While having a resident cat has helped prospective guests ultimately decide to make a reservation, the first thing return guests want to know is “Where is Captain Nemo?” if he’s not in the foyer to greet them upon arrival.

“Captain Nemo has a natural affinity for those who have pets at home and are missing their own cat companion,” Kenaston says. “Regular guests will leave their doors open and are delighted when he stays with them.”

Captain Nemo, a black beauty (with white chest patch), had been a hard-to-place feral kitten when he came to the hotel some 10 years ago. But the Kenastons felt confident he’d mellow once he was placed in a loving environment.

“I can’t imagine the place without him,” Kenaston adds.

• • • •

Guests are initially attracted to the resident cats at Hollileif Bed and Breakfast in Newtown, Pennsylvania because of their unusual silver coloring. But it doesn’t take long for three-year-old Jenny, a silver tabby American Shorthair, and Furgy, an 11-year-old silver tabby exotic shorthair, to win their hearts, explains co-owner Ellen Butkus.

“People who love cats really enjoy their company,” Butkus says.

She said guests often frequent a local cat-themed store and buy gifts for the girls. Likewise, thank-you notes are addressed to the cats rather than the Butkuses.

Without a doubt, resident cats add much to a guest’s stay. While each cat is unique, they do all have the same effect on these inns. They make a house a home.

Copyright © 2000 by Susan Bard Hall. All rights reserved.

This article first ran in the August 2000 issue of Cats.