Raveena Tandon on International Cat Day: My cat Puma and I are both a little dramatic and weird

A few days ahead of International Cat Day, Bollywood actress Raveena Tandon made a meaningful visit to Purnima Kitty Kingdom, a cat shelter nestled in Malad, Mumbai. Her presence wasn’t merely ceremonial. It was a heartfelt appeal for help and support, as the shelter desperately needs donations, supplies, volunteers, and awareness to continue its vital work.

For Raveena, animal rescue is not a hobby – it’s in her DNA. “I think I was born into it,” in a chat with Mumbai Mirror, she reflects, sharing how a childhood photograph captures her as a baby sleeping beside two Pomeranians. She adds, “I have always been surrounded by animals. It’s more than just being a dog or cat lover – it’s about being a compassionate human being.”


Her home is affectionately called ‘Dr. Doolittle’s house’. Over the years, the Tandon-Thadani household has sheltered a menagerie of owls, a rescued monkey, a baby bat, rabbits, and countless injured birds. She laughs, “It’s like a mini Noah’s Ark. They just seem to find their way to us when they are in need.”

Among her many rescued animals, Puma, the family cat, holds a special place in Raveena’s heart. “Puma is truly one of a kind,” she gushes, adding, “Initially, she was a bit of a loner, living mostly on the upper floors of our home. But over time, she developed an amazing bond with one of our dogs, Lucifer. They are best friends now. Watching her trust, play, and even slap Lucifer around in jest has taught me that love and friendship can bloom even in the unlikeliest pairs.”

What also makes Puma extraordinary isn’t just her inter-species friendship – it’s her dog-like behaviour. Raveena shares, “The funniest part is that she thinks she is a dog. She responds to her name, comes when called, and even begs for snacks.” This quirky personality, complete with dramatic meows and chirps, has created an unbreakable bond between cat and owner. She says, “Puma has taught me that patience and respect earn you a cat’s loyalty.”

The bond between Raveena and Puma runs deeper than typical pet ownership. They share striking personality traits. She says, “Puma and I both enjoy our independence, but we love our chosen people deeply. She hates kisses, slaps us when we cuddle too much, but she also follows us around and wants to be part of the action. She has a strong personality. We’re both a little dramatic, a little weird, and a whole lot loving.”