🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 100 (from laksa181)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa100.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://styleblueprint.com/everyday/hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://styleblueprint.com/everyday/hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/everyday\/hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers\/","crawl_time":1775762439,"first_indexed_time":1773955757,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,styleblueprint!\/everyday\/hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers\/ s443","src_root_hash":"607855637419865700","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"6 Unexpected Spots for Cat Lovers in the South","meta_descriptions":["Perfect for cat lovers of all kinds, these hidden gems prove you don’t have to browse bookstores to meet a memorable feline."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Share with your friends!\nWhen you think “shop cat,” your thoughts likely drift to images of felines keeping watch on dusty bookshelves or dozing off in cozy corners. However, cats are quietly curling up in some of the most unexpected places around the South, including historic homes, hardware stores, and breweries. These hidden gems are proof that feline charm isn’t confined to the walls of a small-town bookshop.\nWe are grateful to all our sponsors:\nHemingway Home & Museum | Key West, FL\nMore Info:\nhemingwayhome.com\nMore than just a\nliterary landmark\n, the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum is a six-toed cat paradise. Nearly 60 polydactyl cats roam the grounds, including descendants of Snow White, a white six-toed cat given to Ernest Hemingway by a ship’s captain.\nThese local residents come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and personalities, and many still carry the polydactyl gene — just look for their signature “mitten paws.” True to Hemingway’s tradition, each cat is named after a famous person, like Billie Holiday or Isadora Duncan. (\nSB Tip: Some of the cats are even known to respond when you call their name\n!)\nApocalypse Brew Works | Louisville, KY\nMore Info:\napocalypsebrewworks.com\nWhile brewery cats often serve as unofficial pest control, Hiro and Pumpkin of Apocalypse Brew Works have become beloved fixtures in their own right. Named one of the brewery’s “first full-time employees,” Hiro arrived at Apocalypse years ago via a working cat program run by the local\nhumane society\n, which gives homes to “feral” felines. After the passing of his longtime companion Saki in 2023, Pumpkin joined the crew in 2024 to keep Hiro company.\nYou’ll often find Hiro and Pumpkin exploring the patio on warm days, greeting guests as they enter the taproom, or lounging on boxes in the back.\nPin\nPictured here is a tiny Pumpkin when she first got hired in 2024. Image:\nFacebook\nGuitar Pickers | Wilmington, NC\nMore Info:\nFacebook\nFender is the unofficial mascot of Guitar Pickers. This curious orange tabby wandered into owner Jason Ward’s life about six years ago, and rather than going to a shelter, he quickly became a permanent fixture in the shop. Now around nine years old, Fender has the classic orange cat personality: playful, food-motivated, and yes, he’s even a little round.\n“[Fender] loves playing and greeting all the customers,” says Jason, whether they’re stopping in for strings, amps, or just to say hello. Fender also has a furry friend next door at the neighborhood bass shop — Salamon, a tiny Chihuahua he loves to chase around.\nPin\n“[Fender] loves to hang out on the workbench in the back, where he plays with used guitar strings and loves sleeping by the register in the way of our work. We like to think he’s helping,” says Jason Ward, owner of Guitar Pickers. Image:\nGuitar Pickers\nInglewood Lounge | Nashville, TN\nMore Info:\ninglewoodlounge.com\nMs. Penny Flops (known to most simply as Penny) is new to the “shop cat” scene, having started showing up on Inglewood Lounge’s patio just a few months ago. Cared for by the surrounding neighborhood, Penny has claimed the lounge’s outdoor space as her personal kingdom, affectionately known as “Penny’s Place.”\n“Like clockwork, Penny shows up every evening for dinner. She’ll walk you to the door, nuzzling your leg for pets, then settle in on the patio while you sip your cocktail,” says General Manager Luke Zimmerman. While independent at times, she still enjoys a good cuddle and pet now and then. “Around here, she’s not just a neighborhood cat, she’s family. And honestly, she might run the place,” Luke adds.\nPin\n“After some research on Reddit, we discovered she’s known as ‘Penny’ or ‘Flops’ because she immediately flops down for pets,” says Luke Zimmerman. Image:\nMitzi Rose\nWe are grateful to all our sponsors:\nCrowder Bros. Ace Hardware | Lakeland, FL\nMore Info:\nacehardware.com\nAt Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware, a team of five cats keeps the aisles lively, and one named Irma is perhaps the most famous. She arrived around the time Hurricane Irma swept through Florida, earning her name from the storm that brought her to the team. Ever since, she’s patrolled the store.\nIrma works alongside her fellow feline employees Leo, LuLu, Whiskers, and Cali, who are all credited with keeping the store rodent-free and adding a touch of charm to daily life. “[The cats are] some of the best employees we have,” says Bruce Phillips, owner of Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware. “They bust their tails to get the work done, they work for food, and they don’t talk back! Maybe an occasional meow. Love their company when I’m at work!”\nPin\nIrma has a few favorite spots, including behind a broom display partition and atop the paint department boxes. Image:\nFacebook\nWe are grateful to all our sponsors:\nThe Poe Museum | Richmond, VA\nMore Info:\npoemuseum.org\nIn addition to honoring the legacy of famed poet Edgar Allen Poe, this museum is home to a few resident cats. In November 2012, three kittens were found in the museum’s Enchanted Garden: Edgar, Pluto, and Catterina.\n“Edgar and his brother Pluto became beloved mascots for the museum and often greeted visitors,” says Hannah Rupy, Marketing & Development Coordinator of The Poe Museum. After Pluto passed in 2024, Edgar took over as the museum’s resident greeter and socialite, while Catterina now lives with a former staff member.\nIn January 2024, the museum welcomed a new feline companion, Tib, named after Poe’s childhood cat. “Guests who have met Tib can attest to his rambunctious manner and curious nature,” says Hannah. Found at Richmond’s Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals as a two-month-old named Bones, Tib quickly settled in as a playful companion to Edgar. Today, visitors may spot Tib greeting guests in the gift shop, hiding among merchandise, or popping out from his favorite hiding spots.\nPin\nTib (left) is known for roaming and exploring the museum grounds, while Edgar (right) charms guests with his calm sophistication. Image:\nAshley Dobbin Calkins\nHappy cat spotting!\n**********\nKeep up with the best parts of life in the South. \nSubscribe to StyleBlueprint\n!","attrs_markdown":"[![StyleBlueprint: For a Life of Style + Substance](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20609%20140'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![StyleBlueprint: For a Life of Style + Substance](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/styleblueprint_logo_tagline.svg)](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/)\n\n- [Popular](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/popular\/)\n- [Latest](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/everyday\/)\n\nLocations\n\n#### Local\n- [Birmingham](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/birmingham\/)\n- [Louisville](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/louisville\/)\n- [Memphis](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/memphis\/)\n- [Nashville](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/nashville\/)\n\n#### Explore\n- [30A](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/30a\/)\n- [Alabama](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/alabama\/)\n- 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But across the South, cats are popping up in far more unexpected places. These hidden gems prove you don’t have to browse books to meet a memorable feline. Image: Ashley Dobbin Calkins\n\nMarch 19, 2026\n\n· By  [Brianna Goebel](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/author\/brianna-goebel\/)\n\n❤️ \\+\n\n6\n\n👍\n\n😍 2\n\n❤️ 4\n\n🎉\n\n👏\n\n[0](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/everyday\/hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers\/#comments)\n\nCopy Link\n\n[Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Feveryday%2Fhidden-gems-for-cat-lovers%2F)\n\n[Twitter](https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Feveryday%2Fhidden-gems-for-cat-lovers%2F&text=6+Unexpected+Spots+for+Cat+Lovers+in+the+South)\n\n[LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/sharing\/share-offsite\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Feveryday%2Fhidden-gems-for-cat-lovers%2F)\n\n[Pinterest](https:\/\/pinterest.com\/pin\/create\/button\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Feveryday%2Fhidden-gems-for-cat-lovers%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F03%2FSB-HiddenGems-CatLovers-Tibs-FEAT-Credit-AshleyDobbinCalkins-900x600.jpg&description=6+Unexpected+Spots+for+Cat+Lovers+in+the+South)\n\n[Add StyleBlueprint on Google](https:\/\/google.com\/preferences\/source?q=styleblueprint.com)\n\n![A black and white cat with a collar sits on a garden path, surrounded by greenery and a brick house—an ideal sight for cat lovers.](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/SB-HiddenGems-CatLovers-Tibs-FEAT-Credit-AshleyDobbinCalkins.jpg)\n\nPin\n\nShare with your friends\\!