Hug Your Cat Day (June 4)
Hug Your Cat Day is celebrated every year on June 4 and gives cat lovers a reason to slow down and appreciate the bond they share with their pets.
Whether your cat loves affection or just tolerates a quick cuddle, this day is about meeting them where they are, and celebrating the joy they bring.
It’s simple, sweet, and one of the many weird holidays in June.
When is the Holiday?
Hug Your Cat Day is celebrated annually on June 4. It’s not an official holiday, but it’s widely embraced by cat lovers who don’t need much of an excuse to spoil their feline friends.
Who Invented It?
No one knows for sure who came up with the quirky holiday.
It likely started online or through a pet-focused awareness campaign, and cat lovers ran with it. Like most great things on the internet, its origin is unclear, but the sentiment stuck.
The History of Hugging Cats
Humans and cats have been living together for thousands of years. In ancient Egypt, cats were seen as protectors, even mummified and honored with statues.
In Norse mythology, the goddess Freyja rode in a chariot pulled by cats.
Over time, cats shifted from spiritual symbols to beloved housemates, but their mysterious, independent vibe never really changed.
The holiday might not have roots in ancient tradition, but our affection for cats certainly does.
Top 5 Interesting Facts About Hug Your Cat Day
- It’s not just for cat owners. Many shelters use June 4 to highlight adoptable cats and share care tips.
- Cats may not love hugs, but they love attention. Each cat has a preferred way to bond, whether it’s lap time, grooming, or following you into the bathroom.
- Purring has therapeutic effects. Studies show a cat’s purr can reduce stress and even promote healing in bones and muscles.
- Most cats prefer being held a certain way. Over-the-shoulder or sitting in your lap often works better than a tight hug.
- There are over 600 million domestic cats worldwide. That’s a lot of potential hugs, and a lot of opinions on when and how they should happen.
Activities to Celebrate
Offer a gentle hug (if your cat’s into it). Not all cats enjoy being picked up, so let yours lead. Some might lean into a shoulder cuddle; others may prefer head-butts or curling up next to you.
Have an extended play session. Pull out a feather wand, crinkly tunnel, or laser pointer and let your cat chase, pounce, and stretch. Bonus points if you try a new toy they haven’t seen before.
Make them a cozy new nap spot. Grab a cardboard box, soft blanket, or even an old sweater and set up a quiet spot by the window.
Groom them slowly. If your cat enjoys brushing, turn it into a longer session. Many cats find grooming soothing, and it’s a good chance to check in on their coat and skin.
Treat them (just a little). A few favorite snacks or even a taste of tuna makes the day feel special.
Try cat massage. Yes, it’s a thing, gentle ear rubs, slow strokes down the spine, or light chin scratches can help a cat relax.
Visit a cat café or adopt. If you don’t have a cat, Hug Your Cat Day is a great time to visit a café or consider adopting from a local shelter.
**This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and a participant in other affiliate programs, I earn a commission on qualifying purchases.**
Links to Resources
Looking for more ways to enjoy the holiday? These crafts, activities, and cat care ideas are all worth checking out:
Cat coloring pages – A cute mix of realistic and cartoon-style cats to color, great for both kids and adults.
Cat perler beads – Over 50 easy patterns for cat-themed bead art. Perfect screen-free craft for older kids or a chill afternoon activity.
Cat mandala coloring pages – Intricate designs for older kids and adults who want something a little more detailed (and relaxing).
Cat brush – A simple tool to make grooming easier for both you and your cat. Great for long-haired cats or those who shed a lot.
Cat spiral spring toy – A colorful spinning toy that encourages swatting, pouncing, and solo play. Keeps indoor cats active and entertained.
Related Holidays
- International Cat Day (August 8th) – A global celebration dedicated to appreciating cats of all kinds—think of it as the bigger, more official cousin to Hug Your Cat Day.
- National Answer Your Cat’s Questions Day (January 22nd) – A tongue-in-cheek holiday that encourages you to finally explain all those weird human behaviors your cat’s been silently judging.
- National Pets in Film Day (June 19th) – A great excuse to rewatch The Aristocats, Puss in Boots, or any movie where pets steal the show.
- National Love Your Pet Day (February 20th) – Whether you’ve got cats, dogs, birds, or bunnies, this one’s about appreciating the unconditional love they give every day.
- National Dress Up Your Pet Day (January 14th) – Not every cat will tolerate a costume, but the brave few who do are fashion icons on this delightfully silly day.
- National Dog Day (August 26th) – While this day celebrates our canine companions, most cat lovers will admit their dog-adjacent pets deserve a little shoutout too.
- International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day (February 23rd) – OK, this one’s for dogs—but if you’ve got a food-motivated cat, you know they’ll try to crash the celebration anyway.
- National Take Your Dog to Work Day (Friday after Father’s Day) – Not cat-specific, but a gentle reminder that your cat already thinks your home office is their territory.
Pin it!
Share this post about Hug Your Cat Day on Pinterest!
