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Actress Shailene Woodley smiles while cuddling her black rescue cat close to her chest, promoting the Mars and Calm pet adoption campaign.


Why Adopting a Cat Can Change Two Lives

Ever notice how your cat seems to know just when you need a cuddle or a purr-filled moment of peace? It's not just in your head—that special bond you share with your feline friend is a powerful force for mental wellbeing. A recent global survey commissioned by Mars and the mental health app Calm found that a huge 83% of pet owners say their pet has improved their mental wellbeing
and 73% say their pet encourages them to stop overthinking or worrying.1

A Star Who Knows the Feeling 

Even Hollywood stars know the feeling! Award-winning actor Shailene Woodley, known for her roles in "Big Little Lies" and other hits, is a self-proclaimed rescue cat mum.
"My rescue cats transformed my world," she says. "They bring me peace when I'm overwhelmed with a busy filming schedule, and every day, they remind me to breathe, slow down and live in the moment."
Shailene wants more people to see that adopting a cat isn't just an act of compassion for an animal; it can also be an act of care for yourself. As she says about her two cats, Bear and Pharrah: "In rescuing them, they have changed my life as much as I have changed theirs."

Finding Your Furry Friend

Globally, there are an estimated 12 million dogs and 4 million cats living in shelters waiting to find a home.2 

Logo for the Mars Global Adoption Weekend, featuring an illustration of a dog kennel, a man petting a dog's head, and a tree.
With millions of pets in shelters waiting for their forever homes, Mars is hosting its second annual Global Adoption Weekend from October 3-5


During the Global Adoption Weekend Mars will be supporting prospective pet owners through partnerships with shelters, helping change two lives by bringing more pets and people together across more than 20 countries, incl. Australia, U.S., U.K., Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, India, Japan, Mexico, Spain, Switzerland, The Philippines, Poland, Romania, Thailand, and Ukraine.

For those who open their homes to a shelter pet, the rewards are huge. Spending time with a cat can increase levels of "happy hormones" like oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin.Plus, the benefits go both ways as studies have found that in three months of adoption, dogs show signs of increased confidence and cats show signs of bonding and calmness.4

If you've been thinking about adding a new feline family member, this is the perfect time to visit your local shelter. Every adoption is proof that compassion changes lives—giving a pet a loving home and enriching the wellbeing of the person who welcomes them.

Support and Content for New Pet Parents

To help new pet parents settle in, Mars and Calm are teaming up to offer new adopters 3 months of free Calm membership during the month of October. 

Shailene Woodley with her rescue cat on the cover of the "Finding Four-Legged Friends" Calm app story.

Shailene Woodley has also recorded a special Sleep Story for Calm, called Finding Four-Legged Friends, inspired by her own rescue cats and other amazing pet stories. It's part of the first-ever pet-inspired content collection on the app, designed to help pet owners find calm and rest.

Ready to find your new best friend and experience the joy of adoption? Visit your local animal shelter during the Global Adoption Weekend!

For more information, visit https://www.kinship.com/petsandwellbeing

References  

1. The research was conducted by YouGov Plc on behalf of Mars. Total sample size was 31299 adults across 20 markets (UK: 2507, Brazil: 2502; Canada: 1347; Germany: 1584; Indonesia: 2510; India: 1001; Mexico: 1567; Malaysia: 1036; Poland: 1349; US: 3748; China: 1054: Belgium: 1084; Australia: 1525; New Zealand: 1066; Spain: 1322; Netherlands: 1074; France: 1526; Denmark: 1093; Sweden: 1070; Italy: 1334). Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th February - 31st March 2025. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted at an individual country level to be representative of all dog and cat owners (aged 18+) in the respective markets.
2. Mars State of Pet Homelessness Report, 2024 
3. Waltham Petcare Science Institute, 2022: "Four Ways Pets Help Mental Health, According to Science"
4. PLOS ONE Study, 2023: "Longitudinal Tracking of Shelter Dogs"
Book cover for Feline by Tim Flach, featuring a cat with markings resembling a Zorro mask. The cat looks directly at the camera against a black background.


Tim Flach Captures the Essence of the Cat

From the lens of world-renowned photographer Tim Flach comes a stunning new photographic collection dedicated to one of humanity's most fascinating companions: the cat. 

