7 most FAMOUS Soviet cats
They were worshipped throughout all times and, in the USSR, they became heroes of literature and animation, as well as true urban legends of St. Petersburg.
1. The devilish Behemoth the cat
The headstrong talking cat from Woland's entourage is one of the most vivid characters in Mikhail Bulgakov's novel ‘The Master and Margarita’. Behemoth the cat is the author of aphorisms, such as: “Would I ever allow myself to pour vodka for a lady? This is pure spirit!”
Fans of the universally beloved novel argue over which movie adaptation of Behemoth turned out better (spoiler: the perfect one hasn't been made yet!).
2. The Hermitage cats
Cats have been lawful inhabitants of St. Petersburg's Hermitage Museum since the 18th century: they fought rats, saving priceless art masterpieces in the process. The current generation of cat-rescuers traces its lineage back to 1943. After the lifting of the siege of the city during World War II, pets were brought to Leningrad from different parts of the country. Since then, they have been considered a symbol of the museum and full-fledged employees!
3. The thrifty Matroskin the cat
One of the main characters of Eduard Uspensky's children’s saga ‘Prostokvashino’. This talking cat teaches a boy named ‘Uncle Fyodor’ about life. He became a nationwide favorite in his animated incarnation, voiced by legendary actor Oleg Tabakov.
4. The kindest Leopold the cat
The cartoon ‘The Adventures of Leopold the Cat’ is the complete antithesis of ‘Tom and Jerry’. In it, the kind and friendly Leopold the cat is bullied by two hooligan mice. Yet, he still tries to make peace with them, forgiving all their mischief. “Guys, let's live together in peace!” – his motto, which was familiar to every Soviet child.
5. The touching kitten named Woof
One day, a puppy in the yard barks “woof-woof” and a little kitten decides that is his name. He becomes friends with the puppy and, together, they go on adventures everywhere. Even today, adults recall the animated movie ‘Kitten named Wood’ with a smile.
6. The arrogant Matilda
In the USSR, people adored Astrid Lindgren's character Carlson, all thanks to the ‘Soyuzmultfilm’ animation and the voice acting of Vasily Livanov. In the second part, ‘Carlson Returns’, Matilda appears, the stern cat-companion of housekeeper Miss Bok. However, even she can’t resist, along with her owner, the charm of the man with a propeller hat.
7. The sharp-tongued Vasily the cat
The pompous and incredibly fat cat Vasily is a character from the animated series ‘The Return of the Prodigal Parrot’. He constantly mocks the main character, parrot Kesha, who constantly makes up stories about his alleged distant travels. The cat is interested in only one thing: eating and sleeping. His catchphrase has become famous: “Tahiti, Tahiti! They feed us pretty well right here!”
Discover 10 most FAMOUS Soviet dogs
