Cat Day, Reimagined: How Sweets Are Fueling a Quiet Cultural Shift in Japan

English

「こねこチーズケーキ」税込み1,200円

2026.02.08

編集部

「ファミリ～にゃ～ト大作戦！」商品イメージ — Image of products from the “Family-Nya-T Operation!” campaign

In recent years, Feb. 22 — known in Japan as “Cat Day” — has grown into something more than a playful pun on the calendar.

The date was chosen for its catchy “nyan-nyan-nyan” sound — “nyan” being a common Japanese onomatopoeia for a cat’s meow, echoing the pronunciation of the number two — and was officially established in 1987 by the Cat Day Executive Committee as a celebration of cat-loving culture. On social media, the day brings a flood of pet photos, while events, limited-edition merchandise and themed sweets appear nationwide.

「にゃんともおいしいくろねこテリーヌショコラ」イメージ — Image of “Nyantomo Delicious Black Cat Terrine Chocolat”

The seasonal spotlight is especially bright in the world of sweets, where cat-themed creations have become a February staple. Major convenience store chains and specialty brands roll out limited-time items in quick succession. FamilyMart, for example, is running a feline-themed campaign dubbed “Family-Nya-T Operation,” offering about 17 products nationwide, including paw-shaped tarts and tail-inspired sandwiches. The lineup spans bread, desserts, snacks and even daily necessities, drawing attention not only from devoted cat lovers but also from shoppers looking for visually appealing treats.

Other convenience store chains have joined in, stocking cat-themed breads, cakes, jellies and gummies, allowing customers to savor the Cat Day mood during everyday shopping trips.

「こねこチーズケーキ」税込み1,200円 — “Kitten Cheesecake,” 1,200 yen including tax

Specialty shops and brands are also fueling the buzz. The “Neko Neko” brand began selling new items on Feb. 1 at participating stores nationwide and online, including “Kitten Cheesecake” and a cat-shaped pudding called “Ne! Koneko Pudding,” both designed to highlight feline charm.

期間限定の猫クレープのイメージ — Image of limited-time cat-themed crepes

Gelato Pique Cafe is hosting a limited-time crepe fair, “Creme Crepe Cats,” inspired by two cats. The playful sweets combine photogenic appeal with flavors meant to be enjoyed bite after bite.

「くろにゃんチョコケーキ」税込み480円 — “Kuronya Chocolate Cake,” 480 yen including tax

At Kura Sushi, a collaboration with the popular “mofusand” character series has produced a range of cat-themed offerings, including a black cat–inspired chocolate cake and chocolate milk. The fact that cat motifs now appear across cafes and conveyor-belt sushi restaurants alike suggests that the Cat Day boom is influencing Japan’s broader food culture.

The growing number of Cat Day products reflects how the occasion is gaining recognition as a fixture of popular culture and evolving into a major seasonal event.

Cats have long held a special place in Japan’s cultural imagination, from the lucky beckoning cat figurine to frequent appearances in literature and folklore. In modern times, the country’s “cute” culture has given rise to a wide array of cat-themed content, helping to propel the Cat Day phenomenon. As this everyday affinity for cats becomes visible through sweets and other consumer goods, the celebration has expanded into an event that more people can enjoy and share.

Seen this way, Cat Day sweets are more than just charming confections. They serve as a reflection of Japanese lifestyle and seasonal enjoyment, taking root as a new way to savor cat culture — whether as a gift for a beloved pet, a treat for afternoon tea or something to share with friends.