Rutherford B. Hayes’ Siamese Cat
The first Siamese cat in America lived in the White House during Hayes’ presidency. His wife Lucy received this exotic pet as a gift from a Bangkok diplomat in 1878. Named Siam, the blue-eyed feline slept on velvet cushions and hunted mice throughout the executive mansion. The presidential pet died after just one year, leaving Lucy heartbroken. This rare cat started a tradition of feline companions in the White House.
