**Meredith the Cat: A Feline and Her Custom Apartment in Alabama**
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In a unique twist on pet ownership, a ragdoll cat named Meredith has become something of a celebrity in her very own studio apartment nestled within her owner’s Alabama home. At six years old, the inquisitive feline, affectionately referred to as “Mae Mae,” has a living space tailored to her preferences, meticulously designed by her devoted pet parent, Emily.


The idea for this cat-sized haven originated when Emily noticed Meredith seeking out peace and quiet in an unused bedroom. While the cat enjoys the company of her three canine companions — a golden retriever named Kelso and two Chihuahuas — she sometimes prefers the tranquillity of her own space to escape the boisterous dog energy. “Mae Mae is very shy around most people, but with me, she is the complete opposite,” Emily remarked. “She is incredibly talkative and playful.”
Emily’s journey took an unexpected turn following a car accident in July 2023, which left her unable to perform daily tasks for several months. With her usual active lifestyle curtailed, Emily sought engaging projects to keep her spirits high. “During that time, I kept thinking about how much Meredith loved her little pet room,” she said. This sparked the idea to upcycle the space into an ultimate retreat for her feline friend.
The transformation began as Emily turned her energies towards creating a miniature apartment, sourcing furniture from local shops and online stores. When she struggled to find suitable pet furniture, she got inventive, utilising toddler furniture and DIY techniques. “It became an outlet for me, allowing me to channel my efforts into something positive,” she reflected.
As she crafted the space, Meredith played the role of the project manager, overseeing every detail. Emily recounted, “Meredith is right there supervising. She has to inspect everything.” By the time the family welcomed a move in September of the same year, Meredith’s new apartment was one of the first rooms to be completed, underscoring the importance of her comfort during a time of transition.
The studio apartment features an impressive array of furnishings, including a coffee table made from a repurposed cake stand and a sectional built from cardboard and foam. Emily has received a mix of reactions from the online community, with sceptics questioning the budget behind this passion project. “I think some people assume I am spending far more than I actually am,” Emily explained. As a public school teacher in Alabama, she has navigated the project on a modest budget, favouring creative reuse over expensive purchases.
“Some early misconceptions suggested that Mae Mae was confined to her room,” Emily clarified. “That couldn’t be further from the truth. This space is merely her retreat — she comes and goes as she pleases, and I often spend time with her in there.” Meredith’s home is not just confined to her studio but reflects a happy blend of creativity and practicality designed for her comfort and enjoyment.
Now, the once-in-progress apartment has blossomed into a fully realised space, complete with a Christmas tree that celebrates multiple seasons and decorations. “People often ask why Mae Mae’s tree is still up long after December,” Emily shared. “She adores it. I simply redecorate it for different holidays since taking it down would break my heart.” Additionally, Meredith enjoys a small piano, providing her with entertainment at her leisure.
Emily’s attentiveness to Meredith’s preferences extends beyond initial installations — she continually observes how the cat interacts with her environment. “If she gravitates toward something, it stays; if she ignores it completely, I rethink it,” she described, highlighting her commitment to ensuring Meredith feels comfortable and stimulated in her surroundings.
As the creative process continues, Emily has exciting plans to expand Meredith’s apartment even further, recently adding a miniature recycling bin to her collection. She enjoys sharing her endeavours via social media, where followers can keep up with the whimsical updates. The duo is also collaborating on a project titled “Microbiology with Mae Mae,” aimed at simplifying complex science concepts for a wider audience.
For those intrigued by Meredith’s unique lifestyle and ongoing adventures, her Instagram and TikTok accounts offer a delightful window into the life of this pampered purr-sonality and her enchanting apartment. As Emily continues to craft new elements for her delightful companion, it’s clear that the bond between them is as strong as it is charming.
