From Dispensaries to Museums: NYC's Pampered Cats Live Lavish Lives
A look at New York City's most celebrated felines, from social media stars to resident mascots in unique urban establishments.
New York City is home to a diverse cast of feline residents, many of whom enjoy lives far beyond the ordinary. From a cannabis dispensary's chief morale officer to a museum's resident skeleton admirer and social media influencers with millions of followers, these cats are living their best lives.
Lulu, a 14-year-old cat, holds court at Flower Daddy Dispensary in Williamsburg. Adopted 11 years ago by owner Pablo Velez, Lulu greets customers and staff, contributing to the shop's relaxed atmosphere. Velez describes Lulu as "completely convinced he is the boss," noting that the cat "relaxes people. He makes them smile."
In Brooklyn's Bone Museum, a 5-year-old mixed breed named Bone Jovi serves as the resident mascot. Originally from Georgia, Bone Jovi made his way to New York and now resides among the museum's collection of 6,000 skeletons. Jon Pichaya Ferry, the museum's managing director, stated that Bone Jovi "brings life, warmth and a sense of lightheartedness to a subject that can often feel somber."
Social Media Stars and Their Feline Families
Caelin Smith of Williamsburg manages the popular Instagram account @cleothecitykitty, featuring her cats Cleo, a 6-year-old Persian, and Clementine, a 1-year-old British longhair. Cleo gained viral fame for her reactions to a window washer, while Clementine, her younger companion, attempts to win his sister's affection. Smith famously feeds her cats from a silver platter and serves them water in crystal glasses.
Dan and Olivia Nguyen, a couple from Midtown West, are behind the massive social media presence of their three cats: Sponge Cake, a Scottish fold; Donut, a British shorthair; and Buttercream, another British shorthair. Their Instagram account, @spongecake_thescottishfold, and TikTok account, @spongecake_cats, boast millions of followers. The couple frequently dresses their cats in custom outfits for outings around the city and international trips, having visited Paris, London, Amsterdam, and Venice. Olivia Nguyen recalled Buttercream's first experience snow sledding in Central Park, where he sat calmly, observing the winter landscape.