\n\n[Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Feveryday%2Fhidden-gems-for-cat-lovers%2F%3Futm_source%3Dfacebook%26utm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_campaign%3Dnovashare&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\n[Pinterest](https:\/\/pinterest.com\/pin\/create\/button\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Feveryday%2Fhidden-gems-for-cat-lovers%2F%3Futm_source%3Dpinterest%26utm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_campaign%3Dnovashare&media=https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/SB-HiddenGems-CatLovers-Tibs-FEAT-Credit-AshleyDobbinCalkins.jpg&description=6%20Unexpected%20Spots%20for%20Cat%20Lovers%20in%20the%20South&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\n[LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/shareArticle?title=6%20Unexpected%20Spots%20for%20Cat%20Lovers%20in%20the%20South&url=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Feveryday%2Fhidden-gems-for-cat-lovers%2F%3Futm_source%3Dlinkedin%26utm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_campaign%3Dnovashare&mini=true&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\n[Email](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/cdn-cgi\/l\/email-protection#437c303621292620377e75667173162d263b33262037262766717310332c3730667173252c316671730022376671730f2c352631306671732a2d667173372b26667173102c36372b65222e3378212c273a7e2b3737333066700266710566710530373a2f26212f362633312a2d376d202c2e667105263526313a27223a6671052b2a2727262d6e24262e306e252c316e2022376e2f2c3526313066710566700536372e1c302c36312026667007262e222a2f66717536372e1c2e26272a362e667007302c202a222f66717536372e1c20222e33222a242d6670072d2c3522302b223126)\n\n[Flipboard](https:\/\/share.flipboard.com\/bookmarklet\/popout?v=2&url=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Feveryday%2Fhidden-gems-for-cat-lovers%2F%3Futm_source%3Dflipboard%26utm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_campaign%3Dnovashare&title=6%20Unexpected%20Spots%20for%20Cat%20Lovers%20in%20the%20South&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\n[Reddit](https:\/\/www.reddit.com\/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Feveryday%2Fhidden-gems-for-cat-lovers%2F%3Futm_source%3Dreddit%26utm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_campaign%3Dnovashare&title=6%20Unexpected%20Spots%20for%20Cat%20Lovers%20in%20the%20South&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\nWhen you think “shop cat,” your thoughts likely drift to images of felines keeping watch on dusty bookshelves or dozing off in cozy corners. However, cats are quietly curling up in some of the most unexpected places around the South, including historic homes, hardware stores, and breweries. These hidden gems are proof that feline charm isn’t confined to the walls of a small-town bookshop.\n\nWe are grateful to all our sponsors:\n\n## Hemingway Home & Museum \\| Key West, FL\n*More Info:* [*hemingwayhome.com*](https:\/\/www.hemingwayhome.com\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\nMore than just a [literary landmark](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/everyday\/dreamy-bookstore-bars\/), the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum is a six-toed cat paradise. Nearly 60 polydactyl cats roam the grounds, including descendants of Snow White, a white six-toed cat given to Ernest Hemingway by a ship’s captain.\n\nThese local residents come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and personalities, and many still carry the polydactyl gene — just look for their signature “mitten paws.” True to Hemingway’s tradition, each cat is named after a famous person, like Billie Holiday or Isadora Duncan. (*SB Tip: Some of the cats are even known to respond when you call their name*!)\n\n![A gray and white cat lies on the ground in a shaded garden area, surrounded by green plants and sunlight—a perfect scene for cat lovers to admire.](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20675%20900'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![A gray and white cat lies on the ground in a shaded garden area, surrounded by green plants and sunlight—a perfect scene for cat lovers to admire.](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-HemingwayHome-Credit-AlissaHarb-675x900.jpg)\n\nPin\n\nLook closely, and you’ll see this [Hemingway Home](https:\/\/www.hemingwayhome.com\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) resident showing off its signature polydactyl paw. Image: [Alissa Harb](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/author\/alissa-harb\/)\n## Apocalypse Brew Works \\| Louisville, KY\n*More Info:* [*apocalypsebrewworks.com*](http:\/\/apocalypsebrewworks.com\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\nWhile brewery cats often serve as unofficial pest control, Hiro and Pumpkin of Apocalypse Brew Works have become beloved fixtures in their own right. Named one of the brewery’s “first full-time employees,” Hiro arrived at Apocalypse years ago via a working cat program run by the local [humane society](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/everyday\/lessons-from-my-foster-cats\/), which gives homes to “feral” felines. After the passing of his longtime companion Saki in 2023, Pumpkin joined the crew in 2024 to keep Hiro company.\n\nYou’ll often find Hiro and Pumpkin exploring the patio on warm days, greeting guests as they enter the taproom, or lounging on boxes in the back.\n\n![A black cat sits on a metal counter in front of cans of beer and brewing equipment, creating the perfect scene for cat lovers in a cozy brewery or bar setting.](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20648%20900'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![A black cat sits on a metal counter in front of cans of beer and brewing equipment, creating the perfect scene for cat lovers in a cozy brewery or bar setting.](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-Hiro-ApocalypseBrewWorks-Credit-FB-1-648x900.jpg)\n\nPin\n\nAs one of [Apocalypse Brew](http:\/\/apocalypsebrewworks.com\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) [Works](http:\/\/apocalypsebrewworks.com\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)‘s first full-time employees, Hiro still roams (and guards!) the taproom today. Image: [Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/photo\/?fbid=758107669657955&set=a.451963133605745&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\n![A man with a shaved head and plaid shirt stands with a white and orange cat in a harness resting on his shoulder.](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20774%20900'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![A man with a shaved head and plaid shirt stands with a white and orange cat in a harness resting on his shoulder.](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-Cat1-ApocalypseBrewWorks-Credit-FB-774x900.jpg)\n\nPin\n\nPictured here is a tiny Pumpkin when she first got hired in 2024. Image: [Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/photo.php?fbid=1086655690136483&set=pb.100063761852342.-2207520000&type=3&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n## Guitar Pickers \\| Wilmington, NC\n*More Info:* [*Facebook*](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/guitarpickersg\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\nFender is the unofficial mascot of Guitar Pickers. This curious orange tabby wandered into owner Jason Ward’s life about six years ago, and rather than going to a shelter, he quickly became a permanent fixture in the shop. Now around nine years old, Fender has the classic orange cat personality: playful, food-motivated, and yes, he’s even a little round.\n\n“\\[Fender\\] loves playing and greeting all the customers,” says Jason, whether they’re stopping in for strings, amps, or just to say hello. Fender also has a furry friend next door at the neighborhood bass shop — Salamon, a tiny Chihuahua he loves to chase around.