For thousands of years, felines have captivated us with their beauty, intelligence, and fiercely independent spirit. In Feline, Flach explores this deep, enduring bond through more than 180 remarkable photographs that celebrate domestic cats and their wild counterparts.

A Gallery of Feline Excellence

Feline is more than just a collection of pictures; it's a visual journey through the world of cats. The book documents impressive show champions and internet icons alongside lesser-known pedigrees like the werewolf-like Lykoi and the humble, beloved moggie. Flach’s artistry captures the unique personality, character, and spirit of each feline subject in a way never seen before. It’s an intimate portrait of a creature we think we know so well.




The Science and History of Our Bond

What makes a cat so captivating? Tim Flach’s work is supplemented by scientific insights that help us understand our connection to felines. Evolutionary biologist Jonathan B. Losos unpacks the cat's remarkable journey, from its wild origins and its role as a sacred symbol in ancient civilisations to its viral superstardom online today. 

Meanwhile, neuroscientist Morten L. Kringelbach delves into the science of cuteness and explains why felines hold such power over us. These contributions weave together science, history, and human connection, offering a richer context for Flach’s breathtaking images.

Turkish Angora Cat - © Tim Flach



Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Access

Adding a modern twist to the experience, Feline includes QR codes that offer exclusive behind-the-scenes footage. Readers can get extraordinary insights into Flach’s creative process, seeing how he captures these amazing images. 

Published by Thames & Hudson Australia, this hardcover book is a testament to the power of photography and our timeless fascination with cats.

Meadow Sphynx Unity - © Tim Flach

Book Details:

  • Format: Hardcover, 300 pages
  • Language: English
  • Publisher: Thames & Hudson Australia
  • Publication date: 30 September 2025
  • RRP: $100.00

Where to Buy:


About the authors


Tim Flach is a world-renowned photographer known for his stylised portraits of animals. Driven by a passion for storytelling, his work bridges art and science, offering a deeper connection to the natural world. He has received numerous accolades, including an honorary fellowship from the Royal Photographic Society, an honorary doctorate from the University of the Arts London, and is a Senior Research Fellow (Artist in Residence) at the Centre for Eudaimonia and Human Flourishing at Linacre College, University of Oxford. His photographs are showcased in books, museums, and galleries worldwide. Feline is his eighth book.

Jonathan B. Losos is an author and evolutionary biologist renowned for his experimental research demonstrating that evolution can be studied as it happens. A Harvard alumnus, he has a wealth of work focussed on reptiles and has since shifted his scientific gaze to felines. He is the author of three books, including The Cat’s Meow: How Cats Evolved from the Savanna to Your Sofa, and has been elected to the National Academy of Sciences, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and the American Philosophical Society. He has received numerous awards including the Edward Osborne Wilson Naturalist Award, the Theodosius Dobzhansky Prize, and the Sewell Wright Award.

Professor Morten L. Kringelbach is the founding director of the Centre for Eudaimonia and Human Flourishing at Linacre College, University of Oxford, UK. He is also co-founder and Principal Investigator at the Center for Music in the Brain, University of Aarhus, Denmark. His prizewinning research has helped elucidate the brain systems driven by hedonic and eudaimonic stimuli such as infants, food, psychedelics, and music. He has published fourteen books and over 450 scientific papers, chapters, and other articles. His research features regularly in newspapers, magazines, radio, and television.
A cat is stretching and yawning with his claws extended on a wooden deck



A Month to Focus on Your Cat's Wellbeing


September marks Happy Cat Month, an international campaign dedicated to celebrating our beloved feline companions while raising awareness about their health and welfare. Pet Insurance Australia is proud to support this initiative and encourage cat owners across the country to take a moment to ensure their furry family members are living their happiest, healthiest lives.

“Cats bring so much joy, companionship, and comfort into our homes,” says Nadia Crighton, Pet Insurance Australia spokesperson. “Happy Cat Month is the perfect reminder to give back to them by ensuring they receive regular vet check-ups, a healthy diet, and plenty of enrichment and play.”

