It’s International Cat Day 2023—spoil your furry friend with these purrfect products
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We hope you’re ready because today is the most purrfect holiday of them all. Today, August 8th is International Cat Day 2023! If you forgot, or perhaps didn’t know about this joyous occasion, don’t worry—we’re here to give you a primer on this adorable holiday. What’s more, we’re here to share various cat gadgets that we’ve tested and know your cat will absolutely adore. Plus, they'll make your life as a pet parent easier. It's a win-win. Whether you’re looking to get a cat for the first time or are a long-time cat parent and are just looking for ways to spoil your special friend, here are the best products to buy for International Cat Day.
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When is International Cat Day 2023?
International Cat Day is celebrated annually on August 8. This year, it falls on a Tuesday.
What is International Cat Day?
International Cat Day is a celebration that was created in 2002 by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) to raise awareness for cats and spread the word on ways to help and protect them.
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Our favorite cat products that we’ve tested
A cat tree
When it comes to pet products and accessories, few things say "cat" quite like a cat tree. Not only will this nifty piece of furniture give your cats somewhere to play and relax, but it often comes with a scratching post to redirect your cat's claw-filing needs away from your own furniture. One of the best cat trees on Amazon is the Yaheetech Cat Tree Tower Condo thanks to its low price, multiple perches and rope-lined posts for scratching.
A litter robot
If you love your kitty but hate changing their litter box, then you need the Whisker Litter-Robot 4. This is an automatic, all-sizes litter box that will change your cat's waste for you. All you have to do is empty the Whisker's basin once a week. Plus, if you need to monitor your cat's litter, Whisker's app allows you to do so.
A DNA testing kit
Compared to dogs, it tends to be much harder to tell what breed a given cat is. While Basepaws' doesn't claim that its DNA testing can trace your cat's lineage to a purebred line, it can tell you what breeds your cat is most similar to. The testing kit can also tell you what traits your cat has. More importantly, it can let you know your cat's proclivity towards developing certain health issues.
A cat GPS
Tractive's GPS cat tracker is a must-have for cat parents. From free-roaming outdoor cats, to cats who accompany their parents on hikes, to indoor cats who like to bolt for the doors, you’ll worry less when they’re away by being able to track your cat's whereabouts. The Tractive GPS is easy to set up, has real-time location updates and boasts an impressive battery — in our testing, one charge lasted for two weeks.
A cat harness
Most cats seem to dislike going on walks, but it's worth giving a harness a try if you have an outdoor cat. At best, you and your pet will have a fun new activity to do together, and you'll have something to brag about to your friends. At worst, you'll have a funny story to tell your friends about the one time you tried to get your cat in a harness. The best harness you can buy is the one offered by Travel Cat. The True Adventure cat harness comes with a strong, 4ft leash, it's easy to put on and has a sturdy snap clip.
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An automatic cat feeder
For cat parents who can be on the forgetful side — or for cat parents whose fur babies are voracious eaters — there are automatic food bowls galore to excite your pet and make your life easier. Our favorite is the WOpet SmartFeeder because you can schedule up to six feedings per day, you can record a message for your pet, and the feeder boasts a large, 17-cup capacity.
A cat backpack
Some cats like going for walks and seeing the great outdoors. Most cats, assuming they would enjoy being moved from their homes at all, prefer to be carried. So, carrying around your cat in a cat backpack (catpack?) is an interesting option when you want to take your cat with you. Travel Cat's Navigator Cat Backpack is one of the best cat backpacks you can buy thanks to its claw-proof material, breathable mesh fabric and windows for your cat to enjoy exciting views from the security of the backpack.
A cat water fountain
The Catit Water Fountain is great for cats that love clean, running water. Such was the case for Reviewed Executive Editor Kate Ellsworth's cats. They are in love with the water fountain, preferring it over the still water bowls they have used before. Kate herself loves the fountain, too, because it's quiet, easy to use and automatically filters water.
A pet carrier
Most cats seem to hate car rides, so you'll most likely need to bring yours in a carrier. Beyond car rides, there’s no getting around the need for a carrier when it comes to plane and train rides. When shopping for a new carrier, check out the Sleepypod Air, which is the best carrier we've tested. This carrier has excellent air circulation, comes with seatbelt straps and readily expands and contracts to be easily stored or give your feline friend more space.
A cat bed
While it commands a high price, we think the Tuft + Paw Nuzzle cat bed is worth a spot in your home. Cats love sleeping in this plush, faux-fur bed. Its Ultraseude base prevents it from sliding around and its size is perfect — big enough for most cats to sleep comfortably while being small enough to fit in a variety of places in your home.
A cat toy
You can treat your cat to a toy they’ll love like this feather wand from Chewy. It has an average rating of 4.3 stars from over a thousand reviews. Cats love the soft fabric and crinkling sounds that the toys make when they catch them.
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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.
This article originally appeared on Reviewed: International Cat Day 2023: best cat toys and products for kittens