\n\n![Orange and white cat resting its head on top of a guitar amplifier with visible control knobs—a charming sight for cat lovers.](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20600%20900'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Orange and white cat resting its head on top of a guitar amplifier with visible control knobs—a charming sight for cat lovers.](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-Fender-Credit-GuitarPickers-600x900.jpg)\n\nPin\n\n“\\[Fender\\] loves to hang out on the workbench in the back, where he plays with used guitar strings and loves sleeping by the register in the way of our work. We like to think he’s helping,” says Jason Ward, owner of Guitar Pickers. Image: [Guitar Pickers](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/guitarpickersg\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n## Inglewood Lounge \\| Nashville, TN\n*More Info:* [*inglewoodlounge.com*](https:\/\/www.inglewoodlounge.com\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\nMs. Penny Flops (known to most simply as Penny) is new to the “shop cat” scene, having started showing up on Inglewood Lounge’s patio just a few months ago. Cared for by the surrounding neighborhood, Penny has claimed the lounge’s outdoor space as her personal kingdom, affectionately known as “Penny’s Place.”\n\n“Like clockwork, Penny shows up every evening for dinner. She’ll walk you to the door, nuzzling your leg for pets, then settle in on the patio while you sip your cocktail,” says General Manager Luke Zimmerman. While independent at times, she still enjoys a good cuddle and pet now and then. “Around here, she’s not just a neighborhood cat, she’s family. And honestly, she might run the place,” Luke adds.\n\n![A person with a tattoo holds a white and orange cat indoors under colorful lighting, sharing a cozy moment perfect for cat lovers.](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20600%20900'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![A person with a tattoo holds a white and orange cat indoors under colorful lighting, sharing a cozy moment perfect for cat lovers.](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-Penny-InglewoodLounge-600x900.jpg)\n\nPin\n\n“After some research on Reddit, we discovered she’s known as ‘Penny’ or ‘Flops’ because she immediately flops down for pets,” says Luke Zimmerman. Image: [Mitzi Rose](https:\/\/whyfitin.com\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\nWe are grateful to all our sponsors:\n\n## Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware \\| Lakeland, FL\n*More Info:* [*acehardware.com*](https:\/\/www.acehardware.com\/store-details\/06897?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\nAt Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware, a team of five cats keeps the aisles lively, and one named Irma is perhaps the most famous. She arrived around the time Hurricane Irma swept through Florida, earning her name from the storm that brought her to the team. Ever since, she’s patrolled the store.\n\nIrma works alongside her fellow feline employees Leo, LuLu, Whiskers, and Cali, who are all credited with keeping the store rodent-free and adding a touch of charm to daily life. “\\[The cats are\\] some of the best employees we have,” says Bruce Phillips, owner of Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware. “They bust their tails to get the work done, they work for food, and they don’t talk back! Maybe an occasional meow. Love their company when I’m at work!”\n\n![A black cat sits on top of a display shelf under an Ace sign in a store, looking down at the camera—a charming sight sure to delight cat lovers.](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20900%20900'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![A black cat sits on top of a display shelf under an Ace sign in a store, looking down at the camera—a charming sight sure to delight cat lovers.](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-CrowderBros-Irma-Credit-FB-900x900.jpg)\n\nPin\n\nIrma has a few favorite spots, including behind a broom display partition and atop the paint department boxes. Image: [Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/photo\/?fbid=2016937101704948&set=pb.100054270201005.-2207520000&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\nWe are grateful to all our sponsors:\n\n## The Poe Museum \\| Richmond, VA\n*More Info: [poemuseum.org](https:\/\/poemuseum.org\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)*\n\nIn addition to honoring the legacy of famed poet Edgar Allen Poe, this museum is home to a few resident cats. In November 2012, three kittens were found in the museum’s Enchanted Garden: Edgar, Pluto, and Catterina.\n\n“Edgar and his brother Pluto became beloved mascots for the museum and often greeted visitors,” says Hannah Rupy, Marketing & Development Coordinator of The Poe Museum. After Pluto passed in 2024, Edgar took over as the museum’s resident greeter and socialite, while Catterina now lives with a former staff member.\n\n![A black cat with a white patch on its chest sits on a stone surface in front of a rough stone wall, wearing a collar with two rings—perfect for cat lovers to admire.](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20721%20900'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![A black cat with a white patch on its chest sits on a stone surface in front of a rough stone wall, wearing a collar with two rings—perfect for cat lovers to admire.](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/SB-HiddenGems-CatLovers-PoeMuseum-Edgar-Credit-AshleyDobbinCalkins-721x900.jpeg)\n\nPin\n\nMeet Edgar, [The Poe Museum](https:\/\/poemuseum.org\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)’s longtime greeter and resident socialite. Image: [Ashley Dobbin Calkins](https:\/\/www.ashleydobbincalkinsphotography.com\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\nIn January 2024, the museum welcomed a new feline companion, Tib, named after Poe’s childhood cat. “Guests who have met Tib can attest to his rambunctious manner and curious nature,” says Hannah. Found at Richmond’s Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals as a two-month-old named Bones, Tib quickly settled in as a playful companion to Edgar. Today, visitors may spot Tib greeting guests in the gift shop, hiding among merchandise, or popping out from his favorite hiding spots.\n\n![Cat lovers will adore these two black cats, one with a white chest and paws, sitting and standing on a stone surface in front of a stone wall, both proudly wearing collars with ID tags.](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20900%20600'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Cat lovers will adore these two black cats, one with a white chest and paws, sitting and standing on a stone surface in front of a stone wall, both proudly wearing collars with ID tags.](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/SB-HiddenGems-CatLovers-Tibs-Edgar-Credit-AshleyDobbinCalkins-900x600.jpg)\n\nPin\n\nTib (left) is known for roaming and exploring the museum grounds, while Edgar (right) charms guests with his calm sophistication. Image: [Ashley Dobbin Calkins](https:\/\/www.ashleydobbincalkinsphotography.com\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\n*Happy cat spotting\\!*\n\n\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\n\n*Keep up with the best parts of life in the South.* [*Subscribe to StyleBlueprint*](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/ac-subscribe\/)*\\!*\n\n[![Brianna Goebel](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20160%20160'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![Brianna Goebel](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Brianna2025-500x500.jpg)](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/author\/brianna-goebel\/)\n\n### [Brianna Goebel](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/author\/brianna-goebel\/)\nBrianna is StyleBlueprint’s Associate Editor and Sponsored Content Manager. 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Policy](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/corporate\/artificial-intelligence-policy\/)\n- [Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/everyday\/hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers\/)\n\nStyleBlueprint.com © 2026 \\| 4900 Centennial Blvd, Suite 300, Nashville, TN 37209\n\nThis site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply\n\n![StyleBlueprint Footer Logo](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20624%20128'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![StyleBlueprint Footer Logo](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/StyleBlueprint_logo-white.png)","attrs_readable_markdown":"Share with your friends\\!\n\nWhen you think “shop cat,” your thoughts likely drift to images of felines keeping watch on dusty bookshelves or dozing off in cozy corners. However, cats are quietly curling up in some of the most unexpected places around the South, including historic homes, hardware stores, and breweries. These hidden gems are proof that feline charm isn’t confined to the walls of a small-town bookshop.