Happy Cat Month, created by the CATalyst Council, aims to dispel the myth that cats are entirely self-sufficient. In reality, cats thrive when their physical, emotional, and medical needs are met.

A green-eyed cat is lying on a bed with fluffy cushions in the background and a grey throw in the foreground



Top Tips for a Happy, Healthy Cat

  • Vet Visits: Preventive health checks can catch issues early, from dental disease to arthritis.
  • Nutrition: A balanced, high-quality diet tailored to your cat’s age and lifestyle.
  • Play & Enrichment: Toys, climbing spaces, scratching posts, and interactive play keep cats stimulated.
  • Safe Spaces: Cats love comfort zones. Provide cosy beds or window perches.
  • Love & Bonding: Dedicate time daily for gentle affection and interaction.
  • Beat the Bulge – check your cat’s weight to prevent future problems.

“Simple changes like rotating toys, providing scratching posts, or even spending a few extra minutes in playtime can make a huge difference to your cat’s wellbeing,” adds Crighton. “It’s also a great opportunity to start important conversations around preventive care and financial planning for unexpected vet bills.”

Don't Overlook Your Cat's Weight

Happy Cat Month also reminds us of the importance of monitoring our cats’ weight—an often-overlooked aspect of pet care. According to the 2025 PetSure Pet Health Monitor*, more than half of cats aged seven to eight in Australia are classified as overweight or obese.

“What’s more concerning is that only about 24% of owners recognise their cat’s weight as a problem—despite the health risks of obesity, including diabetes, arthritis, liver disease, and urinary issues,” Crighton says. 

“Regular weight checks and body condition assessments, whether at home or during vet visits, are simple but powerful steps toward keeping cats healthy long-term.”

While social media is filled with images of overweight cats being portrayed as cute or funny, the reality is far from harmless.
“Normalising obesity in cats can mask the serious health risks it poses from diabetes and joint pain to shortened lifespans,” Crighton warns. 
“What may look entertaining online can actually encourage unhealthy perceptions of pet care, making it even more important for owners to take their cat’s weight seriously.”

Related Stories:





Debunking the Myth: Why Your Cat Needs Professional Grooming

September marks Happy Cat Month, and one feline care company is using the occasion to shine a light on a common misconception among cat owners: the myth that self-grooming is enough to keep the coat and skin healthy as can be. 

La Belle Paw
, the creator of Australian-made, natural and 100% lick-safe Skin & Coat Grooming Powder designed just for cats, is partnering with renowned Certified Feline Master Groomer Sherie Williams-Slattery from The Cat Stylist - who joins the campaign as La Belle Paw’s grooming expert - to champion proactive feline care and introduce a safe, new solution for at-home maintenance.


With 17 years’ experience in animal care and pet grooming, Sherie has worked with cats of every age, breed and temperament. She is also a Certified Feline Creative Groomer and grooming educator for other Certified Feline Master Groomers across Australia, based on the Central Coast of NSW. 

Her focus is always on making grooming as stress-free as possible while improving each cat’s comfort, health and quality of life.

The Truth About Cat Grooming

“Cats don’t groom themselves; they lick themselves, and licking isn’t enough,” said Sherie. 
“All cats – no matter their age, breed, coat type or lifestyle – benefit from regular grooming!”
  • Long-haired cats are prone to matting, which can cause pain, restrict movement and trap dirt. 
  • Short-haired cats may not mat as easily, but they still shed, develop greasy coats and can suffer from hairballs or skin issues. 
  • Indoor cats collect dust and dander, while outdoor cats can pick up burrs, insects or debris.

“Regular grooming removes loose hair, reduces shedding and hairballs, keeps the skin and coat healthy, and allows early detection of lumps, parasites or other health concerns,” said Sherie. 

“Grooming also offers emotional benefits for your cat, such as reducing stress and encouraging bonding and comfort.”

Beyond Licking: The Risks of DIY Grooming

With most grooming products on the market designed for dogs, many contain ingredients unsuitable for a cat’s unique needs. Sherie emphasises that the right tools are crucial for a positive grooming experience, considering cats’ delicate coat, unique skin pH level and various sensitivities.

“The right choice depends on coat type, skin health, temperament and lifestyle,” she explained. “Using the right tools and products will not only make grooming easier but also protect the health of your cat’s skin and coat.”

