Last Updated on 1 January 2026 by Vanessa
The cats of San Juan are the focus of this photo series by photographer Emily Wang. Her work documents quiet, everyday moments with the city’s cats, while celebrating the joy these animals bring to both locals and tourists. Along the way, she shares her vision for a brighter future for our furry companions.
Meeting the cats of San Juan
“I’m a sucker for animals. Especially soft and fluffy ones,” Wang says. “As an animal lover and photographer, I’m always looking for chances to capture their personalities.”
While visiting San Juan, Puerto Rico, Wang quickly noticed just how many cats shared the streets.
Some kept their distance, while others seemed perfectly comfortable in front of the camera.
She photographed as many as she could.
Capturing precious feline encounters
While each encounter was unique and different, one cat stood out above the rest: a laid-back cat lounging in the sun.
“She had such a sweet personality and let me get close as she basked in the afternoon sun,” Wang told Traveling Cats. “As I zoomed in, I couldn’t help but focus on the adorable detail of the cat’s paws and feet – or “little peets,” as I like to call them.
In case you were wondering, peets = paws + feet. It’s an adorable term coined by one of my favorite YouTubers, Big Cat Derek.
Forever homes for furry friends
Wang’s connection to animals goes far beyond photography. When she travels, she often meets stray animals and wishes she could help them all find safe, loving homes.
During a trip to Taiwan, she felt the same pull while seeing stray dogs on the streets.
“This time, I wished I could give each of these Puerto Rican kitties tons of yummy proteins to munch on and take them back with me to my non-existent animal sanctuary where we’d all live happily ever after. Wishful thinking. Maybe one day.”
Until then—sweet kitties of San Juan.
About the photographer
Emily Wang is a Los Angeles–based photographer and videographer with a talent for capturing people, places, animals, and food in a compelling, authentic way. She shares her life with her three beloved dogs—Kokoro, Chibi, and Kibo.
When she’s not behind the camera, Emily can be found hiking scenic LA trails with her dogs, scuba diving, or traveling the world. At home, she enjoys experimenting with new recipes.
Inspired by Emily’s creative work? Collaborate with her to create striking, story-driven content. She has partnered with leading brands including Google, West Elm, BarkBox, Nestlé Purina, Reebok, LensCrafters, Amazon, ASUS, Petco, and Jack in the Box.
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