🐱 5 Famous Cats Who Earned Their Place in History Books

[Fragonwings]

We often think of cats as lazy loungers, sunbathing in windows or knocking glasses off tables—but some felines have made their mark on human history in unforgettable ways. From war heroes to political icons, here are five cats whose deeds earned them a place in the record books and the hearts of millions.

1. Félicette – The First Cat in Space
Before there was Elon Musk’s cat meme army, there was Félicette, the real deal. In 1963, this stray from the streets of Paris became the first cat in space, launched aboard a French rocket as part of scientific experiments. Her mission provided valuable neurological data—and she safely returned to Earth. In 2019, she finally got the memorial she deserved: a bronze statue titled “Space Cat”.

Why she’s in history books: First feline to survive space travel.

2. Stubbs – The Cat Mayor of Alaska
In the small town of Talkeetna, Alaska, locals elected a kitten named Stubbs as honorary mayor in 1997. Tourists came from all over just to meet the feline politician lounging in the local general store. Stubbs “served” for 20 years, greeting visitors and sipping catnip cocktails in a golden goblet.

Why he’s in history books: One of the world’s most famous “elected” cats.

3. Simon – War Hero of the High Seas
During the 1949 Yangtze Incident, Simon served aboard the British naval ship HMS Amethyst. Despite being injured by enemy fire, Simon continued catching rats and boosting morale during a 100-day siege. He was later awarded the Dickin Medal, the animal version of the Victoria Cross—the only cat ever to receive it.

Why he’s in history books: Only cat to receive a military honor for bravery.

4. Towser – The World Record Mouser
Towser was no ordinary distillery cat. Living at Glenturret Distillery in Scotland, she caught an estimated 28,899 mice over 24 years. That’s about three mice a day! Her legendary mousing earned her a Guinness World Record—and a statue at the distillery.

Why she’s in history books: Official Guinness World Record holder for most mice caught by a cat.

5. Unsinkable Sam – The Cat Who Survived Three Shipwrecks
Sam, a black-and-white cat also known as “Unsinkable Sam,” survived not one, not two, but three wartime shipwrecks: Germany’s Bismarck, and two British ships, Cossack and Ark Royal. After his incredible streak of survival, he retired to dry land and lived out his days in peace.

Why he’s in history books: The cat with nine lives—at least three confirmed.

Final Thoughts
Cats might be known for their independence and aloofness, but these five prove that when the moment calls, they can be heroes, legends, and even politicians. Got a favorite feline fact or a local legend? Drop it in the comments—we’d love to hear about more history-making cats!