Shanghai Museum Hosts 'Meow Night' for Cats to Explore Egyptian Art

Shanghai Museum is hosting a special event called "Meow Night," where cats are invited to explore Egyptian cat art. The unique exhibition allows feline visitors to interact with artworks inspired by ancient Egyptian cats, offering a blend of culture and entertainment for both pets and their owners. This innovative event highlights the museum's creative approach to engaging audiences with art.

Shanghai Museum has attracted large crowds this summer with its exhibition of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including cat statues and feline imagery. On Saturday nights, the museum hosts "Meow Night," allowing up to 200 visitors to bring their cats.

The event, inspired by the ancient Egyptian reverence for Bastet, the cat goddess of protection, includes a section of the exhibit called "The Secrets of Saqqara" where cats can interact with the displays.

Shanghai Museum Deputy Director Li Feng explained that the theme of cats emerged from archaeological discoveries of a cat temple in Saqqara, which included numerous cat mummies and statues. This inspired the creation of "Meow Night."

The "Top of the Pyramids: Ancient Egyptian Civilization Exhibition," running from July 19 to August 17, 2025, features "Meow Night" on at least 10 Saturdays, with six events already held and tickets, including those for bringing cats, consistently sold out.

During "Meow Night," visitors bring their cats in carriers or strollers and can only release them in designated areas, such as for photo opportunities with a Bastet statue. Cats are checked for vaccinations and signs of illness before entry, with veterinarians and rest areas available for their comfort.

Visitor Qiu Jiakai, attending with her one-year-old cat An Mao, shared her excitement about the unique experience. She appreciated the opportunity to connect her cat with its ancient ancestors and the cat goddess.

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Source: Reuters‍