The Right Tools for a Healthy Cat

She recommends metal combs, silicone brushes and salon-quality shampoos for bathing. While she typically avoids leave-in waterless products due to a cat’s tendency to lick, Sherie recognises a vital need for a safe option when a full bath isn't possible, such as for highly stressed cats, those with health issues or owners without access to a professional groomer.

The Solution for Stress-Free Grooming


“Nothing will beat the results of a good bath and blow dry, but as a safe in-between option when bathing isn’t possible, La Belle Paw’s Skin & Coat Grooming Powder can help keep the coat fresh and mat-free. It’s natural, safe when used as directed, and easy to apply without water,” she said.


Plus, La Belle Paw’s Skin & Coat Grooming Powder is enriched with probiotics to support cats’ healthy skin as well as a soft, shiny coat! It’s also carefully blended with colloidal oat for moisturising and soothing relief, hydrolysed wheat for conditioning and strengthening, argan oil for nourishment, and catnip oil to create calmer grooming sessions.

This unique, lick-safe formula debuted at the inaugural Oz Feline Fair & CATstravaganza, where it was proudly showcased by world-renowned cat judge Steven Meserve.

“La Belle Paw’s grooming powder is a great way to keep your cat's coat healthy in between professional visits,” said Sherie. 
“Regular bathing and grooming aren’t just for fixing issues. They’re for healthy cats, too, and are a powerful way to prevent skin and coat problems before they start!”
La Belle Paw Founder Snez Herve is calling on cat lovers this Happy Cat Month to make their cat’s health a priority by exploring the benefits of professional grooming and at-home solutions like La Belle Paw’s Skin and Coat Grooming Powder to help maintain their feline’s coat in between.

“Customers call it a game changer,” said Snez. “They love that it’s easy to use and provides a calming grooming experience with fresher, softer coats. They have the added confidence of knowing it's Australian-made and professionally recommended.”

For more information (and happy cats), visit www.labellepaw.com.au

Frequently Asked Questions About Cat Grooming

Certified Feline Master Groomer Sherie Williams-Slattery shares some common misconceptions about grooming cats:

✔️ Cats groom themselves.” Cats lick themselves, but licking doesn’t remove tangles, dandruff, excess oils, skin conditions, or debris. Regular bathing and combing reduce licking, which in turn helps prevent hairballs, blockages, matting, and excessive shedding.

✔️ Older cats just stop grooming due to mobility issues.” While mobility plays a role, ageing also changes a cat’s skin and coat — they often produce more oils, making the coat appear greasy or scruffy. Seniors usually need more bathing than when they were younger, and many enjoy the comfort of being clean again.

✔️ Cats don’t need bathing.” Cats have skin and hair, and both need cleaning. Skin produces oil and sheds; hair sheds and regrows. Without bathing, oils, dander, and loose fur build up and results in matting.

✔️ Cats don’t like water.” Many cats dislike certain aspects of bathing — such as the sound of running taps, water temperature, or being immersed suddenly. Gentle handling, correct water temperature, and a calm introduction make a big difference.

✔️ 
Short-haired cats don’t need grooming.” Short-haired cats can still mat, develop dandruff, and suffer skin problems. They often shed more than long-haired cats because their hair cycles is shorter. Regular bathing and combing are still essential.

✔️ Matting is just tangles and can be brushed out.” Cat matting is caused by loose, dead fur clumping with oils, dirt, and dander, binding to healthy hair. 

Severe mats must be shaved or removed with degreasing baths and blow drying. Prevention through regular bathing is the best solution.


About La Belle Paw

La Belle Paw is an Australian-made premium feline care brand dedicated to making grooming safer, gentler and stress-free. Founded by Snez Hervé, the company developed Australia’s first probiotic-infused, lick-safe Skin & Coat Grooming Powder designed specifically for cats’ unique needs. The natural formula helps reduce matting and shedding, while supporting skin health and coat condition without the stress of bathing.

Beyond products, La Belle Paw is committed to cat welfare and community care, proudly supporting the Illawarra Cat Rescue Association through donations and volunteer work. With its focus on feline happiness, La Belle Paw is fast becoming a trusted name among cat owners across Australia. 

