About 4-H & the 4-H Cat Project

What is 4-H?

4‑H is a national youth program administered by public universities that empowers young people with the skills to lead for a lifetime. It’s a research-based experience that includes a mentor, a hands-on project, and a meaningful leadership opportunity.

In 4-H, youth are challenged to delve deep into a topic of interest, develop real knowledge and skills, and to "Learn by Doing."

Originally oriented toward agriculture, 4-H today is focused on science, engineering, and technology programs, as well as citizenship, healthy living, leadership, responsibility, and life skills.

What is the 4-H Cat Project?

The 4-H Cat Project is a science-based program focused on learning about cats. Cat 4-H is an excellent program for anyone who likes cats, and a great project for youth in urban, suburban, and rural areas.

In cat 4-H, members will learn to handle themselves and their cats safely, how to care for cats, and about cat breeds, history, physiology, and more. Members can participate in cat 4-H as young as age 5. Clubs are multi-age so that younger members can learn from older members.

Activities include club meetings, 4-H cat shows, educational "clinics", and exhibiting at the county fair.

Participants do not need to own a fancy purebred cat; most 4-H cats are categorized "household pets."

About Our Club

Paws 'n' Claws, Too meets on Tuesday in Snohomish, Washington, from October through June. Here's a local news article about our club from 2010!

Our county fair is at the Evergreen State Fair in Monroe at the end of August. If you're outside this area, contact your county's 4-H Extension Office to find a Cat 4-H club near you.