\n\nWe are grateful to all our sponsors:\n\n## Hemingway Home & Museum \\| Key West, FL\n*More Info:* [*hemingwayhome.com*](https:\/\/www.hemingwayhome.com\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\nMore than just a [literary landmark](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/everyday\/dreamy-bookstore-bars\/), the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum is a six-toed cat paradise. Nearly 60 polydactyl cats roam the grounds, including descendants of Snow White, a white six-toed cat given to Ernest Hemingway by a ship’s captain.\n\nThese local residents come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and personalities, and many still carry the polydactyl gene — just look for their signature “mitten paws.” True to Hemingway’s tradition, each cat is named after a famous person, like Billie Holiday or Isadora Duncan. (*SB Tip: Some of the cats are even known to respond when you call their name*!)\n\n## Apocalypse Brew Works \\| Louisville, KY\n*More Info:* [*apocalypsebrewworks.com*](http:\/\/apocalypsebrewworks.com\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\nWhile brewery cats often serve as unofficial pest control, Hiro and Pumpkin of Apocalypse Brew Works have become beloved fixtures in their own right. Named one of the brewery’s “first full-time employees,” Hiro arrived at Apocalypse years ago via a working cat program run by the local [humane society](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/everyday\/lessons-from-my-foster-cats\/), which gives homes to “feral” felines. After the passing of his longtime companion Saki in 2023, Pumpkin joined the crew in 2024 to keep Hiro company.\n\nYou’ll often find Hiro and Pumpkin exploring the patio on warm days, greeting guests as they enter the taproom, or lounging on boxes in the back.\n\n![A man with a shaved head and plaid shirt stands with a white and orange cat in a harness resting on his shoulder.](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-Cat1-ApocalypseBrewWorks-Credit-FB-774x900.jpg)\n\nPin\n\nPictured here is a tiny Pumpkin when she first got hired in 2024. Image: [Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/photo.php?fbid=1086655690136483&set=pb.100063761852342.-2207520000&type=3&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n## Guitar Pickers \\| Wilmington, NC\n*More Info:* [*Facebook*](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/guitarpickersg\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\nFender is the unofficial mascot of Guitar Pickers. This curious orange tabby wandered into owner Jason Ward’s life about six years ago, and rather than going to a shelter, he quickly became a permanent fixture in the shop. Now around nine years old, Fender has the classic orange cat personality: playful, food-motivated, and yes, he’s even a little round.\n\n“\\[Fender\\] loves playing and greeting all the customers,” says Jason, whether they’re stopping in for strings, amps, or just to say hello. Fender also has a furry friend next door at the neighborhood bass shop — Salamon, a tiny Chihuahua he loves to chase around.\n\n![Orange and white cat resting its head on top of a guitar amplifier with visible control knobs—a charming sight for cat lovers.](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-Fender-Credit-GuitarPickers-600x900.jpg)\n\nPin\n\n“\\[Fender\\] loves to hang out on the workbench in the back, where he plays with used guitar strings and loves sleeping by the register in the way of our work. We like to think he’s helping,” says Jason Ward, owner of Guitar Pickers. Image: [Guitar Pickers](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/guitarpickersg\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n## Inglewood Lounge \\| Nashville, TN\n*More Info:* [*inglewoodlounge.com*](https:\/\/www.inglewoodlounge.com\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\nMs. Penny Flops (known to most simply as Penny) is new to the “shop cat” scene, having started showing up on Inglewood Lounge’s patio just a few months ago. Cared for by the surrounding neighborhood, Penny has claimed the lounge’s outdoor space as her personal kingdom, affectionately known as “Penny’s Place.”\n\n“Like clockwork, Penny shows up every evening for dinner. She’ll walk you to the door, nuzzling your leg for pets, then settle in on the patio while you sip your cocktail,” says General Manager Luke Zimmerman. While independent at times, she still enjoys a good cuddle and pet now and then. “Around here, she’s not just a neighborhood cat, she’s family. And honestly, she might run the place,” Luke adds.\n\n![A person with a tattoo holds a white and orange cat indoors under colorful lighting, sharing a cozy moment perfect for cat lovers.](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-Penny-InglewoodLounge-600x900.jpg)\n\nPin\n\n“After some research on Reddit, we discovered she’s known as ‘Penny’ or ‘Flops’ because she immediately flops down for pets,” says Luke Zimmerman. Image: [Mitzi Rose](https:\/\/whyfitin.com\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\nWe are grateful to all our sponsors:\n\n## Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware \\| Lakeland, FL\n*More Info:* [*acehardware.com*](https:\/\/www.acehardware.com\/store-details\/06897?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\nAt Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware, a team of five cats keeps the aisles lively, and one named Irma is perhaps the most famous. She arrived around the time Hurricane Irma swept through Florida, earning her name from the storm that brought her to the team. Ever since, she’s patrolled the store.\n\nIrma works alongside her fellow feline employees Leo, LuLu, Whiskers, and Cali, who are all credited with keeping the store rodent-free and adding a touch of charm to daily life. “\\[The cats are\\] some of the best employees we have,” says Bruce Phillips, owner of Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware. “They bust their tails to get the work done, they work for food, and they don’t talk back! Maybe an occasional meow. Love their company when I’m at work!”\n\n![A black cat sits on top of a display shelf under an Ace sign in a store, looking down at the camera—a charming sight sure to delight cat lovers.](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-CrowderBros-Irma-Credit-FB-900x900.jpg)\n\nPin\n\nIrma has a few favorite spots, including behind a broom display partition and atop the paint department boxes. Image: [Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/photo\/?fbid=2016937101704948&set=pb.100054270201005.-2207520000&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\nWe are grateful to all our sponsors:\n\n## The Poe Museum \\| Richmond, VA\n*More Info: [poemuseum.org](https:\/\/poemuseum.org\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)*\n\nIn addition to honoring the legacy of famed poet Edgar Allen Poe, this museum is home to a few resident cats. In November 2012, three kittens were found in the museum’s Enchanted Garden: Edgar, Pluto, and Catterina.\n\n“Edgar and his brother Pluto became beloved mascots for the museum and often greeted visitors,” says Hannah Rupy, Marketing & Development Coordinator of The Poe Museum. After Pluto passed in 2024, Edgar took over as the museum’s resident greeter and socialite, while Catterina now lives with a former staff member.\n\nIn January 2024, the museum welcomed a new feline companion, Tib, named after Poe’s childhood cat. “Guests who have met Tib can attest to his rambunctious manner and curious nature,” says Hannah. Found at Richmond’s Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals as a two-month-old named Bones, Tib quickly settled in as a playful companion to Edgar. Today, visitors may spot Tib greeting guests in the gift shop, hiding among merchandise, or popping out from his favorite hiding spots.\n\n![Cat lovers will adore these two black cats, one with a white chest and paws, sitting and standing on a stone surface in front of a stone wall, both proudly wearing collars with ID tags.](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/SB-HiddenGems-CatLovers-Tibs-Edgar-Credit-AshleyDobbinCalkins-900x600.jpg)\n\nPin\n\nTib (left) is known for roaming and exploring the museum grounds, while Edgar (right) charms guests with his calm sophistication. Image: [Ashley Dobbin Calkins](https:\/\/www.ashleydobbincalkinsphotography.com\/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)\n\n*Happy cat spotting\\!*\n\n\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\\*\n\n*Keep up with the best parts of life in the South.* [*Subscribe to StyleBlueprint*](https:\/\/styleblueprint.com\/ac-subscribe\/)*\\!*","meta_canonical":null}

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URL	https://styleblueprint.com/everyday/hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers/
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Meta Title	6 Unexpected Spots for Cat Lovers in the South
Meta Description	Perfect for cat lovers of all kinds, these hidden gems prove you don’t have to browse bookstores to meet a memorable feline.
