Celebrate National Cat Lovers Month with Your Furry Friend!
December is National Cat Lovers Month, a purr-fect opportunity to honor our feline companions and support cat welfare!
Cats are beautiful, sassy, and endlessly fascinating. Sure, they can be independent and unpredictable, but that’s only part of the story. Cats can also be shy, affectionate, playful, outgoing, energetic, and downright lovable! Unfortunately, many cats are misunderstood and sometimes mistreated because of the misconception that they’re aloof. The truth? Cats make amazing companions and can bring joy to every home!
To celebrate your furry family member this month, here are some gift ideas for National Cat Lovers Month and the holiday season:
Toys: Treat your furry family member to catnip-filled toys, lightweight balls, puzzles, or tunnels
Comfort: Give your feline companion a cozy bed, scratching post, or heated cat bed
Treats: Give them some tasty treats with lickable wet treats or high-protein biscuits
Grooming: A new brush or a special collar with a name tag is guaranteed to earn you some happy purrs!
Enrichment: Treat your feline friend to a puzzle feeder or a cat water fountain
But beyond gifts, keeping your cat happy and healthy is the best way to show your love. Here are four simple ways to help your cat thrive this month, and all year long:
1. Spay & Neuter for a Healthier Future - Spaying and neutering is one of the best ways to keep cats healthy and prevent overpopulation. Did you know cats can start reproducing as early as five months old? In 2025 alone, HART has adopted or transported over 300 kittens, and the need is still great. Click here to learn more about the importance of spaying and neutering your pets.
Spaying and neutering not only prevents unexpected litters but also protects against certain cancers and infections. HART offers programs to help families who may need financial assistance including:
HARTHelp – Low-cost spay/neuter services for qualifying families in MD, WV, and PA
Macy’s Fund – Free spay/neuter for feral and community cats in Garrett County
Lifesaver – Covers full cost of spay/neuter surgery and rabies vaccination for qualifying Maryland residents
2. Keep Up with Wellness Visits - Even if your cat seems healthy, annual exams are essential. Cats are experts at hiding discomfort, and conditions like arthritis, dental issues, kidney disease, or infections can go unnoticed without a vet’s trained eye.
At our Bredel Clinic, your cat receives the full “VI-purr” treatment, including vaccinations, parasite checks, microchipping, dental exams, and a thorough nose-to-tail health check. Scheduling an appointment not only protects your pet, it also supports HART’s mission, helping rescue and care for homeless animals.
3. Volunteer - HART’s Cattery is full of adorable kittens and cats waiting for their forever homes. Volunteering is a rewarding way to help socialize and prepare cats for adoption while experiencing the joy of helping a once-homeless pet find a loving family. Click here to join our volunteer team!
4. Happy Cats = Happy Home
One of the simplest ways to celebrate National Cat Lovers Month? Spend time with your cat! Despite their independent reputation, cats are social animals who love attention. Play, snuggle, and enjoy quality time! It’s the best gift you can give.
Call the HART Animal Center at 301.387.7729 to schedule your cat’s appointment or learn more about our programs. Together, we can make life purr-fect for cats in our community!