She was pleasantly surprised by just how great the cats’ lives seemed to be.

Shop Cats of New York: Adorable Portraits of Big City Felines

Tamar Arslanian got inspired to write “Shop Cats of New York,” a book about cats that plays a vital role in the Big City.

It all started when she posted photos on social media about two shop cats in her neighborhood. She was then overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and interest of her fellow New Yorkers.

“It’s then I began to realize how pervasive shop cats were in the city, and the important role they played in adding a touch of warmth – a sense of community even – in a place that can sometimes feel overwhelming and impersonal.” Arslanian said.

Tamar knows cats can play a vital role in a city

Arslanian had some important criteria on what cats to include in the book. She teamed up with photographer Andrew Marttila, who shot gorgeous portraits of the book’s feline stars.

“First and foremost, I wanted to to feel confident the cats were well cared for and beloved,” she said.

“My biggest ‘ah ha’ was realizing the level of stimulation and attention these cats received in comparison to most house cats, mine included,” she said. “I see my cats for about an hour before work and a few hours in the evenings during the week, but I can’t say I’m actively playing with them for very long. It made me realize the level of enrichment these cats were receiving on a daily basis. In some ways they could be viewed as having fuller lives than most cats living in more traditional homes.”

Matilda, a former shelter cat

Matilda was a former shelter cat. The Mascot and official greeter of the Algonquin Hotel in Times Square, Manhattan. “Algonquin cat” is a long standing tradition at the hotel.

Georgie

Georgie, one of two cat helpers who preside over the merchandise at Moo Shoes in the Lower East Side, Manhattan.

King Jeffie

Known as “King Jeffie,” he helps to keep mice away at Kings County Distillery in the Brooklyn Navy Yard.

A “customer therapist”

A “customer therapist” at Tent and Trails in Manhattan’s Financial District, and she sports a sparkly “diamond” collar.

Valentino

Valentino, of Carroll Gardens Realty Company in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn. Valentino got his name after being rescued from the snowy streets as a tiny kitten on Valentine’s Day.

On adopting cats to businesses

Tamar would like to see more animal shelters and rescue groups be open not just in traditional residences but in businesses as well.

“Businesses could be vetted as are most adopters, and assessed to ensure the business and cat are a good fit for one another". She said.

She also pointed out that not all cats have personalities that would suit to the business environment.

Way to go Tamar Arslanian. Good job and awesome idea. Keep up the good work!!!!!

“Authors like cats because they are such quiet, lovable, wise creatures; and cats like authors for the same reasons.”

- Robertson Davies​