The Cat Men of Gotham: Tales of Feline Friendships in Old New York
By Peggy Gavan
Winner of the 2019 Cat Writers Association awards, "The Cat Men of Gotham" explores the lives of 19th-century NYC cats saved by men from diverse backgrounds. The book profiles 42 cats—from alley cats to mascots and presidential pets—who found new lives with firemen, cops, athletes, politicians, and more. Celebrating the historical bond between notable men and their feline companions, signed copies will be available at the tour's end.
The Bravest Pets of Gotham Tales of Four-Legged Firefighters of Old New York
By Peggy Gavan
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the New York Fire Department permitted firemen to keep one dog, one cat, or singing birds in their firehouse. Since the firemen were required to live and work at the firehouse full-time, these animal mascots—along with the horses that pulled the fire trucks—were their constant companions, making a dangerous workplace feel more like home.
"Shop Cats of New York" combines the charm of "Humans of New York" in a beautiful full-color collection. Featuring New York's iconic cats and their stories, these cats live in places like the Algonquin Hotel and Bleecker Street Records. True New Yorkers, they perch on wine crates and hotel counters, observing life around them. Captured by Tamar Arslanian and photographer Andrew Marttila, this book profiles 40 beloved cats, celebrating their unique tales.
The Cat Museum of New York City is dedicated to supporting the community of cats and those who care for them through public education and art. Their mission is to create a physical and virtual institution in NYC that backs the efforts of cat rescuers, no-kill shelters, and cat nonprofit organizations. By fostering partnerships with local and global artists, they plan to host art exhibitions, educational workshops, and events that promote cat culture and support rescue efforts.
Located in Brooklyn Heights, this café is run by the Brooklyn Bridge Animal Welfare Coalition. It offers a welcoming space to interact with adoptable cats and occasionally hosts special events like movie nights and yoga classes.
Established in 2014, Meow Parlour was NYC's first cat café. Located on the Lower East Side, it provides a cozy environment where visitors can spend time with adoptable cats while enjoying treats from Macaron Parlour. Reservations are recommended to ensure quality time with the cats.
Address: 46 Hester St, New York, NY 10002
Website:meowparlour.com
Koneko Cat Café
America’s first Japanese-inspired cat café, Koneko, is situated on the Lower East Side. Partnering with Anjellicle Cats Rescue, Koneko provides a serene setting where visitors can interact with cats across multiple spaces, including an outdoor "catio." The café also offers a selection of Japanese snacks and beverages.
Catbaret is a unique cat-themed cabaret that combines comedy, music, magic, and burlesque in a fun, feline-centric evening of entertainment. Hosted by Gemma Smith, the event promises a night filled with captivating performances by artists like burlesque stars Pussy Leigh and Nirah, comedian Joy Chen, and vocalist Peach Fuzz. Audiences are encouraged to come dressed in their most creative cat costumes, with free cat ears handed out to all attendees and exciting raffle prizes available.
