2022
  • Sunday, October 15, 2023
  • Tuesday, October 15, 2024

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Written by Rajnandini Roychoudhury

Bachelor of Arts specializing in English, Master of Arts specializing in English

Rajnandini Roychoudhury picture

Rajnandini RoychoudhuryBachelor of Arts specializing in English, Master of Arts specializing in English

With a Master of Arts in English, Rajnandini has pursued her passion for the arts and has become an experienced content writer. She has worked with companies such as Writer's Zone and has had her writing skills recognized by publications such as The Telegraph. Rajnandini is also trilingual and enjoys various hobbies such as music, movies, travel, philanthropy, writing her blog, and reading classic British literature. 

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Fact-checked by Naman Khanna

Bachelor of Arts specializing in English Literature

Naman Khanna picture

Naman KhannaBachelor of Arts specializing in English Literature

An English literature graduate from Delhi University, Naman's broad interests include mathematics, science, and social science. With his knowledge and expertise in multiple subjects, he is an asset to our fact-checking team. Naman is set to pursue his postgraduate degree in English literature soon.

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