Cats are one of the most common households pets in the US, and are celebrated worldwide on August 8.
International Cat Day, first established by the International Fund for Animal Welfare, was founded to help to educate the public on how to properly raise and protect our feline friends.
Nearly 32 million households in the US own at least one cat, data from the American Veterinary Medical Association shows.
Celebrities who love cats — in pictures
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British comedian Ricky Gervais adopted a cat called Pickle during the Covid-19 lockdowns. AFP -
US singer Katy Perry famously had a cat called Kitty Purry, who starred in the 'I Kissed A Girl' music video. AFP -
US singer Taylor Swift has three cats and takes them around with her. GC Images -
British actor and comedian Russell Brand has a veritable zoo at home, with more than 10 animals. Getty Images/AFP -
American reality TV star Kim Kardashian added a new kitten to her family in 2021. Getty Images -
American rapper Machine Gun Kelly recently added a Bengal kitten to his family with fiancee Megan Fox. Invision / AP -
American singer Britney Spears introduced her new cat Wendy to her social media followers, ahead of her wedding to Sam Asghari. Invision / AP, File -
Jennifer Lopez, right, brought a new cat home ahead of her wedding to Ben Affleck. Getty / AFP -
American actor Mark Ruffalo, left, has famously had numerous pet cats over the years. Invision / AP -
US singer Miley Cyrus has at least three cats. Invision / AP -
British singer Ed Sheeran posted a heartfelt message in 2019 when he lost his first cat, Graham. AFP -
Hilaria Baldwin, left, and Alec Baldwin have six children, with another on the way, as well as two dogs and three cats. Getty / AFP
While dogs remain the preferred household pet, many Americans were keen to have a cat companion since the Covid-19 pandemic. A survey from the ASPCA showed that 87 per cent of homes still house these pets. Those that were relocated were rehomed and given to friends, families and neighbours at a greater rate than shelters or rescues.
Pet owners aged 18-25 flocked to cats more than any other age demographic since the pandemic.
For a third year in a row, the Ragdoll remains the most popular cat breed in the US, according to the The Cat Fanciers’ Association. The Ragdoll is a large, long-tailed cat that is known for its gentle and sociable behaviour.
The ASPCA recommends that cat owners purchase high-quality, properly balanced cat food that contains taurine, an amino acid that is essential for eye and heart health. Owners are also cautioned to keep treats to a minimum. Only 5 to 10 per cent of a cat's diet should consist of treats.
Cats also do not need baths often, but owners should brush them frequently to keep their coats clean and cut down on hairballs.
