Meow there, fellow feline enthusiasts! Today is a special day dedicated to our whiskered companions—International Rescue Cat Day. Whether you're a seasoned cat parent, considering adopting a catteroo, or simply someone who appreciates the majestic presence of a catster, today is the perfect opportunity to make a difference in the lives of these wonderful creatures.
Shelters are brimming with adorable cattos awaiting their forever homes. Some have been abandoned, others were born as strays, and many are overlooked due to misconceptions or the colour of their fur. Let's embark on a journey to explore how adoption, fostering, volunteering, and donating can transform lives—not just for the cats, but for you as well!
While we look at International Rescue Cat Day, I’ve included cat rescue stories from around the world of heroic cats lest we for one minute forget about how brave, protective and remarkable beings they are and how lucky we are to have them in our homes and homes.
Scarlett: The Mother Who Walked Through Fire (March 30, 1996, Brooklyn, New York, USA)
The fire raged, swallowing the Brooklyn garage in flames, turning everything to smoke and cinders. Inside, a young calico cat named Scarlett had just one thought: her five tiny kittens.
She didn't hesitate.
Again and again, she ran into the fire, each time emerging with a kitten clutched in her jaws. By the time she saved the last one, her fur was scorched, her whiskers burned away, and her delicate paws raw from the heat. Her eyes were swollen shut, but before collapsing, she did something remarkable—she nudged each kitten with her nose, counting them, making sure they were all there.
Firefighter David Giannelli, who had witnessed the entire act, rushed them all to safety. They were taken in by North Shore Animal League, and Scarlett’s story soon spread across the world. People everywhere were moved by the sheer courage and love of a mother cat.
Thousands offered to adopt her and her kittens, and in the end, Scarlett found a home where she was cherished for the rest of her life. She remains a symbol of selfless love, resilience, and the incredible strength of animals.
🔥 Scarlett didn’t just survive—she became a legend. A mother’s love, measured not in words, but in acts of bravery.
Why Adopting a Rescue Cat Saves Lives (Including Yours!)
• Black cats a.k.a., mini panthers? Too "unlucky." (Meanwhile, in Japan, they’re considered symbols of prosperity—your lucky charm in feline form.)
• Adult and senior cats? Not "cute" enough. (In reality, they already know the rules of the game: litter boxes, scratching posts, and boundaries. No need to train from scratch!)
• Shy cats? Too quiet. (Translation: they’re mysterious introverts waiting for the right human to show their goofy side.)
Every catster in a shelter has a story before you meet them. Some were abandoned. Some were born on the streets. Others had families but were given up due to circumstances beyond their control. None of them deserved to be discarded—but all of them deserve a second chance.
When you adopt, you’re not just changing a cat’s life—you’re changing your own. You gain a companion who will judge you from high-up perches, disrupt your Zoom calls, and somehow always know when you need a cuddle.
And honestly—who wouldn’t want a mini panther patrolling their house?
How to Find the Right Rescue Cat for You – A Matchmaking Guide
Adopting a rescue cat is a life-changing experience—but how do you find the right feline for you? Part of the cat adoption process is to start by considering your lifestyle. High-energy kitten or laid-back senior? Confident explorer or a shy introvert? Every cat has a unique personality, and shelters can help match you with the right fit.
Set your home up for success: Create a quiet, cosy space with food, water, a litter box, and a comfy hiding spot. Patience is key—your new cat needs time to adjust! If you already have pets, introduce them slowly and let your rescue settle in at their own pace.
Not ready for a lifelong commitment? Fostering a cat is a great way to help a shelter cat in need while seeing if pet parenthood is right for you.
Where to start?
Visit local shelters, attend adoption days, or check online pet rescue groups. Your perfect feline friend is waiting—you just have to meet them!
Meet Tara: The Heroic Cat Who Took Down a Dog (and Won Awards for It!)
It was an ordinary afternoon in Bakersfield, California in May of 2014, until four-year-old Jeremy Triantafilo’s peaceful day was shattered by a sudden attack.
A neighbour’s dog broke loose, lunging at the child, biting his leg, and dragging him off his bike.
Before anyone could react, Tara—the family’s unassuming tabby cat—became a warrior.
She launched herself at the dog, body-slamming it with full force and chasing it off the property before circling back to check on Jeremy. The entire incident was caught on the family's security cameras, and within days, the footage had gone viral worldwide.
