Last Updated on 23 October 2025 by Vanessa
Welcome to the latest Cats Around the World edition in which we feature kitties from different corners of the globe, including Portugal, USA, Belgium, Croatia, China, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Montenegro, Greece, and France.
So, just kick back, relax, and enjoy these feline characters from around the world!
Cats Around the World
Aljustrel, Portugal
Aljustrel is a town in the Beja District of the Alentejo region in southern Portugal.
Historically, it has been associated with mining activities, particularly the extraction of copper and other minerals, but its economy has diversified over the years, incorporating agriculture and services.
The surrounding region is known for its picturesque landscapes and cultural heritage, making it a destination for those interested in exploring both historical and natural attractions in Portugal.
Submitted by Jennifer Vangindertael.
Darwin, California
If you’re a fan of offbeat destinations and unique travel experiences, then Darwin, California, should be on your radar.
Tucked away in the arid Death Valley region, Darwin is somewhat of a ghost town.
It was founded in the 1870s during the silver mining boom, but by the 1950s, it was propelled from society by tragic turns.
Its residents abandoned Darwin and left it to the harsh forces of nature.
The town’s remote location, arid desert landscape, and extreme weather conditions have turned it into a time capsule frozen in the 19th century – with its decaying buildings, rusty machinery, and forgotten belongings offering a glimpse into its storied past.
Nowadays, Darwin counts only 35 inhabitants, who have to try and survive without government, church, and employment.
They have to live with mental illness and generational poverty.
Because of their poor education and admitted criminal backgrounds, it is hard for them to find a job and fit into society outside of Darwin.
At least, they have a cat.
Submitted by Nick Brandestini from the documentary film Darwin (2011).
Deurne, Belgium
This kitty lives in Deurne, a district in the northern part of Antwerp, Belgium.
It’s mainly a residential area, with various parks and green spaces providing recreational opportunities. However, it’s also home to cultural sites such as the Rivierenhof park, which features lakes and a castle.
Submitted by Kerstin Ryckaert.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik is one of the most beautiful old towns I have visited in Croatia. And this is true even if you are not a Game of Thrones fan like me.
There are many things to do in Dubrovnik old town. You can walk the old town walls of Dubrovnik and enjoy the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Or ride the cable car up the Srd hill, listening to jazz, and see the fort up one that hill.
But meandering aimlessly on the cobbled streets of Dubrovnik old town has its own charm.
I woke up early to capture the historical attractions in the old town sans the tourists and came across so many cats, crouching, scratching against pillars, and walking the streets.
Locals must be feeding them because they looked healthy and clean.
Submitted by Shweta Singhal from the travel blog Zest in a Tote.
Hong Kong, China
During my time in Hong Kong, I found a kitten hiding under a car. As I tried to take its photo, the curious feline emerged from its hiding spot and approached me, leading to this fun photo series.
By the way, did you know that Hong Kong has earned a reputation as a city of cats?
Shopkeepers often keep cats to naturally control the presence of mice and rats, especially in the traditional dried-food shops in the older quarters. There are even books about them: Shop Cats of Hong Kong and Shop Cats of China.
Submitted by Nicolas Nemiri.
Hydra Harbor, Hydra
Many of the cats in my book The Secret Life of Greek Cats were photographed on the island of Hydra, which is part of the Saronic Islands group and is situated approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) southwest of Athens, the capital city of Greece.
On a recent trip back to Hydra, I was curious to see if the economic crisis in Greece had affected the island’s feline population.
The harbor cats were there, as numerous as always.
They were gathered to greet the tourists, waiting under the taverna tables for handouts, and avoiding being trampled by the donkeys in the harbor, who are the only form of transportation on Hydra.
Upon closer observation, one cannot help but notice the varying conditions of the cats inhabiting Hydra. Every time I’d comment that the Hydra cats seemed thinner than before, my daughter Eleni would point out a fat cat who clearly enjoyed a regular meal schedule.
Submitted by Joan Paulson Gage.
Istanbul, Turkey
The stray cats themselves are one of Istanbul’s many attractions. You can find them everywhere: sleeping on the benches in train stations, riding ferries, decorating the windows of shops, or lying as merchandise on their shelves.
You won’t see anyone chasing them away or being rude to them. Cats are the princesses of Istanbul, and people adore them. They take care of them, feed them, leave them water, and shelter them in warmth when it’s cold outside.
The reverence for cats is linked to the Islamic religion. According to legend, a cat saved the life of the Prophet Muhammad. Hence, cats have the status of almost sacred animals not only in Istanbul but throughout Turkey.
On your next visit to Istanbul, pet one of these lovable fluffies and drop a coin in one of the vending machines in the parks to pay for a serving of food for one of them.
Submitted by Maria from the travel blog Map and Camera.
