Celebrate Our Furry Friends: Winners of the Catster Photo Contest Revealed

Discover the Huddersfield Train Station Cats and Their Legacy

Update All Aboard the Huddersfield Train Station Cats: A Feline Phenomenon Cats have held a remarkable role in human society, often working alongside us for various tasks, particularly in pest control. But where you might typically find them in barns or warehouses, they've also made an unexpected appearance at Huddersfield Train Station in West Yorkshire, England. Here, two charismatic cats, Felix and Bolt, have not only served as pest controllers but have also captured the hearts of commuters and online fans alike. Felix: The Beloved Icon Felix, a charming black and white cat with beautiful green eyes, joined the railway team as a Senior Pest Controller in 2011 at a mere six weeks old. Quickly becoming a beloved figure among train passengers, she rose to fame, thanks in part to a fan page created by an avid admirer. Not only was Felix a diligent worker, assisting in raising over £200,000 for charity and contributing to various community events, but her adventurous spirit was captured in the book, Felix the Railway Cat, which tells tales of her heroic deeds, including comforting lost children. The impact of Felix extended well beyond pest control; she was an essential part of the station's community spirit and became synonymous with Huddersfield Station. Her social media presence attracted attention both locally and globally, showcasing how a pet could become an ambassador for a place. Bolting Ahead: Bolt Takes the Reins In 2019, Bolt, a focused black cat, began his apprentice journey under Felix, preparing to take over her role. After Felix's unfortunate passing in December 2023, Bolt was ready to step up as the new Senior Pest Controller. In addition to maintaining pest control duties, Bolt brought his unique personality to the station; his short reign as a social media sensation continued to delight fans. Excitingly, in July 2025, Bolt retired, having chosen a new home with his 'station mom' Jacqui and his friend Buddy. The decision marks a significant transition for the station as they undergo renovations. The void left by these two cats has many hopeful for the eventual return of feline companions to the station! Exploring the Tradition of Railway Cats The story of Felix and Bolt is not an isolated one in the world of railways. Japan has embraced the idea of station cats more formally, exemplified by the calico cat named Gotama. Appointed in her official capacity as Stationmaster, Gotama has even gotten her own work schedule published, ensuring her tasks are as structured as any human counterpart. The legacy of station cats like Tama, the original Japanese Stationmaster, has grown over the years. Tama, who was initially hired to attract visitors, even has a shrine dedicated to her memory, illustrating the emotional bonds these cats can create. As the world sees the growing popularity of cats in such roles, it highlights not only their effectiveness but also the joy they bring to people. The Role of Feline Companions in Mental Well-Being The charming tales of Felix and Bolt serve a larger purpose than just pest control or bringing smiles—there's a growing body of research illustrating the profound effects pets, including cats, can have on human mental health. For veterinarians and the pet care community, these stories underscore the benefits of animals in public spaces and their ability to enhance human interaction. In therapy settings, the presence of animals can alleviate anxiety and create a comforting atmosphere. The palpable joy and engagement demonstrated by Felix and Bolt provide a perfect example of how animals serve not only as companions but as vital cogs in fostering community spirit. Looking to the Future: What’s Next for Huddersfield? As Huddersfield Station navigates its renovation, anticipation builds around the hiring of new feline controllers. Communities thrive on their local legends, and the presence of new “station cats” would undeniably contribute positively not only to pest control but also to enhancing the travel experience. Potential candidates for the position could come from local shelters, further promoting pet adoption and advocacy—a message that resonates with many in the veterinary, rescue, and pet accessory communities. Animal welfare advocates understand the importance of showing the value of adopting pets as integral members of society. Join the Movement: Advocating for Railway Cats Everywhere The narrative of Felix and Bolt encourages all pet lovers to advocate for the role of animals in enhancing community well-being. Whether you're a veterinarian, a pet nutritionist, or involved in any aspect of pet care, you can take part in helping integrate pets into our public spaces. Consider supporting local shelters that might supply future station cats or participating in community events aimed at raising awareness for animal welfare. The legacy of Felix and Bolt at the Huddersfield Train Station illustrates a beautiful intersection of community, responsibility, and furry friendship. As we look forward to more cats joining our train stations and other public spaces, we invite you to explore how you can contribute towards making this a reality by mentoring fellow advocates, participating in charity events, and rallying your community to embrace the joy and importance of animal companionship.