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Boilerpipe Text	Share with your friends! When you think “shop cat,” your thoughts likely drift to images of felines keeping watch on dusty bookshelves or dozing off in cozy corners. However, cats are quietly curling up in some of the most unexpected places around the South, including historic homes, hardware stores, and breweries. These hidden gems are proof that feline charm isn’t confined to the walls of a small-town bookshop. We are grateful to all our sponsors: Hemingway Home & Museum \| Key West, FL More Info: hemingwayhome.com More than just a literary landmark , the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum is a six-toed cat paradise. Nearly 60 polydactyl cats roam the grounds, including descendants of Snow White, a white six-toed cat given to Ernest Hemingway by a ship’s captain. These local residents come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and personalities, and many still carry the polydactyl gene — just look for their signature “mitten paws.” True to Hemingway’s tradition, each cat is named after a famous person, like Billie Holiday or Isadora Duncan. ( SB Tip: Some of the cats are even known to respond when you call their name !) Apocalypse Brew Works \| Louisville, KY More Info: apocalypsebrewworks.com While brewery cats often serve as unofficial pest control, Hiro and Pumpkin of Apocalypse Brew Works have become beloved fixtures in their own right. Named one of the brewery’s “first full-time employees,” Hiro arrived at Apocalypse years ago via a working cat program run by the local humane society , which gives homes to “feral” felines. After the passing of his longtime companion Saki in 2023, Pumpkin joined the crew in 2024 to keep Hiro company. You’ll often find Hiro and Pumpkin exploring the patio on warm days, greeting guests as they enter the taproom, or lounging on boxes in the back. Pin Pictured here is a tiny Pumpkin when she first got hired in 2024. Image: Facebook Guitar Pickers \| Wilmington, NC More Info: Facebook Fender is the unofficial mascot of Guitar Pickers. This curious orange tabby wandered into owner Jason Ward’s life about six years ago, and rather than going to a shelter, he quickly became a permanent fixture in the shop. Now around nine years old, Fender has the classic orange cat personality: playful, food-motivated, and yes, he’s even a little round. “[Fender] loves playing and greeting all the customers,” says Jason, whether they’re stopping in for strings, amps, or just to say hello. Fender also has a furry friend next door at the neighborhood bass shop — Salamon, a tiny Chihuahua he loves to chase around. Pin “[Fender] loves to hang out on the workbench in the back, where he plays with used guitar strings and loves sleeping by the register in the way of our work. We like to think he’s helping,” says Jason Ward, owner of Guitar Pickers. Image: Guitar Pickers Inglewood Lounge \| Nashville, TN More Info: inglewoodlounge.com Ms. Penny Flops (known to most simply as Penny) is new to the “shop cat” scene, having started showing up on Inglewood Lounge’s patio just a few months ago. Cared for by the surrounding neighborhood, Penny has claimed the lounge’s outdoor space as her personal kingdom, affectionately known as “Penny’s Place.” “Like clockwork, Penny shows up every evening for dinner. She’ll walk you to the door, nuzzling your leg for pets, then settle in on the patio while you sip your cocktail,” says General Manager Luke Zimmerman. While independent at times, she still enjoys a good cuddle and pet now and then. “Around here, she’s not just a neighborhood cat, she’s family. And honestly, she might run the place,” Luke adds. Pin “After some research on Reddit, we discovered she’s known as ‘Penny’ or ‘Flops’ because she immediately flops down for pets,” says Luke Zimmerman. Image: Mitzi Rose We are grateful to all our sponsors: Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware \| Lakeland, FL More Info: acehardware.com At Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware, a team of five cats keeps the aisles lively, and one named Irma is perhaps the most famous. She arrived around the time Hurricane Irma swept through Florida, earning her name from the storm that brought her to the team. Ever since, she’s patrolled the store. Irma works alongside her fellow feline employees Leo, LuLu, Whiskers, and Cali, who are all credited with keeping the store rodent-free and adding a touch of charm to daily life. “[The cats are] some of the best employees we have,” says Bruce Phillips, owner of Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware. “They bust their tails to get the work done, they work for food, and they don’t talk back! Maybe an occasional meow. Love their company when I’m at work!” Pin Irma has a few favorite spots, including behind a broom display partition and atop the paint department boxes. Image: Facebook We are grateful to all our sponsors: The Poe Museum \| Richmond, VA More Info: poemuseum.org In addition to honoring the legacy of famed poet Edgar Allen Poe, this museum is home to a few resident cats. In November 2012, three kittens were found in the museum’s Enchanted Garden: Edgar, Pluto, and Catterina. “Edgar and his brother Pluto became beloved mascots for the museum and often greeted visitors,” says Hannah Rupy, Marketing & Development Coordinator of The Poe Museum. After Pluto passed in 2024, Edgar took over as the museum’s resident greeter and socialite, while Catterina now lives with a former staff member. In January 2024, the museum welcomed a new feline companion, Tib, named after Poe’s childhood cat. “Guests who have met Tib can attest to his rambunctious manner and curious nature,” says Hannah. Found at Richmond’s Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals as a two-month-old named Bones, Tib quickly settled in as a playful companion to Edgar. Today, visitors may spot Tib greeting guests in the gift shop, hiding among merchandise, or popping out from his favorite hiding spots. Pin Tib (left) is known for roaming and exploring the museum grounds, while Edgar (right) charms guests with his calm sophistication. Image: Ashley Dobbin Calkins Happy cat spotting! ********** Keep up with the best parts of life in the South. Subscribe to StyleBlueprint !
