Paws, Pomp, and Purring: Celebrating Russian Cat Day

On March 1st, Russia celebrates something truly noble, deeply refined, and unquestionably deserving of a holiday: Cats.

Yes, that’s right. In Russia, National Cat Day is real—and frankly, it makes me wonder why this isn’t a global holiday yet. But I digress.

Today, we honor our Russian cousins and their long history of feline reverence. From snow-covered villages to the grand halls of the Hermitage Museum, cats in Russia have earned their place in both hearts and history.

The Cats of the Hermitage

Let’s start with something truly fabulous.
Did you know that the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg—home to thousands of priceless works of art—also has resident cats?

These feline guardians patrol the museum’s vast cellars, keeping rodents at bay and gracing the grounds with their majestic presence. They’ve been there for centuries. Empress Elizabeth, daughter of Peter the Great, officially installed cats at the Winter Palace in the 1700s. Imagine being hired by a queen just for being a good mouser. Goals.

These cats are so beloved that they have their own staff, care center, and even personal holiday within the museum.

Russian Love for Cats Runs Deep

Russia is a country of deep winters and warm hearths, and cats are treasured companions. In folklore, they are protectors of the home—said to bring luck, warmth, and peace.

Some Russian superstitions include:

• It’s good luck when a cat enters your home first.
• A gray cat is especially lucky for new beginnings.
• And of course, the classic: if a cat washes its face, guests are coming.

I, personally, wash my face just to keep things interesting.

How to Celebrate Like a Russian Cat

You don’t have to live in St. Petersburg to honor the day. Here are Tyson-approved ways to participate:

• Offer extra treats and affection to your feline companions. Or just offer a box. We will accept both.
• Brush us with reverence. Yes, that includes under the chin.
• Admire us properly. No rushed glances. Full, lingering stares only.
• Read a poem aloud. Bonus points if it’s by Pushkin. Or about cats. Or both.
• Nap in solidarity. It’s a cultural experience.

From One Cat to the World

I may not be Russian (though I do appreciate a dramatic landscape), but I stand in solidarity with cats everywhere. We are elegant. We are historic. And we absolutely deserve a holiday—preferably more than one.

So to all my fellow felines near and far: May your fish be fresh, your blankets warm, and your humans well-trained.

С Днём кошек! (Happy Cat Day!)
And if you’re reading this with a cat nearby, give them a little head scritch from me.

Purrs and international appreciation,
Tyson 🐾