Heidi Gardner, the talented comedian and actress, has opened up about her unwavering commitment to her three cherished cats, John Ross Jr., Lil Romeo, and Wish Bear. For Gardner, being a cat parent extends far beyond the basics of pet care, representing a deep bond with her feline companions that involves travel, culinary delights, and even wellness experiences.
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Gardner, speaking to PEOPLE in anticipation of her collaboration with Temptations for an upcoming Cat Bodega event in New York City, expressed how much she misses her furry friends when she is away. “They’re fantastic,” she remarked, clearly displaying her affection for the trio. Each of her cats showcases unique traits; her Tonkinese, John Ross Jr., is described as a quintessential lounge cat, while Lil Romeo is a timid “mama’s boy” who enjoys being held like a baby. The youngest member of the family is the seven-month-old Wish Bear, who was adopted with a name inspired by the beloved Care Bears.
In an extraordinary display of love and devotion, Gardner revealed that she frequently embarks on cross-country drives with her cats. This decision was partly motivated by the needs of her blind cat, as she felt that a road trip could offer a more comforting experience than air travel. Over time, these journeys evolved into pleasurable adventures that allowed her to bond further with her pets.
Once home, the indulgence continues as Gardner delights in serving her cats their meals on aesthetically pleasing plates, possibly with more care than she would for her human guests. “I’ve started ordering a lot of different beautiful plates or slow feeders,” she quipped. Such lavish treatment is indicative of her desire to provide nothing but the best for her feline companions.
Her cats are also treated to a unique form of pampering that includes sound bath experiences. Gardner shared how her friend Joanie, who looks after her cats, introduced them to the calming practice during her absences. This innovative approach, designed to soothe and relax her pets, became a cherished routine, with Joanie sending Gardner video clips featuring the soothing sounds of chimes and bowls resonating through the sessions. The impact on her blind cat was particularly moving, giving Gardner a new perspective on the sensory experiences that can enrich feline life.
Gardner’s love for cats extends beyond her own three pets to a soft spot for general bodega cats—the hardworking cats often seen lounging in corner shops across New York City. Upon relocating to the city, she quickly became enamoured with these neighbourhood felines, especially an individual cat named Iman whom she encountered frequently while living in Brooklyn. Gardner admitted, “Every time I go in the store, I’m looking for his little spots,” highlighting the joy these local cats bring to her visits.
In celebration of these beloved animals, Gardner’s partnership with Temptations has launched the first-ever Cat Bodega, an immersive pop-up dedicated to the experience of bodega cats. Set to take place from September 17 to 19 at 213 Bowery, this event also features an online component offering cat lovers across the nation a chance to engage via a digital scratch-off game for prizes and treats.
The Cat Bodega will showcase various immersive experiences, bodega-themed merchandise, and complimentary goodies, all aimed at honouring the charming cats that inhabit these familiar neighbourhood locations. For Gardner, her cats represent more than mere companions; they embody a sense of home and safety. “They are, like, that ultimate safe space for me too,” she reflected, acknowledging the comfort and support her pets provide amid the bustling demands of life.
As Gardner continues to blend her career with her deep devotion to her feline family, her love story with her cats serves as a reminder of the profound connections humans can form with their pets, enriching both lives in the process.