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Taylor Swift’s love for cats is no secret. She’s a self-proclaimed cat lady and loves to gush about her 3 kitties, who have traveled with her all over the world. (And how could we forget when she starred in the movie adaptation of the Cats musical?)
Over the years, her trio of feline companions has become almost as recognizable as her chart-topping songs. From social media appearances to major magazine covers, each cat has played a role in shaping the pop star’s public image. In honor of the release of Taylor’s newest album, The Life of a Showgirl, get to know Taylor’s cats Meredith Grey, Olivia Benson and Benjamin Button — and what makes them so special.
Meredith Grey, named after the beloved Grey’s Anatomy character, was Taylor Swift’s first cat. She’s a Scottish Fold, a breed known for its distinctive folded ears and calm temperament. Scottish Folds can be affectionate yet reserved, often preferring quieter companionship. While Meredith tends to stay out of the spotlight more than her siblings, her place as the original “Taylor Swift cat” makes her an important part of the family’s story.
Olivia Benson, another Scottish Fold, joined Taylor’s family after Meredith. She’s named after the Law & Order: SVU character played by Mariska Hargitay. Olivia has become one of the most visible of Taylor’s cats, with cameos in music videos like “ME!” and “Blank Space” and frequent appearances on social media.
Like Meredith, Olivia shares the same breed traits tied to being a Scottish Fold. She’s known for her quirky personality and photogenic charm, making her a fan favorite. Fun fact: in 2023, Mariska Hargitay adopted a cat of her own and named her “Karma,” after Taylor’s hit song.
Benjamin Button is the youngest of the group and Taylor’s only Ragdoll cat. His big break came when he appeared in Taylor’s music video for “ME!” before officially joining the family. (In the video above, you can watch Taylor meet Benjamin for the first time and decide to adopt him on the spot!)
Ragdolls are famous for their large size, striking blue eyes and relaxed demeanor — traits Benjamin has displayed in memorable ways, including his appearance on Taylor’s TIME Person of the Year cover in 2023. Benjamin’s calm, cuddly temperament matches the Ragdoll reputation as laid-back companions.
More than pets, Meredith, Olivia and Benjamin have become symbols of Taylor Swift’s personal and public identity. They’ve appeared in music videos, tours, interviews and even political posts, creating a bond with fans that extends beyond music. And whether it’s Meredith’s quiet presence, Olivia’s pop culture sparkle or Benjamin’s gentle giant energy, each cat contributes to the story of Taylor Swift in its own way.
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