Tara wasn’t just a hero to her family—she became a global sensation. She shattered stereotypes about cats being aloof, proved that felines can be fiercely protective, and, in a move that stunned the world, became the first cat in history to win a “Hero Dog” award. In addition to which, In September 2014, Tara received the Blue Tiger Award, an accolade typically reserved for military service dogs, highlighting the extraordinary nature of her actions
From national television appearances to a dedicated “Tara the Hero Cat” Day in Bakersfield, she went from a regular house cat to a living legend.
Move Over, Hollywood—This Rescue Cat Has More Trophies Than an EGOT Winner!
She got so many awards that it's akin to hoo-man getting an EGOT! (What, you may ask? an acronym for winning all four major entertainment awards: Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony. Followed by who? Winners include John Legend, Jennifer Hudson, Whoopi Goldberg and Elton John)
Tara's truly amazing story not only showcases the profound bond between humans and their feline companions but also challenges the stereotypical perceptions of cats, proving that they, too, can perform acts of remarkable bravery.
I can only imagine that after reading this heroic tale you are feeling a sudden and profound need for a cat this International Rescue Cat Day! Let’s get back to talking about the best way to make that happen and all the aspects you need to consider in your feline quest.
Adopting a Rescue Cat? Everything You Need to Know
Before you rush to the nearest shelter to find your purr-fect match, it's essential to consider the responsibilities that come with cat parenthood.
How Much Does a Cat Really Cost? A Budget Fit for Cat Kings and Queens
Cats are relatively low-maintenance—until they’re not. Make sure you budget for these essentials, because your feline overlord expects only the best.
• Tick and flea treatment – Because nothing ruins a cat’s royal status faster than an uninvited flea circus.
• Deworming – No one wants a surprise parasite party. Least of all, your cat.
• Vaccinations – Essential for keeping your cat healthy and judgmental for years to come.
• Annual vet check-ups – Because even if your cat seems fine, they deserve a professional to confirm their superiority.
• Pet insurance – Cats are agile ninjas, but somehow still manage to get themselves into absurdly expensive trouble.
• High-quality food and Treats – Because turning their nose up at budget kibble is practically a sport and going without treats, a sin.
• Litter and litter trays – If you don’t provide enough, your cat will get creative with their bathroom locations.
• Scratching posts and toys – Either you buy a scratching post, or your couch becomes the scratching post.
• Sterilisation – Less drama, fewer unexpected kittens, and a much happier, healthier cat. Win-win.
• And, of course, catnip – Because a catnip shortage is simply unacceptable.
Proper budgeting means a healthy, happy cat—and fewer "surprise expenses" that drain your wallet faster than a cat zooming at 3 AM.
Stable Homes, Happy Cats: Why Your Rescue Cat Needs Routine
Cats thrive in stable environments. If you're planning a move or anticipate significant life changes, consider how a new cat will fit into your future. Ensure your living situation allows pets because studies have shown that pet relinquishment is often linked to housing instability.
Indeed, a 2020 survey by the ASPCA revealed that 29% of pet surrenders occur due to moving-related issues, such as landlords not allowing pets or a lack of pet-friendly housing options. Ensuring your home is secure and cat-friendly before adopting can prevent unnecessary rehoming and stress for both you and your new feline bestie.
The Territory Tango: Why Stability Matters to Your Cat
Cats are highly territorial animals, and frequent relocations or changes in their environment can lead to stress-related illnesses, such as feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC), a painful bladder condition that has been linked to anxiety and instability. A consistent, familiar home setting significantly reduces stress in cats, allowing them to feel safe, confident, and to more easily bond with their parents.
The same applies to any other pets living in the home. Yip, it’s best to call a meeting with the household pets to determine how best to welcome the new arrival. I say this in all seriousness!
Kidz & Catz: Teaching Gentle Love (and Avoiding Chaos!)
If you have children, it’s crucial to teach them how to interact with cats respectfully. Unlike dogs, who often thrive on rough-and-tumble play, cats require gentleness and patience.
• No tail-pulling, grabbing, or chasing—cats hate that, and it can lead to bites or scratches.
• Teach kids about body language: A flicking tail? They’re annoyed. Flattened ears? They’re scared. Slow blinks? That’s cat-speak for “I love you.”
• Set boundaries: A cat needs safe spaces where they can retreat when they want alone time.
• If your child is used to dogs, help them understand the key differences. Cats don’t obey commands like "sit" or "stay," they may take time to warm up, and they often show affection in subtler ways.
