Happy National Kitten Day!

Kittens are little bundles of joy, with a playfulness and curiosity that brings happiness to people all over. As such, every year, July 10th celebrates National Kitten Day – a day dedicated to all these furballs. As we celebrate National Kitten Day, however, it’s important to remember that many of these furry friends are stuck in shelters, waiting for a loving home.

Why We Love Kittens

Kittens are simply lovely. Here are a few reasons why they bring so much joy into our lives:

• Playful and Fun

Kittens love to play. Watching them chase toys, pounce on invisible prey, and wrestle with each other can be endlessly entertaining.

• Loving Companions

Kittens quickly bond with their humans. Their soft purrs, gentle kneading, and warm snuggles offer comfort and love.

• Stress Relievers

Spending time with kittens can help reduce stress and anxiety. Their playful nature and loving presence can boost your mood.

Kittens in Shelters Need Our Help

Even though kittens are adorable, many end up in shelters for various reasons like being abandoned or lost. The reality is tough for these little ones. According to the ASPCA, approximately 3.2 million cats enter U.S. animal shelters every year, with kittens making up a significant portion of this number. Here are some things to consider:

• Overcrowding

Shelters often get overwhelmed with too many kittens, especially during "kitten season." This can make it hard for each kitten to find a home.

• Health Challenges

Kittens in shelters might not get all the care they need. Close quarters and stress can make them more prone to illnesses.

• Limited Time

Unfortunately, not all shelters can keep kittens forever. Some may face euthanasia if they aren’t adopted in time.

Cat Allergies and Kittens in Shelters

Cat allergies are a common reason why kittens are returned to shelters. About 11% of cats end up back in shelters because their owners are allergic, according to the ASPCA. With 3.2 million cats in shelters across the country each year, that’s over 350,000 felines surrendered due to cat allergies. This number doesn’t even include the cats that are abandoned on the streets. In addition, cat allergies were the second most common reason for cat relinquishment, right after having too many cats in the house.

If you love cats but suffer from cat allergies, consider using Pacagen’s Cat Allergen Neutralizing Spray. It can neutralize up to 98% of allergens, making it easier to live with your kitten without sneezing and itching.

How You Can Help

Consider adopting from shelters and practicing responsible pet care to make a difference for these kittens. Here’s how:

• Adopt, Don’t Shop

If you’re considering getting a kitten, check out local shelters and rescue groups. Adopting from a shelter helps give a kitten a new lease on life.

• Spay and Neuter

This is crucial to prevent overpopulation. Spaying and neutering your pets can help reduce the number of unwanted kittens.

• Foster Kittens

If you can’t adopt permanently, think about fostering. This gives kittens a safe place to grow until they find a forever home.

• Support Shelters

Donate money, supplies, or your time to local shelters. Every little bit helps provide care for the kittens waiting for homes.

Keeping Your Kitten Healthy

Whether you’re adopting a new kitten or already have one, keeping them healthy is essential. Here are some simple tips:

• Regular Vet Visits

Take your kitten to the vet regularly. Vaccinations, check-ups, and parasite control are important for their health.

• Proper Diet

Feed your kitten a high-quality diet suitable for their age. Good nutrition supports their growth and health.

• Safe Home

Make sure your home is kitten-proofed. Provide toys, scratching posts, and safe places for them to explore and play.

Celebrate and Support Kittens

On this National Kitten Day, let's do more than just celebrate how cute kittens are. With approximately 3.2 million cats entering U.S. animal shelters each year, many of whom are kittens, our collective efforts can truly make a difference. By adopting, fostering, supporting shelters, and ensuring proper health care, we can make a big impact in their lives. Let’s celebrate kittens by giving them the love and homes they deserve!