Taylor Swift, the global music icon, isn’t just known for her chart-topping hits and captivating performances; she’s also famously known as a devoted cat lover. Her three feline companions, Meredith Grey, Olivia Benson, and Benjamin Button, are more than just pets; they’re integral members of her family and have become celebrities in their own right, often stealing the spotlight alongside their famous owner. These beloved cats have graced magazine covers, starred in social media posts, and even made cameos in Swift’s music videos, solidifying their status in pop culture and endearing them to fans worldwide.
Meet Taylor Swift’s Furry Family Members
Swift’s affection for her cats is undeniable, and she frequently shares glimpses of their lives with her massive fanbase. Each cat has a distinct personality and origin story, adding to their individual charm and appeal. Let’s take a closer look at each member of Taylor Swift’s feline family:
Meredith Grey
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Taylor Swift affectionately holds her Scottish Fold cat, Meredith Grey, in a cozy indoor setting, showcasing their close bond.
Meredith Grey, a Scottish Fold named after the iconic character from Grey’s Anatomy, was the first cat to join Taylor Swift’s life in 2011. Swift has often described Meredith as “awesome” and “the most adorable cat in the world.” While Meredith holds a special place as Swift’s first feline, she’s also known for being the most private of the trio. Despite her slightly reclusive nature, Meredith has made notable appearances alongside Swift, including a cameo (sort of!) in Deadpool 2 where she and Olivia Benson were featured on a t-shirt worn by Ryan Reynolds’ character. She also appeared in Swift’s “ME!” music video and even played a role in encouraging fans to self-quarantine during the COVID-19 pandemic with a humorous social media post. Although fans sometimes worry about her infrequent appearances online, Swift has reassured everyone that Meredith is simply a private cat who dislikes having her picture taken.
Olivia Benson
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A close-up portrait of Taylor Swift’s Scottish Fold cat, Olivia Benson, highlighting her striking white fur and distinctive folded ears.
Olivia Benson, another Scottish Fold, joined Swift’s family in 2014. Named after Mariska Hargitay’s character in Law & Order: SVU, Olivia has lived up to her namesake’s star power. She’s arguably the most publicly seen of Swift’s cats, having appeared in Deadpool 2, the “ME!” music video, and even a Diet Coke commercial alongside Swift. In a heartwarming moment, Olivia even met her human namesake, Mariska Hargitay, in 2015. Known for her playful personality, Olivia has been featured in numerous social media posts, showcasing her stretching routines in preparation for Swift’s Reputation tour and even “meeting” Paula Abdul at the Billboard Music Awards. Olivia’s outgoing nature and frequent appearances have made her a fan favorite and a recognizable face in the world of celebrity pets.
Benjamin Button
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Benjamin Button, Taylor Swift’s Ragdoll cat, gazes directly at the camera with his bright blue eyes, showcasing his fluffy white and grey fur.
Benjamin Button, a Ragdoll cat named after Brad Pitt’s character from the film The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, is the newest member of Swift’s feline family, joining in 2019. His adoption story is particularly endearing: Swift met Benjamin on the set of her “ME!” music video. Originally without a home and part of an adoption program, Benjamin won Swift over instantly. She recounts feeling an immediate connection with the kitten, who seemed to choose her as his mom. Benjamin has since become a prominent figure in Swift’s life, even accompanying her on the cover of TIME magazine as Person of the Year in 2023. He also played a role in Swift’s endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election, further cementing his status as more than just a pet, but a part of Swift’s public image and advocacy. Benjamin’s charming demeanor and heartwarming adoption story have made him a beloved member of the “Taylor Swift Cats” trio.
Taylor Swift and Her Cats: A Testament to Cat Love
Taylor Swift’s open affection for her cats has not only endeared her to cat lovers worldwide but has also had a tangible positive impact. Her self-proclaimed “cat lady” status is embraced by her fans, who celebrate her genuine love for her feline companions. In a playful nod to this, Swift even signed off an Instagram post as “Childless Cat Lady,” reclaiming a phrase initially used negatively.
Beyond social media and music videos, Swift’s cats have inspired acts of kindness. Ahead of her Eras Tour stop in Houston, a local animal shelter reduced cat adoption fees in honor of Swift’s passion for cats, a testament to her influence and the positive association with “taylor swift cats.”
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Taylor Swift poses with her cats Olivia Benson and Benjamin Button alongside Paula Abdul, capturing a memorable and humorous encounter.
In interviews, Swift has spoken about the joy and companionship her cats bring to her life, highlighting their independent and dignified nature. She even jokingly attributed her role in the movie Cats to her deep love for felines. Whether it’s Meredith’s quiet charm, Olivia’s outgoing personality, or Benjamin’s heartwarming adoption story, Taylor Swift’s cats are more than just celebrity pets; they are beloved family members who bring joy to her life and connect her with fans around the world through their adorable antics and public appearances. They are a purrfect example of how much joy and love “taylor swift cats” bring to both their famous owner and her global fanbase.