Jabel Jais, United Arab Emirates
I found this stray cat on top of the highest point in the UAE, in the Hajar Mountains. It is located in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah and has become a popular destination for outdoor activities and tourism.
Unfortunately, we have a big stray cat problem here in the UAE, which is large due to people abandoning their sick or pregnant cats.
Submitted by Alison Watt from the travel blog Glimpses of UAE.
Kotor, Montenegro
If you’re looking to spot some cute kitties on your travels, you cannot miss a visit to Kotor. Lovingly known as the “cat capital” of Montenegro, the old town of Kotor is a haven for cat-lovers. In fact, scoping out these four-legged friends is easily one of the best things to do in Kotor.
Fortunately, you won’t have to look very far to find them.
In addition to these fabulous felines frolicking freely around the city proper, there’s also a museum that’s entirely dedicated to these feline cuties.
Here, you’ll find everything from delightful photos of cats, to cat-themed memorabilia, to medals from past cat shows.
That said, the undeniable highlight of the museum is the resident cats who are the best interactive “exhibits” around!
Submitted by Elena Pappalardo from the travel blog The Carry-On Chronicles.
Lipsi, Greece
Lipsi is a small Greek island in the eastern part of the Aegean Sea, part of the Dodecanese archipelago.
It’s characterized by its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and traditional white-washed buildings. Lipsi is less crowded compared to some other Greek islands, making it an ideal destination for those looking to relax and enjoy a more authentic and serene atmosphere.
The island is also home to several churches and monasteries, including the Panagia tou Harou, a monastery perched on a hill offering panoramic views.
Like many other Greek islands, there are numerous stray, abandoned, and feral cats.
The majority of these cats are born in the spring and survive through the kindness of tourists who feed them.
However, at the end of the summer season the tourists leave and many die of starvation or poisoning by locals who find them a nuisance.
Consider adopting a cat from Greece; it’s much easier than you think.
Submitted by Corinna Giraudi
Paris, France
Here’s one of our favorite memories from visiting Montmartre, Paris.
While wandering down Rue de la Paix, we heard accordion music playing. When we looked for the source of the music, we saw a man sitting in a doorway playing the accordion with a cat laying on top of the instrument he was playing.
We watched for several minutes as he played, at first thinking the cat was fake. But turns out, it was just taking a cat nap. The cat woke up and nuzzled around, clearly enjoying every second of being the musician’s apprentice.
The man played for quite a while, and the cat never left his position on the accordion.
This experience is just one of 12 things we think everyone should experience when they visit Montmartre. You can read about the other 11 in our post on Montmartre.
Submitted by Kayla from the travel blog The Stickered Suitcase.
Shangai, China
I was wandering in Shanghai before starting a 4.5 month cycling trip from Shanghai to Istanbul.
I was hungry, and my belly brought me to this small fruit and vegetable market tucked in a side street amongst traditional homes.
This little kitten caught my eye at first because it was relaxing in a basket of cherries for sale.
I sat watching and realized it was playing with some cherries, too (you can see one in its paws).
The market stall owner didn’t seem to mind the kitten.
In fact, it almost felt like the kitten was the one in charge.
Submitted by Candice from the family travel site Go See Learn.
Šibenik, Croatia
In Šibenik, a picturesque coastal town in Croatia, the presence of cats adds a unique charm to its streets.
These feline residents are often seen lounging in sunny spots, seeking shade behind historic churches or freely roaming the cobblestone alleyways.
While some perceive them as bothersome, others embrace their presence as an integral aspect of the city’s identity.
Many locals take on the responsibility of providing food and care for these felines, placing out bowls of food and water and even crafting makeshift shelters to shield them during colder months.
If you hold a fondness for animals, consider extending this kindness.
Submitted by Zi from the travel blog Craving Adventure.
Utila Island, Honduras
Have you ever met a cat living in a diving school?
No?
Let me introduce you to Snoop, the orange-white cat who lives in a diving center on Utila Island, Honduras.
While some humans think they’re running the diving school, he has the actual hard job.
Every day, he checks in on the students if they’re following the theoretical lessons. If they don’t, he has to sit on their laps or on their books to make sure they’re attentive.
After that, he controls all the equipment. Imagine how much sniffing needs to be done.
And of course, he takes care of the ones who felt sick during the boat ride by cuddling with them once they’re back at the diving school.
He takes it very seriously, I can tell.
To make sure others realize who is the true boss, he loves showing off his bow tie.
By the way – Do you get the wordplay? It’s not Snoop Dog but Snoop Cat.
Submitted by Gillian Manassee from the travel blog Jill on Journey.
Conclusion
Do you love these cats from all over the world? What’s your favorite?
If you want YOUR photos to be included in the next batch, why not share them with us on X, BlueSky, or Facebook? We’d love to feature your cat pictures!
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