Here’s a list of famous cats. Yes, many cats have become quite the stars around their neighborhoods and around the world. Many of these kitties have made an impact in different walks of lives. Do you have a favorite famous cat?
Dewey Readmore Books (1987-2006) – This orange kitty was the resident cat at the Spencer Public Library in Spencer, Iowa. His arrival at the library is now part of the library’s history: he was put on the book return on a wintry night. The staff found it there the next morning. Shortly after, Dewey was adopted by the library and became a true star.
Dewey attracted lots of publicity and he soon became known around the United States and the rest of the world. His biography, written by Vicki Myron, was published in 2008. It quickly became a best-seller. A film based on Dewey’s story is now in the works. For more information about Dewey, visit the Spencer Library. Dewey is indeed one of the most famous among famous cats.
Fred the Undercover Cat (2005-2006) – Fred became famous after he assisted the Brooklyn District Attorney’s office and the NYPD in the arrest of a man suspected of practicing veterinary medicine without a license. Fred posed as a would-be patient of the suspect. This brave kitty was a recipient of a Law Enforcement Achievement Award. Learn more about Fred the Undercover Kitty.
Hodge – He was one of the cats of British author Samuel Johnson. Hodge was immortalized in James Boswell's Life of Johnson. A statue of Hodge was erected outside of Mr. Johnson’s London house.
Lewis the Cat – A native of Connecticut, Lewis was placed on house arrest in 2006 after several neighbors accused the feline of viciously attacking them. It was the first time a cat was put under house arrest in the US. The owner was also arrested for failing to comply with the restraining order that was placed on Lewis. There was even talk of putting him to sleep. Fortunately, a judge ordered him to stay inside at all times, with the exception of vet visits.
Maggie the Cat – This New York kitty wandered off her owner’s apartment. Apparently, her explorations got her in deep trouble. It turned out that her leg got wedged in an elevator, injuring her knee. Maggie needed surgery but her owner was unable to pay for it. After her story appeared in the Daily News, New Yorkers rallied behind Maggie giving enough money to pay for her operation. Here's an article about this curious kitty.
Nora the Piano-playing Cat - Nora is a gray tabby cat who became famous for playing the piano. Indeed, she has become a YouTube sensation. You can check one of her videos below.
Oscar the Cat (b. 2005) – A therapy cat living in a Rhode Island nursing home, this kitty supposedly can predict death. He was featured in the New England Journal of Medicine but there is no conclusive evidence that Oscar does indeed have a "sixth sense".
More Famous Cat Names
Prince Chunk (Real name Powder) – The extra large kitty (he tipped the scales at 44 lbs) who made the news. Prince Chunk appeared on Live with Regis and Kelly and Today - among many other shows. He was found wandering the streets of a New Jersey town.
Scarlett (1995-2008) – She was the brave mama cat who saved her kittens from a raging fire.
Socks – This First Cat was the pet kitty of Former President Bill Clinton.
Sybil the British cat – The pet of Alistair Darling, Chancellor of the Exchequer, she was the Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office.
Tama, the Japanese railroad cat (b. 1999) - She is the station master at Kishi Station in Kinokawa, Japan.
Gift Ideas
Here are some books about famous felines...
Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World by Vicki Myron
100 Cats Who Changed Civilization: History's Most Influential Felines by Sam Stall
Felix: The Twisted Tale of the World's Most Famous Cat by John Canemaker
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