08 August,2025 08:25 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish Kamble
Sahil Shah with his cat, Kurkure. Pic Courtesy/Sahil Shah; (right) Experts suggest adopting cats in pairs
Leave Albert Einstein, Taylor Swift, Salvador Dali and Erwin Schrödinger in a room, and you'd reckon it would make for an awkward conversation. We'd say they'd do just alright, striking up a heart-to-heart about Einstein's tabby Tiger, Taylor's calico cat Olivia, Dali's ocelot Babau and Schrödinger's⦠well that remains to be seen. This International Cat Day, we reached out to two city-based cat parents who'd give anything to be in that room. Here's what they had to say.
Meet my cat: Kurkure. The quirky name caught on because he is orange and looks like a snack. He is four years old and the most loving boy out there but also very naughty.
My parenting mantra: Cats sleep most of the time. They show love when they want to, and clean up after themselves. They're the best roommates, ever. I'd say being a cat parent is like playing a good boss battle in a video game - once you learn all the moves, you are sorted.
Kurkure taught me how to: Sleep. Sit and stare at birds. Sleep again. Life is too short to be worried about anything.
Adopt a cat because: A cat is genuinely the most underrated pet to have. They cuddle, they love, they meow with joy. It's like a dog without the walks. An introvert's best roommate and an extrovert's best tenant.
Meet my cat: Oscar. He's a gentleman with a sassy side. The most kind and understanding cat I have ever met.
My parenting mantra: Going in with the approach that you know nothing helps a lot. Constantly take feedback and observe the cat's body language. Let the cat teach you how they want to be treated and handled.
Oscar taught me how to: Be calmer and not take life so seriously. To enjoy the smaller things like good food, a walk, and time with loved ones. My cat loves small joys like his treats and training sessions a lot.
Adopt a cat because: It's a major misconception that cats are aloof and not affectionate. Just because affection looks different doesn't mean it's not there. We are constantly comparing cats with dogs, and humans, but we need to love them for who they are.
Head to these events in the city to celebrate the occasion with feline company
Meet and greet
Stroll through the streets of Fort and interact with its feline residents in the company of cat lovers. The day will end at the Sarmaya Arts Foundation with an artistic exploration of feline representation in Indian art.
ON August 8; 5 pm to 6.30 pm
AT Sarmaya Arts Foundation, Lawrence & Mayo Building, Dr Dadabhai Naoroji Road.
LOG ON TO urbanaut.app
ENTRY RSVP mandatory
Safety first
Pounce on the opportunity to get a free shot of anti-rabies vaccine for your furry friend by the Feline Club of India. Every good kitty who shows up leaves with a little treat and goodies.
ON August 8
AT Venues across Malad, Andheri, Gamdevi and Airoli.
LOG ON TO @felineclubofindia
Paint with meow
Brushes are passe. At this paint and swap session, cats with a knack for art will use their paws to ready the canvas for a masterpiece. Paint around their creations, and you have a memorable work of art to show off. Come as you are or bring your ailurophile buddies along.
ON August 9; 12 pm to 2 pm
AT Cat Café Studio, Aram Nagar Part 1, Versova.
LOG ON TO catcafestudiio.com
ENTRY Rs 499 (includes supplies)
Before you adopt:
1) Keep an open heart: Every cat is unique. If you prefer a certain age, colour, or personality, be open to the unexpected, because you never know which cat might steal your heart.
2) Adopt in pairs: Cats are sociable and often thrive with a companion. Adopting two cats means they keep each other company, especially when you are away.
3) Lifestyle and routine: Cats need proper food, clean water, a tidy litter box, and a healthy amount of playtime and cuddles. They are very adaptable creatures; all you need is to have some patience.
After you adopt:
1) Safe, sturdy carrier: For any vet visits, travel, or emergencies.
2) Essentials: Food/water bowls and a litter box
3) Quality food: Provide both dry and wet food for balanced nutrition.
4) Scratch pads: Keep them active and entertained.
5) Check for hazards: Store away toxic cleaners, detergents, or plants.
6) Regular vet visits: Stay on top of vaccinations, deworming, and flea control.
7) Grooming sessions: Weekly brushing, nail clipping, and occasional baths (only if needed).
8) Basic medication: Ask your vet to show you how to give syrups, tablets, or drops.
Information courtesy: Cat Café Studio