Meet Pudding: The Rescue Cat Who Saved His Human from a Seizure
Adopting a cat can sometimes lead to unexpected blessings, as in the case of Amy Jung and her cat, Pudding.
In 2012, Amy Jung and her son Ethan visited an animal shelter in Wisconsin, USA, with no intention of adopting a pet. However, they were charmed by a large orange and white cat named Pudding and decided to bring him home.
That very night, Jung, who has diabetes, suffered a diabetic seizure in her sleep. Pudding sprang into action, nudging and biting her until she briefly regained consciousness. When she couldn't fully wake up, Pudding dashed into Ethan's room and pounced on him until he woke up and called for medical assistance.
Jung believes that without Pudding's intervention, she might not have survived the night. This remarkable story highlights how adopting a rescue cat can sometimes lead to them rescuing you in return. (Source: ABC News)
Can Cats Be Service Animals? The Surprising Truth
Cats are not typically recognised as service animals under the Promotion of Equality, Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act (PEPUDA), which primarily designates dogs for such roles. However, there are no laws in South Africa against cats functioning as service animals. They just do not have the legal status as service animals that dogs do.
Despite this lack of recognition, there have been instances where cats have demonstrated the ability to alert or respond to medical emergencies, including seizures and diabetic episodes, just like Pudding did.
Fostering a Rescue Cat: The Best Way to Help Shelters
If your heart longs for a cat but your lifestyle doesn’t allow for a lifelong commitment, fostering is the perfect middle ground. You provide a safe, loving space for a cat in transition, helping them heal and trust again while freeing up room in shelters for others in need.
Whether it’s a kitten needing round-the-clock care, a shy cat learning to trust, or a senior feline who deserves comfort, fostering gives them the best chance at finding a forever home.
Saying goodbye is always hard, but knowing you’ve changed a cat’s life? Completely worth it. And let’s be honest—there’s always a chance your foster will become your forever cat (hello, foster fail).
Why It’s the Best Gift You Can Give
Flexibility
Fostering a rescue cat gives you all the joys of cat companionship without the lifelong commitment. Whether you foster for weeks or months, you’re making an incredible difference.
Life-Saving
Every time you foster a cat, you’re not just helping that cat—you’re also freeing up space in the shelter, allowing another cat to be rescued. It’s a ripple effect of love!
Unparalleled Kitty Love
A foster cat learns to trust humans in your care, and in return, you get head boops, slow blinks, biscuit-making paws, and all the adorable quirks that make cats so irresistible.
Personal Fulfilment
here’s nothing quite like watching a scared, unsure cat blossom into a confident, loving companion—all because of you.
Most shelters offer support for foster carers, covering veterinary expenses, food, litter, and supplies, so you’re never alone in this journey. It’s a beautiful collaboration that benefits everyone involved—especially the cat, who gets to experience kindness, warmth, and love instead of a cage.
If you can’t adopt but still want to make a world of difference, fostering could be the best decision you ever make—for the cats, and for your heart.
Crimean Tom: The Forgotten War Hero with Whiskers of Fortune
In the bitter winter of 1854, during the Crimean War, British and French troops laid siege to Sevastopol. Smoke choked the air, and hunger gnawed at the soldiers as food supplies dwindled. Yet, amidst the devastation, a grey tabby with knowing eyes and a curiously full belly padded through the ruins.
Intrigued, the starving troops followed the cat—later named Crimean Tom—as he slipped through a crumbling wall. Crawling after him, their eyes adjusted to a stunning sight: a hidden stockpile of grain, untouched by war.
Tom had unknowingly led them to salvation. Spirits lifted, the soldiers gathered food, their hunger finally eased. Recognized as a war hero, Tom was brought back to England, where he lived out his days in warmth and comfort—far from the battlefield’s echoes.
International Rescue Cat Day: Five Ways to Make a Difference Today
There are numerous ways to get involved and make a positive impact on this special day. Whether you open your home to a rescue cat, volunteer at a local shelter, or donate essential supplies like food, litter, and parasite prevention, every effort helps improve the lives of cats in need and supports the vital work of animal rescue organisations.
1. Adopt a Rescue Cat: It's the Best Decision You’ll Ever Make
Visit your local shelter and consider giving a cat a forever home. Whether it's a playful kitten or a serene senior, the benefits of adopting a cat mean there's a feline friend waiting to enrich your life.
