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The Kuching Cat Museum is one of the most unique and entertaining attractions in Sarawak, Malaysia. Located in Kuching, the capital city whose name means "cat" in Malay, this museum is a tribute to all things feline. It is the first cat museum in the world and a must-visit for cat lovers and curious travelers alike. With thousands of exhibits related to cats—from ancient art and statues to modern pop culture references—the museum showcases how cats have been adored, worshipped, and represented throughout history and around the world.
The Kuching Cat Museum is situated inside the Kuching North City Hall building (Dewan Bandaraya Kuching Utara), located on top of Bukit Siol in Petra Jaya, about 10 minutes from the city center.
By Car: The easiest way to get to the museum is by car or taxi. You can use a GPS or navigation app and set your destination to “Cat Museum Kuching.”
By Ride-Hailing: Grab (a popular ride-hailing app in Malaysia) is widely available and affordable in Kuching.
By Bus: Some public buses from the city center go towards Petra Jaya, but services may be infrequent. It’s best to confirm with your hotel or a local information center.
Kuching has a hot and humid tropical rainforest climate year-round. Temperatures typically range between 24°C and 33°C. The museum is indoors and air-conditioned, so it is a great place to visit on a rainy or hot day. The rainiest months are usually between November and February, while the drier season is from April to September. However, short showers can occur at any time, so it’s wise to carry an umbrella when traveling in Sarawak.
The Kuching Cat Museum is open every day except public holidays. The regular visiting hours are:
It’s recommended to visit earlier in the day to avoid crowds and to have enough time to explore all the exhibits. A typical visit can take between 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest.
The Kuching Cat Museum is famous because it is the world’s first museum entirely dedicated to cats. It was established in 1993 and holds a collection of over 4,000 cat-related items, making it a quirky and fun destination that is both educational and entertaining.
The museum is a symbol of Kuching’s nickname, “Cat City,” and showcases how deeply cats are connected with local identity and international culture. You’ll find everything from ancient Egyptian cat statues and feline folklore to Hello Kitty displays and rare photos of cats owned by famous people.
The entrance to the Cat Museum is free of charge, which makes it an even more attractive stop for travelers on a budget. However, there is a small fee for bringing a camera inside:
The museum is located on the ground floor of Kuching North City Hall and is accessible by elevator or stairs. Parking is available at the building, and the museum is wheelchair-friendly.
The idea for the Cat Museum was first developed by the Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) and was officially opened in 1993. Since Kuching's name is believed to mean "cat" in Malay, the city embraced the feline theme in its urban identity. Statues of cats can be seen throughout the city, and the Cat Museum became a fitting tribute to this theme.
The museum is housed inside the distinctive, futuristic-looking DBKU building on Bukit Siol, which offers panoramic views of the city. The museum itself is divided into several sections, each focusing on a different aspect of feline history and culture—from ancient beliefs to modern art.
There’s plenty to see and do inside the museum:
The Kuching Cat Museum is more than just a quirky tourist spot—it’s a celebration of cats through the ages and across cultures. With its wide variety of exhibits, fun displays, and rich cultural insights, it offers a one-of-a-kind experience that reflects the spirit of Kuching city. Whether you’re a serious cat lover or just curious about why cats play such a big role in the city’s identity, this museum promises both fun and education. A visit here is sure to leave you smiling, learning, and possibly even inspired to adopt a furry friend of your own.
