Calvin T. Katz is the Most Interesting Cat in the World: An Exclusive

He has a cape that makes Batman jealous. He had 18 lives but gave some away. The world actually does revolve around him. His purrs cure cancer, impetigo, and ingrown toenails.

Who is he? Calvin Tiberius Katz, The Most Interesting Cat in the World.

Who Is Calvin T. Katz?

I knew Calvin was special when he came to live with me. But it wasn’t until I posted a photo of him on Facebook that I knew just how interesting he was.

His photo went viral. Hundreds of thousands of people have shared, commented on, or looked in awe upon his photogenic visage.

Now that he’s been unmasked (though, technically, his mask is firmly attached) and is recognized around the world, Calvin has made my life more ... interesting. He demanded the most expensive brand of cat food -- and then refused to eat it because it wasn’t served at the right temperature. He redecorated the bathroom, scattering kitty litter in a perfectly accurate representation of the stars in the Milky Way. He barfed in a carefully selected spot on the Persian rug -- placed to blend in with the pattern so flawlessly that the only way I found it was to step in it.

One might say that’s every day at my house, but it's different for me now that my cat is famous. I thought I knew Calvin, but I realized all this time I hadn't understood who he really is. I wanted to change that, to learn more about this man cat of mystery. After repeated requests, Calvin granted me an interview. I was honored. He spoke to me from within the comfortable borders of one of the dog beds.

The Interview

1. What makes you The Most Interesting Cat in the World?

If you have to ask, you wouldn't understand.

2. How long have you been The Most Interesting Cat in the World?

All my lives. It was you who didn’t know.

3. All your lives? How many do you have?

I have 18 but gave some away to shelter cats.

4. What is your relationship with dogs whose beds you routinely use?

They happily give up their beds for me. Later, they argue over who can sleep in the bed after I leave.

5. What about the other cats you share your home with?

What is this word, “share?”

6. When I searched the web for the Most Interesting Cat in the World, a picture showed up that wasn’t you. What's that all about?

That was merely a meme. I am the real thing.

You seem pretty confident. I might even say full of yourself.

I am a cat. Next question? Ask me something ... interesting.

7. I’ve always wondered how you find all the sun puddles in the house.

You’re asking the wrong question. You should be asking how it is the sun always knows where to find me.

8. Will you ever catch that red dot?

Oh, I’m just toying with it. If I really wanted it, it would be mine.

9. Where are you when I call you and can’t find you anywhere in the house?

[Silence. Calvin stares at me through narrowed eyes. Flicks his tail.]

Sorry.

10. Is anything different now that you’re famous?

My staff has begun treating me with more respect.

11. And by staff you mean me?

Yes.

12. Anything else change?

I now have a Facebook page. Though Facebook has asked if it can rename itself to Calvinbook in my honor. I, of course, replied that such a move isn’t necessary.

13. What’s next for you?

A nap.

14. Any advice for other cats out there?

Be comfy, my friends.

Conclusion

You can read more about Calvin T. Katz (and the rest of the cats and dogs he lives with) on the website Life with Dogs and Cats. You can also follow the Most Interesting Cat in the World on Facebook, Twitter (@CalvinTKatz) and Instagram: Calvin, Most Interesting Cat (calvintkatz).

About the author: Susan C. Willett is a writer, photographer, and blogger whose award-winning original stories, photography, poetry, and humor can be found at Life With Dogs and Cats. She lives in New Jersey with four cats (including Calvin T. Katz, the Most Interesting Cat in the World) and three dogs (all rescues) and at least a couple of humans -- all of whom provide inspiration for her work. Refusing to take sides in the interweb's dogs vs. cats debate, Susan enjoys observing the interspecies interaction among the varied inhabitants of her home -- like living in a reality TV show, only furrier. In addition to Life With Dogs and Cats, you can find more Dawn, Athena, Calvin and Elsa Clair (and the rest of the gang) on Haiku by Dog™, Haiku by Cat™, and Dogs and Cats Texting.

Feature Image Credit: Portrait of Calvin Tiberius Katz, The Most Interesting Cat in the World