2. Donate to a Shelter: Help More Cats Find Homes
Not everyone can adopt, but anyone can help. Shelters always need donations, and trust us—these cats have a wishlist longer than a toddler before Christmas.
• Financial support for medical care – Because even the toughest street cat needs a vet, not just "a nap and positive thinking."
• Food and litter – Hungry cats aren’t known for their patience, and let’s just say, litter boxes don’t clean themselves.
• Parasite prevention treatments – Fleas and worms are NOT the kind of roommates we want these cats to have.
• Old blankets – Nothing says “you’re safe now” like a warm, cosy blanket to snuggle into.
• Cleaning equipment – Because fur, litter, and hairballs don’t just magically disappear (unfortunately).
• Volunteer time – Some of these cats require staff to cater to their every whim. That staff? Could be you.
Even small contributions make a huge difference—to the shelters, to the staff, and most importantly, to the cats plotting world domination from their cosy new beds.
3. Want to Help Shelter Cats? Here’s Why Volunteering is Purr-fect
If bringing a cat home isn’t in the cards, consider offering your time to a local animal shelter. Shelters always need volunteers to help with tasks such as cleaning cages, socialising with the cats, assisting potential adopters, and even helping with fundraising events.
Many cats enter shelters scared or timid, and spending time with volunteers helps them adjust to human interaction, making them more adoptable.
4. How You Can Raise Awareness (In Just 5 Minutes!)
Raising awareness about cat adoption is one of the easiest yet most impactful things you can do. Share rescue stories, educate others about the myths surrounding black cats, and use your social media platforms to encourage others to adopt rather than shop for pets. Even just resharing a local shelter’s post about available cats can help a feline find a forever home.
5. Pamper Your Own Rescue Cat Today!
If you already have a rescue cat in your life, today is a great excuse to spoil them a little extra. Whether it’s a new toy, some special treats, an extra-long cuddle session, or just some uninterrupted lap time, your feline friend will appreciate the attention.
And remember, a well-timed catnip treat is always a welcome surprise—because, let’s face it, no cat parent can ignore their unspoken obligation to keep that catnip supply chain running smoothly and delivering a consistent flow of catnip.
Unsinkable Sam: The Cat Who Survived 3 Shipwrecks and Lived to Tell the Tail
War is cruel, the sea merciless, and survival never guaranteed. But for one extraordinary feline, fate had other plans.
In May 1941, aboard the German battleship Bismarck, a black-and-white cat named Oscar paced the decks as cannons roared. When the Bismarck met its fiery end, sinking beneath the waves, over 2,000 men perished—but Oscar, against all odds, was found clinging to a floating plank.
Rescued by the British HMS Cossack, he earned a new home, a new crew, and a new name—Unsinkable Sam. But fate wasn’t finished with him. When Cossack was struck months later, Sam was plucked from the wreckage once again, fur slick with seawater, spirit unbroken.
Transferred to HMS Ark Royal, he became the ship’s lucky charm—until Ark Royal, too, was torpedoed. As the mighty vessel sank, Sam, ever defiant, waited to be saved once more.
Three sinkings. Three rescues. A survivor like no other.
Deemed too valuable (or too supernatural) to risk at sea again, Sam retired to a Belfast sailor’s home, where he spent his final years in warmth and safety—far from the howling winds of war.
The Final Pawspective: It's Time to Make a Difference!
We read about Scarlett’s love, Tara’s loyalty, and thousands of shelter cats waiting for their hero. But the truth is—rescue cats don’t need capes. They just need someone to believe in them.
Right now, in a shelter near you, there’s a cat who has been waiting for days, weeks, maybe months. Maybe they’re shy, maybe they’re a little older, maybe they just haven’t had their moment to shine.
Could you be the hero who gives them that moment?
Ready to Change a Cat’s Life? Here’s What You Can Do Right Now
• Visit a shelter—even if you don’t adopt, you’ll spread awareness.
• Foster if you can’t commit—because even a temporary home can save a life.
• Share this article & talk about adoption—because the more people who know, the more cats find homes.
And if you already have a rescue cat? Tell their story. Because behind every adopted cat is a tale worth sharing, and maybe—just maybe—someone else will be inspired to give another cat a second chance.
Because in the end, we don’t rescue cats. They rescue us.
And if you already have a cat… well, it’s time to hand over some catnip and offer your feline overlord a well-deserved tribute.
Here's Where You Start:
https://www.infurmation.co.za/animal-welfare-organisations/