The phrase “fat cats” typically describes wealthy businesspeople, but seven actual cats in Tampa, Florida have literally become rich overnight. These fortunate felines now find themselves as the cats who inherit a substantial fortune following the death of their devoted owner, Nancy Sauer, who passed away at age 84 last November.
Cleopatra, Goldfinger, Leo, Midnight, Napoleon, Snowball, and Squeaky have become the talk of Tampa after cats inherit a combined $300,000 (approximately £336,000) from Sauer’s estate. The inheritance makes these Persian cats among the wealthiest pets in America.
Legal Complications and Practical Solutions
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Despite Sauer’s wishes that her cats inherit both money and continued residence in her home, the situation proved impractical over time. For nearly six months following her death, the seven Persian cats lived alone in the massive house, with someone assigned to visit several times daily to check on their wellbeing.
Eventually, a Hillsborough County probate judge intervened in the unusual case where cats inherit substantial assets. The judge determined it would be in the animals’ best interest to find them new homes rather than continue their solitary existence in the mansion.
The decision acknowledges the reality that while cats inherit money, they cannot maintain property or care for themselves. This legal intervention highlights the complexities that can arise when pets are named as beneficiaries in wills without practical arrangements for their care.
The cats have since been placed in the custody of the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, where they await adoption into new homes.
How Much Will These Cats Inherit Individually?
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Sherry Silk, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, agrees with the judge’s decision to find new homes for the cats. “Cats shouldn’t be left by themselves in a big house,” Silk stated. “I am going to personally make sure that we can keep as many together as we can and that they go to the perfect house.”
While the exact amount that each of the cats inherit individually hasn’t been determined, Silk confirmed that an attorney will calculate each cat’s portion. The inheritance will be “substantial,” according to Silk – “enough to cover the cats’ food, medical and grooming bills forever.”
This financial provision is particularly important given the cats’ breed and age. “They’re young. They’re only 5 years old,” Silk noted. “Persians can be expensive and pernickety,” suggesting that the funds these cats inherit will be necessary for their long-term care.
A Bittersweet Tale of Cats Who Inherit Their Owner’s Love
The story of these cats who inherit a fortune reveals a poignant human element behind the headlines. Nancy Sauer had become increasingly isolated in her later years, having lost both her husband and son, leaving her with no family aside from her beloved feline companions.
In a touching final chapter, Sauer celebrated her last birthday in November with a small gathering of just nine attendees: one close personal friend, her nurse, and her seven cats. Tragically, she passed away just three days later.
For potential adopters interested in providing homes for these wealthy cats who inherit substantial assets, the Humane Society of Tampa Bay will be handling the adoption process. The cats come with their inheritance funds, which will follow them to their new homes to ensure they receive the high standard of care their former owner wanted for them.
