September is International Happy Cat Month, making it the best time possible to pay extra attention to any feline friends in your life. Originally established to counter the misconception that cats are entirely self-sufficient and low maintenance, Happy Cat Month encourages proactive care, emphasizing that cats thrive when treated as integral family members.
This special month was the brainchild of the CATalyst Council, which is a coalition dedicated to promoting cat health, welfare, and adoption. Since its founding, Happy Cat Month has helped educate a growing percentage of the 46.5 million households in the United States with at least one cat.
In fact, the number of households is growing. According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), there is a surge in cat adoptions, particularly among Gen Z and Millennial men. Along with these new “Cat Dads,” multi-cat households have grown by 36 percent.
Drawing from APPA insights, expert wellness tips, and real “Cat Dad” stories, All About Spot has handpicked 10 practical ways to make your cat feel like true family. These strategies blend play, care, and bonding for seasoned owners and new adopters alike.
1. Schedule a comprehensive wellness checkup.
Start Happy Cat Month by prioritizing preventive health. The APPA’s 2025 report emphasizes a growing focus on proactive wellness, with 34 percent of cat owners now using vitamins and supplements, which is a 70 percent jump since 2018. Annual vet visits are crucial; bi-annual visits for cats over seven years. Other wellness tips include watching for signs of obesity, and don’t forget dental cleanings.
2. Upgrade to a premium, functional diet.
Nutrition is the cornerstone of feline health. The APPA notes a 138 percent increase in cat food toppers and mixers since 2018, as owners seek to enhance kibble with nutritious add-ins. Focus on balanced diets rich in taurine, omega-3s, and probiotics to support digestion and immunity. Wellness experts also recommend age-specific formulas and avoiding fillers whenever possible.
3. Introduce interactive toys for daily play.
Toys aren’t luxuries anymore. They are essential for mental stimulation. The APPA reports that 48 percent of owners now train cats, representing a 41 percent increase since 2018. Aim for 15-20 minutes of daily play to prevent boredom and obesity. Some top picks include the Frisco Bird with Feathers Teaser Wand and the KONG Refillables Crinkle Catnip Toy.
4. Invest in a stylish happy cat sofa or bed.
Cat sofas elevate comfort, aligning with the new trend of pet-inclusive furniture. These modular pieces, often with built-in scratchers, blend into homes while giving cats elevated spots. Choose scratch-resistant fabrics like microfiber or performance weaves that repel hair and claws. Consider the Pottery Barn York Slipcovered Sofa or the Armarkat Cat Tree Sofa, which combines lounging and climbing.
5. Host a themed cat party for happy cat month.
Celebrate like 21 percent of all cat owners and host a party that encourages joy and socialization. Plan a low-key gathering with cat-safe treats, toys, and decorations. Many hosts include tuna cakes, commercial cat cakes, and toys as gifts for attending. While APPA notes party hats for cats are up 90 percent, don’t forget that different cats react differently to dressing up for the occasion.
6. Incorporate puzzles for mental stimulation.
Puzzle toys can tap into a cat’s hunting instincts, helping the cat reduce stress and get more exercise. Some standouts this year include the Doc & Phoebe’s Cat Feeder Kit, which dispenses treats via problem solving, or the VIWIK Interactive Cat Toy Mat with hidden compartments. Whatever you pick, it always pays to rotate toys every week to help maintain interest.
7. Pamper with regular grooming and spa days.
Regular grooming prevents hairballs and provides an opportunity to look for issues. In addition to weekly brushings and monthly nail trimmings, think about trying some new calming supplements. Currently, introducing calming supplements is up 174 percent since 2018.
8. Create a safe, enriched environment for life.
Provide climbing trees and windowsill perches. Indoor cats will live longer when they have an enjoyable environment. One way to improve it is to look for environments like the KONG Rave Cave, which enriches lives with tunnels. Just remember to choose environments without toxins and ensure your cat has litter access.
9. Foster more bonding through basic training.
While we already touched on the uptick in training cats, it’s important to note that almost 48 percent of owners use treats to reward their cats. Some of the most popular treating activities include teaching cats to sit or leash walk, both of which help build trust.
10. Share “Cat Dad” and “Cat Mom” stories for the community.
Join online groups like APPA spotlights “Cat Dads” and “Cat Moms,” driving adoption. Alternatively, you can share different activities and adventures on social media networks. Not only do people love to watch cat videos, but shared stories, product reviews, or even funny moments help encourage other people to consider adoption.
With almost 30 percent of all households having at least one cat, there is no question that trends like cat parties, sofa moments, and wellness checks are here to stay. And you know what that means. Happy Cat Month is a movement for America to make deeper feline bonds.
By implementing these 10 tips, we know your cat will feel like family. And please don’t forget that when one of these tips sticks, you can easily make a note in your pet records on All About Spot. That way, your cats will receive the same level of care they expect, even during those rare moments that someone else may be caring for them — and that’s what Happy Cat Month is all about.