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But across the South, cats are popping up in far more unexpected places. These hidden gems prove you don’t have to browse books to meet a memorable feline. Image: Ashley Dobbin Calkins March 19, 2026 · By [Brianna Goebel](https://styleblueprint.com/author/brianna-goebel/) ❤️ \+ 6 👍 😍 2 ❤️ 4 🎉 👏 [0](https://styleblueprint.com/everyday/hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers/#comments) Copy Link [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Feveryday%2Fhidden-gems-for-cat-lovers%2F) [Twitter](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Feveryday%2Fhidden-gems-for-cat-lovers%2F&text=6+Unexpected+Spots+for+Cat+Lovers+in+the+South) [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/sharing/share-offsite/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Feveryday%2Fhidden-gems-for-cat-lovers%2F) [Pinterest](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Feveryday%2Fhidden-gems-for-cat-lovers%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F03%2FSB-HiddenGems-CatLovers-Tibs-FEAT-Credit-AshleyDobbinCalkins-900x600.jpg&description=6+Unexpected+Spots+for+Cat+Lovers+in+the+South) [Add StyleBlueprint on Google](https://google.com/preferences/source?q=styleblueprint.com) ![A black and white cat with a collar sits on a garden path, surrounded by greenery and a brick house—an ideal sight for cat lovers.](https://styleblueprint.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SB-HiddenGems-CatLovers-Tibs-FEAT-Credit-AshleyDobbinCalkins.jpg) Pin Share with your friends\! [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Feveryday%2Fhidden-gems-for-cat-lovers%2F%3Futm_source%3Dfacebook%26utm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_campaign%3Dnovashare&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) [Pinterest](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Feveryday%2Fhidden-gems-for-cat-lovers%2F%3Futm_source%3Dpinterest%26utm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_campaign%3Dnovashare&media=https://styleblueprint.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SB-HiddenGems-CatLovers-Tibs-FEAT-Credit-AshleyDobbinCalkins.jpg&description=6%20Unexpected%20Spots%20for%20Cat%20Lovers%20in%20the%20South&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?title=6%20Unexpected%20Spots%20for%20Cat%20Lovers%20in%20the%20South&url=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Feveryday%2Fhidden-gems-for-cat-lovers%2F%3Futm_source%3Dlinkedin%26utm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_campaign%3Dnovashare&mini=true&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) [Email](https://styleblueprint.com/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#437c303621292620377e75667173162d263b33262037262766717310332c3730667173252c316671730022376671730f2c352631306671732a2d667173372b26667173102c36372b65222e3378212c273a7e2b3737333066700266710566710530373a2f26212f362633312a2d376d202c2e667105263526313a27223a6671052b2a2727262d6e24262e306e252c316e2022376e2f2c3526313066710566700536372e1c302c36312026667007262e222a2f66717536372e1c2e26272a362e667007302c202a222f66717536372e1c20222e33222a242d6670072d2c3522302b223126) [Flipboard](https://share.flipboard.com/bookmarklet/popout?v=2&url=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Feveryday%2Fhidden-gems-for-cat-lovers%2F%3Futm_source%3Dflipboard%26utm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_campaign%3Dnovashare&title=6%20Unexpected%20Spots%20for%20Cat%20Lovers%20in%20the%20South&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) [Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Fstyleblueprint.com%2Feveryday%2Fhidden-gems-for-cat-lovers%2F%3Futm_source%3Dreddit%26utm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_campaign%3Dnovashare&title=6%20Unexpected%20Spots%20for%20Cat%20Lovers%20in%20the%20South&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) When you think “shop cat,” your thoughts likely drift to images of felines keeping watch on dusty bookshelves or dozing off in cozy corners. However, cats are quietly curling up in some of the most unexpected places around the South, including historic homes, hardware stores, and breweries. These hidden gems are proof that feline charm isn’t confined to the walls of a small-town bookshop. We are grateful to all our sponsors: ## Hemingway Home & Museum \\| Key West, FL More Info: [hemingwayhome.com](https://www.hemingwayhome.com/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) More than just a [literary landmark](https://styleblueprint.com/everyday/dreamy-bookstore-bars/), the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum is a six-toed cat paradise. Nearly 60 polydactyl cats roam the grounds, including descendants of Snow White, a white six-toed cat given to Ernest Hemingway by a ship’s captain. These local residents come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and personalities, and many still carry the polydactyl gene — just look for their signature “mitten paws.” True to Hemingway’s tradition, each cat is named after a famous person, like Billie Holiday or Isadora Duncan. (SB Tip: Some of the cats are even known to respond when you call their name!) ![A gray and white cat lies on the ground in a shaded garden area, surrounded by green plants and sunlight—a perfect scene for cat lovers to admire.](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20675%20900'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![A gray and white cat lies on the ground in a shaded garden area, surrounded by green plants and sunlight—a perfect scene for cat lovers to admire.](https://styleblueprint.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-HemingwayHome-Credit-AlissaHarb-675x900.jpg) Pin Look closely, and you’ll see this [Hemingway Home](https://www.hemingwayhome.com/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) resident showing off its signature polydactyl paw. Image: [Alissa Harb](https://styleblueprint.com/author/alissa-harb/) ## Apocalypse Brew Works \\| Louisville, KY More Info: [apocalypsebrewworks.com](http://apocalypsebrewworks.com/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) While brewery cats often serve as unofficial pest control, Hiro and Pumpkin of Apocalypse Brew Works have become beloved fixtures in their own right. Named one of the brewery’s “first full-time employees,” Hiro arrived at Apocalypse years ago via a working cat program run by the local [humane society](https://styleblueprint.com/everyday/lessons-from-my-foster-cats/), which gives homes to “feral” felines. After the passing of his longtime companion Saki in 2023, Pumpkin joined the crew in 2024 to keep Hiro company. You’ll often find Hiro and Pumpkin exploring the patio on warm days, greeting guests as they enter the taproom, or lounging on boxes in the back. ![A black cat sits on a metal counter in front of cans of beer and brewing equipment, creating the perfect scene for cat lovers in a cozy brewery or bar setting.](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20648%20900'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![A black cat sits on a metal counter in front of cans of beer and brewing equipment, creating the perfect scene for cat lovers in a cozy brewery or bar setting.](https://styleblueprint.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-Hiro-ApocalypseBrewWorks-Credit-FB-1-648x900.jpg) Pin As one of [Apocalypse Brew](http://apocalypsebrewworks.com/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) [Works](http://apocalypsebrewworks.com/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)‘s first full-time employees, Hiro still roams (and guards!) the taproom today. Image: [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=758107669657955&set=a.451963133605745&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) ![A man with a shaved head and plaid shirt stands with a white and orange cat in a harness resting on his shoulder.](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20774%20900'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![A man with a shaved head and plaid shirt stands with a white and orange cat in a harness resting on his shoulder.](https://styleblueprint.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-Cat1-ApocalypseBrewWorks-Credit-FB-774x900.jpg) Pin Pictured here is a tiny Pumpkin when she first got hired in 2024. Image: [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1086655690136483&set=pb.100063761852342.