Website: www.labellepaw.com.au | Instagram: @labellepaw


New data has just revealed the most popular cat breeds in every state and territory in Australia. From rising costs to social media influence, the data from Petsy paints a clear picture of Australia’s pet preferences.

New data reveals Australia’s surprising cat divide

New data reveals the most popular cat breeds by state and territory and what’s driving the national moggie obsession. Australia has long been a nation of animal lovers, but when it comes to cats, we’re more than ever choosing pets that fit modern living.

Antony, Domestic Shorthair Cat

Figures released today by leading pet insurance provider
Petsy show that the Domestic Shorthair cat is the most popular breed in nearly every state and territory, dominating pet insurance policies across the country. 

Except in one place: the Northern Territory, where the plush, blue-eyed Ragdoll takes the crown.

The results reflect a deeper story about rising costs, urban lifestyles, social media influence and post-pandemic pet preferences.

“Cats have always been a fixture of Australian homes, but we’ve seen a real shift in the last few years,” says Petsy Founder Monica Limanto. 
“More Australians are choosing pets that suit compact living, tighter budgets and flexible work arrangements – and the Domestic Shorthair ticks all those boxes.”
Why cats are winning hearts (and households) in 2025
Australia is home to approximately 5.3 million pet cats, with our feline friends found in one-third of households.[1] While dogs remain the country’s number one pet at 6.4 million,[2] cats are quietly increasing in popularity, thanks in large part to their affordability.[3]

On average, cat upkeep costs around $1,715 per year, compared to $3,218 for dogs. In a cost-of-living crisis, that difference matters.[4]

Cats are also better suited to apartment living, increasingly popular with renters and more flexible for owners returning to the office from hybrid or remote work. During the pandemic, nearly one in four Aussie cat owners adopted their feline, helping to fuel the rise of both rescue cats and highly Instagrammable breeds like Ragdolls and Maine Coons.

State and Territory breakdown

Mabel, Domestic Shorthair Cat
The Petsy data shows that Domestic Shorthair Cats are comfortably the top breed in most Australians homes, including New South Wales (34%), South Australia (34%), Victoria (33%), ACT (32%), Queensland (30%), Western Australia (32%) and Tasmania (43%).

Only the Northern Territory breaks the cycle, where the pampered Ragdoll accounts for a substantial third (33%) of policies, nudging the Domestic Shorthair into second place (27%).

From colony ships to TikTok stars

Cats have a long history in Australia. Introduced with the First Fleet as rat catchers, they became common household pets by the 1830s and were even released into the wild to control rabbits in the 19th century, unfortunately laying the groundwork for today’s feral cat problem.[5]

Today’s cats are less likely to roam farms and more likely to dominate phone screens. On TikTok and Instagram, Ragdolls, Maine Coons and other pedigrees are driving breed-specific trends, especially among Gen Z and Millennial pet owners.
But while the glamorous breeds grab attention online, it’s the sturdy, affectionate Domestic Shorthair, often adopted from shelters, that still rules the nation’s heart.

“For many families, cats offer companionship without the overheads of dog ownership,” says Monica. “And with adoption rates still high and budgets stretched, it’s no surprise the humble moggie continues to come out on top.”

Top five cat breeds in Australian households by Petsy policies

Top 5 cat breeds in the ACT (% of total cat policies in ACT)

1 Domestic Shorthair Cat             32%
2 Domestic Mediumhair Cat         9%
3 Ragdoll                                         7%
4 Abyssinian Cat                            7%
5 Maine Coon                                 5%

Top 5 cat breeds in NSW (% of total cat policies in NSW)

1 Domestic Shorthair Cat 34%
2 Domestic Mediumhair Cat 8%
3 Ragdoll 7%
4 British Shorthair 5%
5 Domestic House Cat 5%

Top 5 cat breeds in the NT (% of total cat policies in NT)

Elena, British Shorthair cross
1 Ragdoll 33%
2 Domestic Shorthair Cat 27%
3 British Shorthair 20%
4 Domestic Tabby Cat 7%
4 Burmese Cross 7%
4 British Shorthair Cross 7%

Top 5 cat breeds in QLD (% of total cat policies in QLD)

