Cats are beloved across continents — lounging in Parisian apartments, sunbathing in Istanbul's alleys, and reigning as royalty in Japanese cat cafés. But while their aloof charm is universal, cat-care customs, attitudes, and even preferred breeds vary widely across cultures.

In honor of International Cat Day on August 8, let’s walk the globe to explore how feline fans in different countries treat their furriest family members.

Whether you run a cattery in Canada, a grooming salon in Singapore, or a boarding facility in Brazil, understanding how cats are cared for around the world can help you better connect with clients, expand your services, and celebrate the wonderfully global world of whiskers.

international traveler holding passport and cat

Egypt: Where Cats Were First Worshipped

Let’s start where it all began — ancient Egypt, where cats were considered sacred. Revered as spiritual guardians and associated with the goddess Bastet, felines were often mummified and even mourned like family members.

Cat Care Today:

  • Modern Egyptians still revere cats, and Cairo’s streets are home to many strays who are generally fed and tolerated by locals.

  • Animal welfare groups in Egypt
    are now working to provide spay/neuter programs and improve conditions for street cats.

Takeaway for pet-care pros: Incorporate educational posts on cat history in your social content — your clients might be surprised to learn where the house cat’s reign began.

Turkey: A Cat Lover’s Paradise

Cats in Turkey — especially Istanbul — are part of public life. Street cats are widely accepted and cared for by communities. You’ll see food bowls on sidewalks and sleeping cats on shop counters or cafe chairs. In fact, the 2016 documentary "Kedi" showcased the city’s rich relationship with its feline residents.

Notable Breeds:

  • Turkish Angora and Turkish Van are both elegant, long-haired breeds known for their grace and playfulness.

Cat Care Culture:

  • Turkish citizens commonly share the responsibility of feeding and looking after stray cats.

  • While not always owned in the Western sense, cats are seen as community members rather than pets.

Pet-care inspiration: Embrace the idea of “community cats” by offering support to TNR (trap-neuter-return) efforts or hosting donation drives for shelters.

Japan: The Land of Cat Cafés and Lucky Charms

Japan is home to the famous “maneki-neko” (beckoning cat figurine) seen in storefronts — a symbol of good luck and prosperity. But beyond superstition, Japan is also where cat culture has become a full-blown industry.

Feline Trends:

  • Cat cafés originated here and are still wildly popular, especially in urban areas where pet ownership is restricted.

  • Japanese pet owners are known for pampering their pets, with many cats sporting outfits, strollers, and even Instagram accounts.

Popular Breeds:

  • Japanese Bobtail (of Hello Kitty fame) is cherished for its playful personality and pom-pom tail.

  • Scottish Fold is also very popular in Japan.

Pet-care ideas: Consider launching cat-themed events or grooming services that include luxurious features like paw balm, facials, or even cat-safe spa days.

two women at a japanese cat cafe

France: The Sophisticated (and Slightly Spoiled) Cat

Cats in France are often seen as independent but adored companions. French pet parents tend to value their cat’s autonomy — allowing them outdoor access while still providing top-tier indoor comfort.

Catitudes:

  • Cats are seen as discerning creatures, with many French people believing cats “choose” their humans.

  • Indoor/outdoor cats are common, though concerns about safety have increased in recent years.

Pet-Care Trends:

  • France has a robust pet insurance market and luxury pet hotels for when parents travel.

  • Cats often eat a mix of commercial and fresh food — think pâté or even bits of roast chicken.

Pro tip: If you serve European clients, highlight health coverage or offer options like gourmet treats or take-home meal plans.

Brazil: A Growing Market for Feline Fans

While Brazil is historically known for its love of dogs, cat ownership has seen a surge in recent years. Urbanization and apartment living have contributed to cats becoming the preferred pet in many cities.

Fun Fact:
Brazil is expected to overtake the U.S. in cat ownership by 2030, according to a report by Euromonitor.

Care Practices:

  • Cats in Brazil are increasingly kept indoors due to concerns about theft, accidents, or disease.

  • Grooming services for cats are becoming more common, especially in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.