-2207520000&type=3&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) ## Guitar Pickers \\| Wilmington, NC More Info: [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/guitarpickersg/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) Fender is the unofficial mascot of Guitar Pickers. This curious orange tabby wandered into owner Jason Ward’s life about six years ago, and rather than going to a shelter, he quickly became a permanent fixture in the shop. Now around nine years old, Fender has the classic orange cat personality: playful, food-motivated, and yes, he’s even a little round. “\[Fender\] loves playing and greeting all the customers,” says Jason, whether they’re stopping in for strings, amps, or just to say hello. Fender also has a furry friend next door at the neighborhood bass shop — Salamon, a tiny Chihuahua he loves to chase around. ![Orange and white cat resting its head on top of a guitar amplifier with visible control knobs—a charming sight for cat lovers.](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20600%20900'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Orange and white cat resting its head on top of a guitar amplifier with visible control knobs—a charming sight for cat lovers.](https://styleblueprint.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-Fender-Credit-GuitarPickers-600x900.jpg) Pin “\[Fender\] loves to hang out on the workbench in the back, where he plays with used guitar strings and loves sleeping by the register in the way of our work. We like to think he’s helping,” says Jason Ward, owner of Guitar Pickers. Image: [Guitar Pickers](https://www.facebook.com/guitarpickersg/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) ## Inglewood Lounge \\| Nashville, TN More Info: [inglewoodlounge.com](https://www.inglewoodlounge.com/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) Ms. Penny Flops (known to most simply as Penny) is new to the “shop cat” scene, having started showing up on Inglewood Lounge’s patio just a few months ago. Cared for by the surrounding neighborhood, Penny has claimed the lounge’s outdoor space as her personal kingdom, affectionately known as “Penny’s Place.” “Like clockwork, Penny shows up every evening for dinner. She’ll walk you to the door, nuzzling your leg for pets, then settle in on the patio while you sip your cocktail,” says General Manager Luke Zimmerman. While independent at times, she still enjoys a good cuddle and pet now and then. “Around here, she’s not just a neighborhood cat, she’s family. And honestly, she might run the place,” Luke adds. ![A person with a tattoo holds a white and orange cat indoors under colorful lighting, sharing a cozy moment perfect for cat lovers.](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20600%20900'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![A person with a tattoo holds a white and orange cat indoors under colorful lighting, sharing a cozy moment perfect for cat lovers.](https://styleblueprint.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-Penny-InglewoodLounge-600x900.jpg) Pin “After some research on Reddit, we discovered she’s known as ‘Penny’ or ‘Flops’ because she immediately flops down for pets,” says Luke Zimmerman. Image: [Mitzi Rose](https://whyfitin.com/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) We are grateful to all our sponsors: ## Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware \\| Lakeland, FL More Info: [acehardware.com](https://www.acehardware.com/store-details/06897?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) At Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware, a team of five cats keeps the aisles lively, and one named Irma is perhaps the most famous. She arrived around the time Hurricane Irma swept through Florida, earning her name from the storm that brought her to the team. Ever since, she’s patrolled the store. Irma works alongside her fellow feline employees Leo, LuLu, Whiskers, and Cali, who are all credited with keeping the store rodent-free and adding a touch of charm to daily life. “\[The cats are\] some of the best employees we have,” says Bruce Phillips, owner of Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware. “They bust their tails to get the work done, they work for food, and they don’t talk back! Maybe an occasional meow. Love their company when I’m at work!” ![A black cat sits on top of a display shelf under an Ace sign in a store, looking down at the camera—a charming sight sure to delight cat lovers.](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20900%20900'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![A black cat sits on top of a display shelf under an Ace sign in a store, looking down at the camera—a charming sight sure to delight cat lovers.](https://styleblueprint.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-CrowderBros-Irma-Credit-FB-900x900.jpg) Pin Irma has a few favorite spots, including behind a broom display partition and atop the paint department boxes. Image: [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=2016937101704948&set=pb.100054270201005.-2207520000&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) We are grateful to all our sponsors: ## The Poe Museum \\| Richmond, VA More Info: [poemuseum.org](https://poemuseum.org/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) In addition to honoring the legacy of famed poet Edgar Allen Poe, this museum is home to a few resident cats. In November 2012, three kittens were found in the museum’s Enchanted Garden: Edgar, Pluto, and Catterina. “Edgar and his brother Pluto became beloved mascots for the museum and often greeted visitors,” says Hannah Rupy, Marketing & Development Coordinator of The Poe Museum. After Pluto passed in 2024, Edgar took over as the museum’s resident greeter and socialite, while Catterina now lives with a former staff member. ![A black cat with a white patch on its chest sits on a stone surface in front of a rough stone wall, wearing a collar with two rings—perfect for cat lovers to admire.](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20721%20900'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![A black cat with a white patch on its chest sits on a stone surface in front of a rough stone wall, wearing a collar with two rings—perfect for cat lovers to admire.](https://styleblueprint.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SB-HiddenGems-CatLovers-PoeMuseum-Edgar-Credit-AshleyDobbinCalkins-721x900.jpeg) Pin Meet Edgar, [The Poe Museum](https://poemuseum.org/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link)’s longtime greeter and resident socialite. Image: [Ashley Dobbin Calkins](https://www.ashleydobbincalkinsphotography.com/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) In January 2024, the museum welcomed a new feline companion, Tib, named after Poe’s childhood cat. “Guests who have met Tib can attest to his rambunctious manner and curious nature,” says Hannah. Found at Richmond’s Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals as a two-month-old named Bones, Tib quickly settled in as a playful companion to Edgar. Today, visitors may spot Tib greeting guests in the gift shop, hiding among merchandise, or popping out from his favorite hiding spots. ![Cat lovers will adore these two black cats, one with a white chest and paws, sitting and standing on a stone surface in front of a stone wall, both proudly wearing collars with ID tags.](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20900%20600'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Cat lovers will adore these two black cats, one with a white chest and paws, sitting and standing on a stone surface in front of a stone wall, both proudly wearing collars with ID tags.](https://styleblueprint.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SB-HiddenGems-CatLovers-Tibs-Edgar-Credit-AshleyDobbinCalkins-900x600.jpg) Pin Tib (left) is known for roaming and exploring the museum grounds, while Edgar (right) charms guests with his calm sophistication. Image: [Ashley Dobbin Calkins](https://www.ashleydobbincalkinsphotography.com/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) Happy cat spotting\! \\\\\\\\\\ Keep up with the best parts of life in the South. [Subscribe to StyleBlueprint](https://styleblueprint.com/ac-subscribe/)\! [![Brianna Goebel](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20160%20160'%3E%3C/svg%3E)![Brianna Goebel](https://styleblueprint.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Brianna2025-500x500.jpg)](https://styleblueprint.com/author/brianna-goebel/) ### [Brianna Goebel](https://styleblueprint.com/author/brianna-goebel/) Brianna is StyleBlueprint’s Associate Editor and Sponsored Content Manager. She is an avid fan of iced coffee and spends her free time reading romance novels. 