1 Domestic Shorthair Cat 30%
2 Ragdoll 10%
3 Domestic Mediumhair Cat 7%
4 Domestic Tabby Cat 6%
5 Ragdoll Cross 5%

Top 5 cat breeds in SA (% of total cat policies in SA)

1 Domestic Shorthair Cat 34%
2 Domestic Mediumhair Cat 14%
3 Domestic Tabby Cat 8%
4 Burmese 8%
5 Siberian 5%

Top 5 cat breeds in TAS (% of total cat policies in TAS)
Suki, Tabby cat

1 Domestic Shorthair Cat 43%
2 Domestic Mediumhair Cat 23%
3 Domestic Tabby Cat 7%
4 Domestic Longhair Cat 7%
5 Domestic Ginger Cat 7%

Top 5 cat breeds in VIC (% of total cat policies in VIC)

1 Domestic Shorthair Cat 33%
2 Domestic Mediumhair Cat 11%
3 Ragdoll 9%
4 Domestic Tabby Cat 8%
5 Domestic Longhair Cat 5%

Top 5 cat breeds in WA (% of total cat policies in WA)
Gracie, Ragdoll Cat


1 Domestic Shorthair Cat 32%
2 Domestic Mediumhair Cat 10%
3 Domestic Tabby Cat 9%
4 Maine Coon 6%
5 Ragdoll 5%

Data source: Petsy Policy data 2024 - 2025

References:


Global cat welfare charity International Cat Care (iCatCare) celebrate being cat-friendly every day for International Cat Day 

iCatCare are proud custodians and co-ordinators of this special day. As a pioneering cat welfare charity that advances the health and welfare of cats around the world, they provide expert feline information, education, resources and guidance to cat owners, veterinary professionals and those who work and volunteer with cats.

International Cat Day (Friday 8th August 2025) is an opportunity to highlight important feline-focused topics and raise awareness of cats as a species, sharing our resources and information for cat owners, veterinary professionals and feline enthusiasts around the globe to support their care for cats.

Nicola Martin, iCatCare CEO says, “At iCatCare, we know that even little changes in how we interact with cats in our daily lives can make a big difference to their physical health and mental wellbeing. From making cat friendly adjustments to the home environment, to taking steps to reduce the stress of veterinary clinic visits, we hope our #CatFriendlyEveryDay campaign for International Cat Day 2025 will encourage people to consider the positive changes they can make every day, for the cats in their care.

We'd like to thank our supporters, partners and sponsors whose generous funding enables iCatCare to continue to provide our charitable services through sharing feline knowledge and expertise, and to everyone who dedicates their time to improving the lives of cats around the world.”

#CatFriendlyEveryDay for International Cat Day 2025

This #International Cat Day, 
iCatCare are exploring what it means to be ‘cat-friendly’ – respecting each cat’s unique nature and meeting their environmental and social needs, whether at home, in the veterinary clinic, on the street or in a homing centre or shelter.

Throughout the day on 8 August 2025
iCatCare will be sharing cat friendly information and tips on our social media, including:




✔️ The importance of cat-friendly play for health and wellbeing

✔️ Understanding the signs for better cat-friendly interactions

✔️ Plus… a special 15% discount on their cat-friendly courses and more!

Social media posts will link to their cat advice and information web pages for a deeper read and further resources to support being cat-friendly every day with the felines in your life.

To find out more, visit icatatcare.org/international-cat-day 

International Cat Day 2025: Get involved

✔️ Follow @icatcare for cat caregivers and feline enthusiasts, and for veterinary professionals, follow @icatcareveterinarysociety.

✔️ Tag @icatcare and @icatcareveterinarysociety and share your own cat-friendly tips and how you’re celebrating the day, including if you are wearing pink for iCatCare, holding a fundraiser or celebrating being cat friendly at home, at work or with a feline friend!

✔️ Use the #InternationalCatDay and #CatFriendlyEveryDay

Make a donation or fundraise for iCatCare to support their work at icatcare.org.uk/support-us

To celebrate International Cat Day, throughout August we’re offering a 15% discount on our online, on-demand Cat Friendly courses. 
The offer is available until 31 August 2025


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