We went to Cat Camp NYC

If you passed by the Metropolitan Pavillion in New York City a couple of weekends ago, you probably noticed more than a few people wearing cat ears and excitedly waiting to get out of the chilly weather and into Cat Camp NYC. That’s right… We went to Cat Camp NYC!

The event is billed as “a celebration of all things cat” and a diverse crowd gathered to learn about a variety of topics including kitten care, cat cafes, colony management, and “catifying” your home and to geek out with fellow cat fans. It featured vendors selling everything from cat toys, treats and trees to tees and ties for humans.

Celebrities, both human and feline, were on hand, including Lil’ Bub, for pictures and autographs as well as a number of rescue groups promoting projects and spreading the word about their efforts to help protect cat populations. There was even an “adoption ally” where a number of cats were available to those seeking to open their homes and hearts to a new feline friend.

CCP staffers Kristen, the show’s technical cat, and Lisa, who you’ll often hear on the “Ask Stacy” episodes, were thrilled to have a chance to take in the event. Here’s a few of their thoughts:

We went to Cat Camp NYC!

From Kristen:

“Cat Camp NYC was great fun! I did tour the vendors (and may have brought home a souvenir or two for my feline crew at home) and scratched behind the ears of a few adorable adoptable kitties.

I even got to shake hands with Jackson Galaxy and find out a bit more about his organization. (If you too would like to learn a little more, check out podcast episodes from Sandy Monterose and Christie Rogero, both of the Jackson Galaxy Foundation. Jackson Galaxy will also be on The Community Cats Podcast in late April!) 

My favorite part of the event though – because I love learning new things – was the speakers. The organizers were able to schedule some fascinating people in a variety of specialties. (Here’s a link to the full list.) 

I was able to catch The NYC Feral Cat Initiative, who gave a wonderful presentation about managing colonies and educating the public in an urban environment. It contained a lot of info that I think any TNR group would have found useful regardless of their location. 

I also was able to get into the packed presentation by favorite podcast guest Hannah Shaw – aka The Kitten Lady – who discussed how even the busiest person can neonatal kittens and help them thrive. She showed some awfully cute videos too!” 

From Lisa:

“Community is a beautiful thing.  

Everyone was thrilled to let their “cat freak flag” fly and be in one place with others who have a common interest.  We chatted with strangers, we held peoples’ places in line, we shared stories about our cats and the vibe was just a delight. 

Cats are job creators.

Look at all of the different businesses and causes that have resulted from the popularity of cats….designer catnip, whimsical cat furniture, lovely artwork, documentary filmmakers, and so much more.  Creative people are using their talents to make the world a magical place for cats and cat people.

It takes A village.

There are so many sub-specialities in the effort to help cats.  The Kitten Lady, special needs cat care and adoptions, the JG Foundation.  We need all types of people to lend their abilities to make a difference. No matter what you do, there’s a way for you to help.”

Overall, Cat Camp NYC was a wonderful, informative and community building weekend and we can’t wait to hear what they have in store for next year!