Wear Your Heart on Your Sleeve (and Your Cat on Your T-Shirt): How Cat Swag Drives Adoptions

I've read multiple times this month that the internet was practically built on two things: cat and fashion. From adorable kittens getting in big trouble to runway models rocking cat-eye eyeliner, these two seemingly disparate worlds collide more often than you might think. But beyond the superficially appealing factor, there's a more profound connection: what we wear can make a difference for cats in need.

 In this blog, I explore how expressing our love for cats through fashion and "cat swag" can potentially impact adoptions and shape a more positive cultural perception of our feline friends. 

Is this hope what inspired me to create the Yoru Says brand, after all.

Beyond simply looking good, what we wear says something about who we are and what we care about—especially these days in the United States of America. So when it comes to our feline friends, expressing our affection through cat-themed apparel, accessories, and other "cat swag" can be more than just a personal statement – it can be a powerful form of advocacy.

1. Starting Conversations:  That cat lover hoodie isn't just fabric and ink; it's a conversation starter. Imagine you are in the supermarket and someone sees you carrying a Talk to me about cats tote. Someone will likely reach out, either someone who agrees or someone who has been on the fence about adopting. Wouldn't it feel great to be there to answer all the questions about how awesome they are? For sure there are at least three misconceptions we could help dispell. And what about the people who love you but have no idea you are a cat lover? Most likely, they would be curious to know what you like about them if they are not fans. These small interactions can help address the negative stereotypes that many movies and other types of media have built around cats and help us all create a more positive image of them.
2. Building Community:  Now, imagine you spot someone in a coffee shop who is also a cat lover. How would you feel about that person? How does your mood change in the presence of another cat lover? I don't know about you, but I'm highly positively biased toward cat lovers. If you love cats, I know you can accept someone without forcing them to submit, just the way they are. It will make me assume you deeply empathize with others, making me like you more. Now, imagine you find out many people in your team are cat lovers. How does it make you feel about the team in general? This sense of collective connection in our day to day could be compelling, encouraging people to support cat-related causes and even consider adoption.
3. Normalizing Cat Love:  The more we see cats represented positively in our everyday lives – on clothing, mugs, phone cases – the more normalized and accepted it becomes. This helps to counteract negative stereotypes and promotes a more compassionate view of cats as loving companions.
4. The "Enclothed Cognition" Effect:  Research suggests (Adam & Galinsky, 2012) that what we wear can influence how we feel and act. Donning your favorite cat-themed sweater can boost your mood, remind you of the joy cats bring, and even make you more likely to engage in cat-friendly behaviors, like volunteering at a shelter or sharing adoption information.

The positive representation of cats through fashion and merchandise is essential in improving cat adoption intent.

1. Challenging Stereotypes:  By showcasing cats as stylish, cool, and desirable, we challenge the outdated "crazy, joyless cat lady" stereotype and present a more modern and appealing image of cat ownership.
2. Creating Positive Associations:  Cat-themed items often depict cats in playful, affectionate, and endearing ways, creating positive emotional associations that make them seem more attractive to potential adopters.
3. Increasing Visibility:  The more we see cats daily, the more they stay top-of-mind. This increased visibility can prompt people to consider adopting a cat and remind them of the many benefits of feline companionship.

We deeply believe that by wearing our hearts (and our cats) on our sleeves, we can make a real difference in the lives of cats who today die waiting at the shelters for a loving chance. So, embrace your inner cat lover, rock that cat-themed tote bag, and know that you're not just making a fashion statement – you're advocating for a brighter future for felines everywhere.