Pet-care takeaway: If you serve South American clients, consider bilingual signage and marketing to meet this growing demand in feline-focused services.

couple with a cat and a dog in a Brazilian cafe or bakery

United States: The Kingdom of Catfluencers

In the U.S., cats are often treated like family members — or even royalty. From cat-themed subscription boxes to pet psychics, American pet parents don’t hold back.

Cat Stats:

  • According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), there are more than 94 million pet cats in the U.S. as of 2024.

  • Cat-only veterinary clinics and grooming salons are on the rise, emphasizing low-stress, feline-friendly environments.

Top Breeds:

  • Ragdoll, Maine Coon, and Sphynx cats dominate the popularity charts.

  • Rescue cats still make up the bulk of feline companions, thanks to growing adoption campaigns.

Pet-care pointer: If you cater to U.S. customers, emphasize comfort, safety, and enrichment. Think cat trees, puzzle feeders, and gentle handling practices.

India: Cultural Symbolism Meets Modern Pet Trends

Cats in India have a complex reputation — sometimes viewed with superstition, sometimes adored as symbols of independence and mystery. But with rising urbanization, India is seeing a significant increase in pet cat adoption.

Modern Cat Owners:

  • Younger generations are more open to adopting cats, especially in metro cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore.

  • There’s a growing awareness around spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and quality pet food.

Cultural Note:

  • In some rural areas, black cats are still seen as bad luck — while in others, they’re revered for their mystery and intuition.

Pet-care opportunity: Cultural sensitivity matters. Offering myth-busting content or educational events can help shift attitudes and promote positive care.

United Kingdom: The Original Home of Cat Protection

The UK takes feline welfare seriously. It’s home to Cats Protection, one of the oldest and largest cat charities in the world, and has robust animal welfare legislation.

Cat Care Landscape:

  • Cats are commonly microchipped (and as of 2024, it's mandatory in England for cats over 20 weeks old).

  • Many owners install “catios” or use GPS collars to allow safe outdoor exploration.

Quirky Traits:

  • Brits often let their cats roam, but increasingly use high-tech gadgets like pet cams, smart litter boxes, and automatic feeders.

Idea for businesses: Embrace tech-savvy solutions and consider highlighting your facility’s safety protocols and enrichment tools.

Other Noteworthy Cat Cultures

Russia:
Long-haired breeds like the Siberian Cat are cherished. Cats are often viewed as household protectors — bringing luck and warding off negative energy.

Italy:
Rome is famous for its “cat colonies” living among ancient ruins. Cats are often semi-feral but cared for by local volunteers and cat lovers.

South Korea:
Pet cafés, especially cat cafés, are booming. Cats are seen as calming companions in the fast-paced urban lifestyle.

woman gazing at colony of outdoor cats

Global Takeaways for Pet-Care Businesses

1. Tailor Services for Diverse Clients
Understand that international customers or immigrants may have different expectations for cat care — from grooming frequency to dietary preferences.

2. Celebrate Cat Culture Year-Round
Host International Cat Day events, but also recognize:

  • World Spay Day (February)
  • Black Cat Appreciation Day (August 17)
  • National Cat Day (October 29 in the U.S.)

3. Partner with Cultural Organizations
Consider teaming up with local cultural groups to host bilingual pet care events or education sessions that resonate with your community.

4. Offer Global-Style Amenities
Inspired by Japan? Offer plush heated beds. Influenced by the UK? Promote safe outdoor enclosures. Borrow what works — and make it your own.

5. Use Social Media to Celebrate Global Cats
Share photos and stories
of cats from around the world. Encourage clients to post using an International Cat Day hashtag and tag your business.

loving cat parent holding Persian cat in a bustling pet facility

Final Paws for Thought

Cats may be famously independent, but one thing they seem to agree on worldwide? They deserve the best. And whether they’re curled up on rooftops in Rome or lounging in a luxury salon in Seoul, it’s clear: Cat care is as diverse as the cultures that adore them.

As a pet-care business owner, understanding and celebrating these differences is more than good practice — it’s a chance to grow, connect, and build a truly global community of cat lovers.

Happy International Cat Day — and may your clients’ cats be as healthy, happy, and sassy as ever.

Manage your cat-care busines with ease. Try Revelation Pets free for 14 days!