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Readable Markdown	Share with your friends\! When you think “shop cat,” your thoughts likely drift to images of felines keeping watch on dusty bookshelves or dozing off in cozy corners. However, cats are quietly curling up in some of the most unexpected places around the South, including historic homes, hardware stores, and breweries. These hidden gems are proof that feline charm isn’t confined to the walls of a small-town bookshop. We are grateful to all our sponsors: ## Hemingway Home & Museum \\| Key West, FL More Info: [hemingwayhome.com](https://www.hemingwayhome.com/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) More than just a [literary landmark](https://styleblueprint.com/everyday/dreamy-bookstore-bars/), the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum is a six-toed cat paradise. Nearly 60 polydactyl cats roam the grounds, including descendants of Snow White, a white six-toed cat given to Ernest Hemingway by a ship’s captain. These local residents come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and personalities, and many still carry the polydactyl gene — just look for their signature “mitten paws.” True to Hemingway’s tradition, each cat is named after a famous person, like Billie Holiday or Isadora Duncan. (SB Tip: Some of the cats are even known to respond when you call their name!) ## Apocalypse Brew Works \\| Louisville, KY More Info: [apocalypsebrewworks.com](http://apocalypsebrewworks.com/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) While brewery cats often serve as unofficial pest control, Hiro and Pumpkin of Apocalypse Brew Works have become beloved fixtures in their own right. Named one of the brewery’s “first full-time employees,” Hiro arrived at Apocalypse years ago via a working cat program run by the local [humane society](https://styleblueprint.com/everyday/lessons-from-my-foster-cats/), which gives homes to “feral” felines. After the passing of his longtime companion Saki in 2023, Pumpkin joined the crew in 2024 to keep Hiro company. You’ll often find Hiro and Pumpkin exploring the patio on warm days, greeting guests as they enter the taproom, or lounging on boxes in the back. ![A man with a shaved head and plaid shirt stands with a white and orange cat in a harness resting on his shoulder.](https://styleblueprint.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-Cat1-ApocalypseBrewWorks-Credit-FB-774x900.jpg) Pin Pictured here is a tiny Pumpkin when she first got hired in 2024. Image: [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1086655690136483&set=pb.100063761852342.-2207520000&type=3&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) ## Guitar Pickers \\| Wilmington, NC More Info: [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/guitarpickersg/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) Fender is the unofficial mascot of Guitar Pickers. This curious orange tabby wandered into owner Jason Ward’s life about six years ago, and rather than going to a shelter, he quickly became a permanent fixture in the shop. Now around nine years old, Fender has the classic orange cat personality: playful, food-motivated, and yes, he’s even a little round. “\[Fender\] loves playing and greeting all the customers,” says Jason, whether they’re stopping in for strings, amps, or just to say hello. Fender also has a furry friend next door at the neighborhood bass shop — Salamon, a tiny Chihuahua he loves to chase around. ![Orange and white cat resting its head on top of a guitar amplifier with visible control knobs—a charming sight for cat lovers.](https://styleblueprint.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-Fender-Credit-GuitarPickers-600x900.jpg) Pin “\[Fender\] loves to hang out on the workbench in the back, where he plays with used guitar strings and loves sleeping by the register in the way of our work. We like to think he’s helping,” says Jason Ward, owner of Guitar Pickers. Image: [Guitar Pickers](https://www.facebook.com/guitarpickersg/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) ## Inglewood Lounge \\| Nashville, TN More Info: [inglewoodlounge.com](https://www.inglewoodlounge.com/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) Ms. Penny Flops (known to most simply as Penny) is new to the “shop cat” scene, having started showing up on Inglewood Lounge’s patio just a few months ago. Cared for by the surrounding neighborhood, Penny has claimed the lounge’s outdoor space as her personal kingdom, affectionately known as “Penny’s Place.” “Like clockwork, Penny shows up every evening for dinner. She’ll walk you to the door, nuzzling your leg for pets, then settle in on the patio while you sip your cocktail,” says General Manager Luke Zimmerman. While independent at times, she still enjoys a good cuddle and pet now and then. “Around here, she’s not just a neighborhood cat, she’s family. And honestly, she might run the place,” Luke adds. ![A person with a tattoo holds a white and orange cat indoors under colorful lighting, sharing a cozy moment perfect for cat lovers.](https://styleblueprint.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-Penny-InglewoodLounge-600x900.jpg) Pin “After some research on Reddit, we discovered she’s known as ‘Penny’ or ‘Flops’ because she immediately flops down for pets,” says Luke Zimmerman. Image: [Mitzi Rose](https://whyfitin.com/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) We are grateful to all our sponsors: ## Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware \\| Lakeland, FL More Info: [acehardware.com](https://www.acehardware.com/store-details/06897?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) At Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware, a team of five cats keeps the aisles lively, and one named Irma is perhaps the most famous. She arrived around the time Hurricane Irma swept through Florida, earning her name from the storm that brought her to the team. Ever since, she’s patrolled the store. Irma works alongside her fellow feline employees Leo, LuLu, Whiskers, and Cali, who are all credited with keeping the store rodent-free and adding a touch of charm to daily life. “\[The cats are\] some of the best employees we have,” says Bruce Phillips, owner of Crowder Bros. Ace Hardware. “They bust their tails to get the work done, they work for food, and they don’t talk back! Maybe an occasional meow. Love their company when I’m at work!” ![A black cat sits on top of a display shelf under an Ace sign in a store, looking down at the camera—a charming sight sure to delight cat lovers.](https://styleblueprint.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SB-CatLoverHiddenGems-CrowderBros-Irma-Credit-FB-900x900.jpg) Pin Irma has a few favorite spots, including behind a broom display partition and atop the paint department boxes. Image: [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=2016937101704948&set=pb.100054270201005.-2207520000&utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) We are grateful to all our sponsors: ## The Poe Museum \\| Richmond, VA More Info: [poemuseum.org](https://poemuseum.org/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) In addition to honoring the legacy of famed poet Edgar Allen Poe, this museum is home to a few resident cats. In November 2012, three kittens were found in the museum’s Enchanted Garden: Edgar, Pluto, and Catterina. “Edgar and his brother Pluto became beloved mascots for the museum and often greeted visitors,” says Hannah Rupy, Marketing & Development Coordinator of The Poe Museum. After Pluto passed in 2024, Edgar took over as the museum’s resident greeter and socialite, while Catterina now lives with a former staff member. In January 2024, the museum welcomed a new feline companion, Tib, named after Poe’s childhood cat. “Guests who have met Tib can attest to his rambunctious manner and curious nature,” says Hannah. Found at Richmond’s Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals as a two-month-old named Bones, Tib quickly settled in as a playful companion to Edgar. Today, visitors may spot Tib greeting guests in the gift shop, hiding among merchandise, or popping out from his favorite hiding spots. ![Cat lovers will adore these two black cats, one with a white chest and paws, sitting and standing on a stone surface in front of a stone wall, both proudly wearing collars with ID tags.](https://styleblueprint.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SB-HiddenGems-CatLovers-Tibs-Edgar-Credit-AshleyDobbinCalkins-900x600.jpg) Pin Tib (left) is known for roaming and exploring the museum grounds, while Edgar (right) charms guests with his calm sophistication. Image: [Ashley Dobbin Calkins](https://www.ashleydobbincalkinsphotography.com/?utm_source=styleblueprint&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=styleblueprint-hidden-gems-for-cat-lovers&utm_content=styleblueprint-editorial-link) Happy cat spotting\! \\\\\\\\\\ Keep up with the best parts of life in the South. [Subscribe to StyleBlueprint](https://styleblueprint.com/ac-subscribe/)\!
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