10 Ways to Spoil Your Cat, Via a Vet

There’s something truly special about having a pet, especially a cat. They’re not just animals you take care of, they become part of your daily routine, your quiet moments and your happiest memories. In fact, having a cat is one of life’s greatest joys. When you bring a cat into your home, they quickly become part of your family. From their quirky habits and sassy meows to the way they curl up next to you after a long day, cats just have a way of stealing your heart.

So, it makes sense that if you have a cat, you want to celebrate them any chance you get. That’s why National Cat Day is a great excuse to make them feel extra loved and adored. Plus, celebrating your cat not only strengthens the bond you share, but also reminds you to appreciate the unique personality and companionship that only a cat can offer.

So, whether you’re already a proud cat parent or you’ve just adopted a cat and are looking for ways to give your furry friend some extra love or find ways you can spoil them for National Cat Day, you’ll want to check out all our ideas below. Some are simple, and some are more extravagant, but they will all make your cat feel like the royalty they truly are.

When is National Cat Day?

Mark your calendar because National Cat Day is approaching! This day happens once a year in the fall. If you have a cat and want to participate in the fun holiday, it takes place at the end of October on Wednesday, October 29.

What is National Cat Day?

National Cat Day is all about honoring our feline companions and recognizing the special place they hold in your heart. It was founded in 2005 by animal welfare advocate Colleen Paige to raise awareness about the number of cats in shelters in need of loving homes and to encourage adoption.

Today, National Cat Day is also a chance for cat lovers everywhere to celebrate the happiness these amazing animals bring into people’s lives. Whether your cat is playful and wild or calm and cuddly, the day is about making them feel extra loved and cherished.

10 Ways to Spoil Your Cat On National Cat Day, According To a Vet

A cat getting extra attention on National Cat Day.

A lot of us look to to holidays like National Cat Day to spoil our cats. If you need a few suggestsions how you can do that, here are a few things that will help you make your cat feel really special.

Spend More Time with Your Cat

The one thing that your pet wants, more than anything you can buy to spoil him or her, is your time. In fact, a 2017 study of shelter cats and those pets raised in a home showed that pets respond to interactions with their family more than with any toy or other method you could use to spoil them. So, give your cat the gift of your attention. You can spend more time with them by doing things like brushing them, rubbing them under their chin, or playing games with them.

Add a Cardboard Scratching Post To Your Home

When it comes to spoiling your cat for National Cat Day, this is one option. You can buy a scratching post, or you can make one yourself. While creating one may sound hard, it’s actually pretty simple. Just give your cat a piece of cardboard with a piece of carpet stapled down on it. They can then use it burn up their energy when you are not home.

Offer Them Fish

There are numerous studies showing the value of whole food when fed to cats. For instance, cats are much better off physically and mentally if fed a whole food die. However, if you don’t wnat to go that route and spoil them with an entire meal, you can still give them dry cat food and then make it special by putting canned sardines, tuna, or fresh fish on top of it. These types of fish are all a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which all cats need for healthy joints, healthy skin and to maintain a healthy heart and brain. But don’t go overboard. Remember, a cat should only weighs about 10 pounds, so only give them 2 or 3 ounces at a feeding.

Install Climbing Shelves

This is something any cat owner can do if they want to make their home more cat-friendly. Climbing shelves are a great option because they provide cats with much-needed exercise and mental stimulation. Plus, they come in a variety of colors and designs, making them easy to match your home’s aesthetic. If you live in an apartment or are renting, there are even removable options that won’t damage your walls, so your cat can climb, perch and play without compromising your space.

Give Them Healthy Treats

A great treat to spoil your cat with on National Cat Day or any other day is fresh liver. You can take fresh liver and cut it up into chunks, then cook it in an air fryer for about 10 minutes. Note: You still want the chunks to be moist inside, but the outside needs to be dry so you can handle them. These treats are perfect for cats because they do not have any preservatives, colors or artificial flavors.

Buy a New Catnip Toy

If you’re looking for a budget-frindly idea, this is a good option. Plus, most cats love catnip toys, and they’re an easy way to keep your furry friend entertained and stimulated. Spoiling your cat with a new toy on National Cat Day shows them a little extra love without breaking the bank.

Invest In a Cat Water Fountain

If you don’t have a water fountain for your cat yet, this might be the most important upgrade you can make to improve their quality of life. Cats are naturally drawn to running water, so a fountain doesn’t just make them feel spoiled, it encourages them to drink more, which is vital for their health.

Most cats, especially those who eat dry food, don’t get enough moisture in their diet. Since cats evolved in desert environments, they instinctively rely on food for hydration and often don’t drink much on their own. This can lead to chronic, low-level dehydration, a key contributor to kidney disease, one of the most common and heartbreaking causes of death in senior cats.

DIY a “Hide Box”

A hide box is a small, enclosed space where your cat can retreat to feel safe, secure and relaxed. It mimics the natural instinct cats have to seek out cozy, sheltered spots, especially when they’re feeling stressed or just want some alone time. The best part is, you don’t have to spend a lot to give your cat this comfort. In fact, a simple cardboard box with a hole cut for an entrance can make your cat just as happy. It’s a budget-friendly way to spoil your pet for National Cat Day and support their emotional well-being at the same time.

Get a Cat Wheel

Want a bigger idea to spoil your cat with? Seeing how obesity is a serious health issue with cats, if you have the space, a cat wheel is a great way for your feline to get exercise. Some cats will take time to get used to the wheel so your cat may need some training, but once they get used to the wheel, it will turn into one of their favorite toys.

Build a Catio

Perhaps one of the most over-the-top and best ways you can spoil your cat for National Cat Day is to build them a Catio. A Catio is an enclosed outdoor space that allows your cat to safely enjoy the sights, sounds and fresh air of the outdoors without the dangers that come with roaming freely. It gives your cat the chance to experience nature while staying protected from cars, dogs, wildlife and other potential threats. Even if you cannot manage this for National Cat Day, you can add it to your pets bucket list!

Sources:

Vitale Shreve KR, Mehrkam LR, Udell MAR. Social interaction, food, scent or toys? A formal assessment of domestic pet and shelter cat (Felis silvestris catus) preferences.

Delgado M, Dantas LMS. Feeding Cats for Optimal Mental and Behavioral Well-Being. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract.

Van der Leij WJR, Selman LDAM, Vernooij JCM, Vinke CM. The effect of a hiding box on stress levels and body weight in Dutch shelter cats; a randomized controlled trial.

This story was originally reported by Parade Pets on Oct 29, 2025, where it first appeared in the Cats section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.