Montreal’s Le Miaousée Aims to Establish Canada’s First Cat Museum

Montreal’s Le Miaousée is positioning itself to become Canada’s first permanent cat museum, transitioning from its historical role as a presbytery to a vibrant hub celebrating feline culture. The initiative, led by Aqeela Nahani, aims to promote various aspects of cat appreciation, from art to history and science.

The museum is currently hosting a pop-up exhibit, running from September 12 to 28, 2025, which showcases the rich history of cats in Montreal. The exhibit, titled Miaoutréal: The History of Montreal’s Cats, features historic photographs dating back to the 1860s, an art gallery with contributions from local artists, and interactive sections where visitors can share their own cat stories. The design mimics a classic Montreal alleyway, creating an immersive experience for attendees.

Nahani, who has a deep personal connection to cats—evidenced by a tattoo of her 15-year-old rescue cat—left a corporate job to pursue her passion project. Her inspiration stemmed from a book about cats who saved lives, prompting her to explore the world of cat museums. “I found that Canada did not have one,” she noted, emphasizing the need for a space that integrates multiple facets of cat culture.

The exhibit also highlights historical events, including what may be Montreal’s earliest cat show in 1875, which attracted around 4,000 attendees at a local skating rink. Participants enjoyed live music and a lively atmosphere, showcasing the community’s longstanding affection for felines.

While the current exhibit does not feature real cats, Nahani has ambitious plans for the future. She aims to secure a permanent location within the presbytery, transforming former nuns’ bedrooms into dedicated spaces for cat behavior exhibits, rescue stories, and a lounge area for visitors to meet and adopt cats. The idea has garnered positive feedback, even from some of the nuns who previously resided there.

Quebec boasts one of the highest rates of cat ownership in Canada, making Montreal an ideal location for such a museum. Nahani describes the city as being particularly fond of cats, noting their presence in alleyways and windows, as well as their integration into local businesses.

The enthusiasm for Le Miaousée is not limited to Montreal; Nahani has received outreach from individuals in Spain, Italy, and the United Kingdom interested in similar initiatives. This global interest reflects the universal appeal of cats, which, according to Nahani, represent love, resilience, and well-being.

As ticket sales for the current exhibit continue to grow, Nahani is considering extending the exhibit’s hours or adding more days to accommodate the demand. With the support of the community, Le Miaousée is poised to elevate Montreal’s cultural landscape and become a landmark for cat enthusiasts across Canada and beyond.