Celebrating your cat's birthday

To some people the idea of celebrating a cat's birthday might seem eccentric, but more and more pet owners are making this fun ritual a part of their family routine. So what kinds of things can you do to celebrate your own kitty's special day? Anything you want! Your celebration can be as simple or as elaborate as you choose. Maybe you have numerous friends who, like you, love cats. If so, consider throwing your pet a birthday bash and invite your friends to join in the celebration.

Catnip will entertain your cat, who will then be entertaining your guests. Blowing bubbles is fun for cats and kids to do together. Kids blow and cats pop the bubbles! Have everyone bring a cat toy to give Kitty some fun.

Delicious refreshments

Peruse your local bookstore for a cat-treat cookbook beforehand, and make homemade cat treats for your cat and for all of your friends to take home. Use your own favorite cookie recipe to bake treats for your human guests in this same shape, or cut bread into the shape of cats or fish for sandwiches.

Adopted cats

If you adopted your cat from a shelter or rescue group, you may want to celebrate the anniversary of his homecoming instead of his actual birthday.

Special time together

Of course, not all celebrations require a guest list. If what he loves most is a nap on your lap, so be it. Oftentimes, the what and the where matter much less than simply taking the time to spend with your pet. Birthdays can be a great excuse to slow down and make time for those who matter most - be it the people or the animals in our lives.

Whatever date or event you choose to celebrate, use it as a reminder to schedule your cat's annual veterinary exam. Toys and treats may trump flea preventative in your cat's eyes, but there is no greater gift you can offer your pet than good health.