Today is another of CatCentric’s favorites – International Cat Day, when pet owners all over the world celebrate the mystery and wonder of our beloved feline friends.
Also known as World Cat Day, this well-earned day of recognition was founded in 2002 by the International Fund for Animal Welfare and other animal rights groups to honor one of the oldest – and currently most popular – pets worldwide.
Cats live on every continent but Antarctica and have been human companions for over 10,000 years. Last August, the Ecology Global Network estimated an amazing worldwide population of 600 million, and according to the American Veterinarian Medical Association, Americans own 74.1 million of those cats (exceeding the U.S. canine population by 4.4 million). Scientists believe that cats are the only animals that domesticated themselves, which should come as no surprise to most cat owners.
Here at CatCentric, of course, we think cats are the most delightful, fascinating creatures on the planet. They are also complex, with unique and often misunderstood behavior patterns and physiological needs. Sharing your life with a cat requires forethought and preparation, and caring for one properly is a lifetime commitment.
The reward, however, is priceless.
