August 8, 2024 – Created in 2002 by the International Fund for Animal Welfare, International Cat Day brings together cat enthusiasts from around the world to celebrate the beloved species!
International Cat Care encourages anyone who shares their passion to #CelebrateCats, creating a vibrant community that advocates for their welfare. The organisation has shared some ways you can take part in International Cat Day…
- Celebrate your cat today by spending some extra time with them. Consider giving them a favourite treat, a new toy and enjoy at least 5 minutes of playtime together.
- Show off how you’re marking International Cat Day by posting photos or videos on social media with the hashtags #InternationalCatDay and #CelebrateCats, and tag @icatcare.
- Showcase how your workplace celebrates cats. For example, share stories about veterinary clinics with Cat Friendly Clinic status or how those helping unowned cats make a positive impact on their lives.
- Wear something pink or cat-themed at work to let your colleagues and clients know you’re supporting International Cat Day and celebrating cats everywhere.
- Make a donation or organise a fundraiser for your favourite cat welfare charity, like International Cat Care, and encourage your fellow cat enthusiasts to join in.
- Post photos of your cat or a cat that has made a difference in your life, sharing what makes them special to you. Connect with other cat lovers on social media using #InternationalCatDay and #CelebrateCats.
How COVID-19 Impacted the Cat Petfood Industry
The COVID-19 pandemic has had lasting effects on all commercial sectors, including the pet industry. According to recent data from the Pet Food Manufacturer’s Association, 3.2 million UK households acquired a pet since the pandemic began (Paley, 2021). This surge in pet ownership has significantly boosted the industry, particularly evident in the UK pet food market, which has reached a record value of £3.2 billion.
A study by Grand View Research on cat food market size, shares and trends indicates that in 2022, the cat food industry was valued at USD 31.28 billion and is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.4% from 2023 to 2030. This growth is driven by increasing cat ownership, more people now humanising their pets and a heightened global awareness of pet nutrition. Furthermore, the growth of e-commerce and the convenience of purchasing cat food online have simplified access to products that meet pets’ specific needs.
Cat food is specially designed to meet the unique dietary requirements of cats, who are obligate carnivores needing a diet rich in protein and fats from animal sources. Consequently, cat food often includes meat-based proteins such as chicken, turkey, fish, or beef. In addition to protein, it provides essential nutrients like minerals, vitamins, and fats to support overall health, growth, and development, especially for kittens and adult cats.
The pandemic has also increased attention on pet health, prompting owners to choose foods that support overall well-being and contain functional ingredients that enhance the longevity of their pets’ lives. The trend of treating pets as family members has led to a growing demand for high-quality, nutritious, and premium cat food that mirrors the standards of human food. Pet owners are increasingly looking for specialised options that offer superior nutrition and care.
COVID-19 has also led to significant changes in consumer behaviour. With lockdowns limiting movement, many have shifted to online shopping for pet supplies, leading to a surge in online sales due to the convenience. Moreover, the pandemic has influenced pet shops, as many owners now prefer to support local businesses. The rise in pet ownership has made pet shops crucial resources for both new and experienced owners, offering these stores an opportunity to expand and strengthen their customer base.
In North America, the U.S. is the largest consumer of cat food, driven by rising pet adoption rates. According to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA), 46.5 million households in the U.S. had cats in 2021, making them the second most popular pet. The American Veterinary Medical Association reports that U.S. cat owners spent approximately $653 annually per cat in 2020, with $310 dedicated to food. These factors are expected to continue driving demand for cat food in the coming years.
For more information on International Cat Day visit HERE
