A stray gray cat named Willow stole the spotlight at a Joe Biden rally in Pennsylvania in 2020 and ended up being adopted by soon-to-be first lady Jill, who later wrote a book about her. Cats like Willow often find themselves in fortunate situations, bringing their unique charm and value to famous venues they inhabit.
In London, Lilibet, a Siberian Forest cat residing at the luxurious Lanesborough Hotel, attracts visitors who come specifically to meet her. Another notable cat in London is Hodge, who resides at Southwark Cathedral and delights visitors with his presence. Across the Thames, Larry serves as the iconic cat of 10 Downing St., outlasting several prime ministers as the Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office.
Museums across the globe also treasure feline residents. The Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg houses around 80 cats who help control the pest population. In Key West, Florida, The Hemingway Homes and Museum is home to 59 cats, with half of them being descendants of Hemingway’s six-toed cat, Snow White, attracting visitors who come to see both the museum and its feline residents.
Some cats become beloved mascots in unexpected places. In Puerto Rico, a cat named Tuesday made a coffee shop her home, while in Venezuela, a cat under the influence of Hugo Chavez keeps journalists company at the National Electoral Council. Finally, Lule has become the symbol of Dit’ e Nat (Day and Night) bar in Pristina, Kosovo, with visitors coming specifically to see and interact with her.
Cats like Willow, Lilibet, and Larry have shown that these feline friends can bring joy, charm, and comfort to various places, making them beloved members of their respective communities.
