Coal's death marks the conclusion of a unique chapter in Canadian history, where cats mingled with political life for decades.
Coal the Cat: The End of an Era at Canada’s Parliamentary Cat Colony
Coal the Cat: The End of an Era at Canada’s Parliamentary Cat Colony
The last feline of the beloved cat colony outside Parliament has passed away, leaving a nostalgic void.
Coal, the last surviving member of a once-thriving cat colony outside Canada's Parliament in Ottawa, has passed away at the age of 17. Known for his friendly demeanor and charm, Coal's presence had been a source of joy for parliament visitors and locals alike. A post on his dedicated Facebook page revealed that he succumbed to an aggressive cancer that ultimately spread to his lungs, leading to a compassionate euthanization conducted by a veterinarian.
Coal’s journey began in what was likely an abandonment at the colony's informal setup as a kitten. Over the years, the colony grew to house around three dozen cats that made their home in makeshift shelters, reminiscent of the iconic Centre Block building. A dedicated group of volunteers, including Coal’s adoptive owner Danny Taurozzi, worked tirelessly to maintain the welfare of these cats, providing food and care as they roamed freely in their natural habitat just steps away from the House of Commons.
The feline colony became a beloved attraction, drawing busloads of tourists who delighted in its charm, often capturing pictures of the cats as they lazed in the sun. Notably, the colony even counted high-profile visitors among its admirers, including former Prime Minister Stephen Harper and international spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama. As Coal takes his final bow, the legacy of the Parliament Cat Colony will remain a cherished memory in the hearts of those who visited and admired its whimsical inhabitants.
Coal’s journey began in what was likely an abandonment at the colony's informal setup as a kitten. Over the years, the colony grew to house around three dozen cats that made their home in makeshift shelters, reminiscent of the iconic Centre Block building. A dedicated group of volunteers, including Coal’s adoptive owner Danny Taurozzi, worked tirelessly to maintain the welfare of these cats, providing food and care as they roamed freely in their natural habitat just steps away from the House of Commons.
The feline colony became a beloved attraction, drawing busloads of tourists who delighted in its charm, often capturing pictures of the cats as they lazed in the sun. Notably, the colony even counted high-profile visitors among its admirers, including former Prime Minister Stephen Harper and international spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama. As Coal takes his final bow, the legacy of the Parliament Cat Colony will remain a cherished memory in the hearts of those who visited and admired its whimsical inhabitants.
