Cat Museums Around the World

From art to literature, cats have left such a lasting mark on culture that some places have even built entire museums just for them. From quirky collections to world-class art galleries, cat museums celebrate our feline companions in fascinating ways.

Famous Cat Museums

The Cat Museum (Kuching, Malaysia)

Located in the city of Kuching, whose very name means “cat” in Malay, this museum is a must-visit for any cat lover. It houses more than 4,000 exhibits, ranging from ancient Egyptian feline relics to modern pop culture memorabilia. You’ll find everything from taxidermy and paintings to comic books and sculptures, making it one of the most comprehensive cat collections in the world.

KattenKabinet (Amsterdam, Netherlands)

If you’re a fan of fine art, KattenKabinet offers a more elegant take on feline appreciation. Housed in a historic canal house, this museum showcases how cats have been depicted in art for centuries. You’ll spot works by greats like Picasso and Rembrandt, alongside vintage posters, sculptures, and rare books, all centered on cats. The building itself adds to the charm, with original 17th-century architecture setting the stage for an artistic feline journey.

The Cat Museum (Moscow, Russia)

The perfect mix of art, history, and quirky feline-themed exhibitions. Moscow’s Cat Museum blends art with hands-on fun. Exhibitions range from paintings and crafts to performances and events inspired by cats. Unlike more traditional museums, this one often features live cats roaming around, making it feel more like a celebration than a gallery. Its playful atmosphere makes it especially popular among families.

Quirky & Niche Cat Museums

Gotokuji Temple (Tokyo, Japan)

While not a museum in the traditional sense, Gotokuji Temple is famous as the birthplace of the maneki-neko, or beckoning cat figurine, which is believed to bring good fortune. Visitors will find rows upon rows of these lucky cat statues in varying sizes, creating an unforgettable (and very photogenic) sight. The temple has become a pilgrimage spot for cat lovers and anyone seeking a bit of luck.

Cat Museum of Minsk (Belarus)

A small but cozy spot in Minsk is as heartwarming as it is educational. Visitors can browse through cat-inspired art and collectibles, but the highlight is the chance to spend time with live cats, many of whom are adoptable rescues. It’s a unique mix of cultural appreciation and animal welfare, making it a favorite among travelers who want both an experience and a cause to support.

Lithuanian Museum of Cats (Šiauliai, Lithuania)

Founded by a cat-loving professor, this museum is as charming as it is eclectic. The exhibits include over 10,000 cat-related items collected from around the globe: postcards, toys, figurines, stamps, and more. It’s a treasure trove of feline-inspired knickknacks, and its quirky character reflects the joy cats bring to everyday life.

Why Cat Museums Exist

Cat museums aren’t just quirky tourist stops, they reflect the deep bond between humans and their feline companions throughout history. Across cultures, cats have been celebrated as symbols of luck, mystery, and even divinity, and these museums preserve that legacy through art, artifacts, and folklore. They also highlight the universal appeal of cats, bringing together people from all walks of life who share the same admiration for these graceful, curious creatures. For cat

lovers and curious travelers alike, visiting a cat museum offers both a cultural experience and a chance to see how our furry friends have inspired creativity across the globe.

Whether you’re strolling through the art-filled halls of Amsterdam’s KattenKabinet or surrounded by thousands of lucky cats in Tokyo, cat museums prove just how much humans adore their feline companions. If you ever find yourself traveling, keep an eye out, you never know when you’ll stumble upon a museum dedicated entirely to cats!