In an age where pets often hold celebrity status, some animals have amassed extraordinary wealth—rivaling that of human millionaires. Whether through inheritance, social media fame, or starring roles in global campaigns, these nine animals have built fortunes that place them among the richest in the world.
1. Tardar Sauce
Tardar Sauce, famously known as Grumpy Cat, was a mixed-breed domestic shorthair whose permanently displeased look—caused by feline dwarfism and an underbite—turned her into a viral sensation. Her internet fame quickly grew into a global brand, leading to merchandise, book deals, commercials, and more. With an estimated net worth of over $99 million, she became one of the richest pets in history. Although she passed away in 2019, Grumpy Cat remains a lasting symbol of internet culture and an unexpected celebrity.
2. Olivia Benson
Even as the Scottish Fold cat of pop superstar Taylor Swift, Olivia Benson has become a celebrity in her own right. Named after a character from Law & Order: SVU, Olivia has appeared in Swift’s music videos and high-profile ads, including campaigns for brands like Diet Coke and AT&T. Her exposure alongside one of the world’s biggest stars has helped her amass an estimated net worth of around $97 million. With luxury living, media appearances, and a massive fan following, Olivia is one of the wealthiest and most pampered cats on the planet.
3. Gigoo
Gigoo, a Scots Dumpy hen, made headlines as one of the richest birds in history after inheriting $15 million. She belonged to Miles Blackwell, a British publisher known for his success in educational publishing. Following the passing of his wife, Blackwell rewrote his will to leave a portion of his fortune to Gigoo, ensuring she would be well cared for. While she lived a quiet life compared to other animal celebrities, Gigoo’s unexpected wealth turned her into a symbol of eccentric generosity and the deep bonds between pets and their owners.
4. Tommaso
Tommaso, a sleek black cat from Italy, lived as a stray until he was rescued by Maria Assunta, a wealthy widow with a vast real estate portfolio. The two formed a strong bond, and upon her passing at age 94, Assunta arranged for her $13 million fortune to benefit her beloved feline. She initially intended to donate the money to an animal charity, but when no suitable group could be found, the entire sum was placed in a trust for Tommaso’s care. Under the watchful eye of a chosen caretaker, he now enjoys a life of quiet luxury.
5. Blackie
Blackie, a humble black cat from the United Kingdom, rose to global recognition after receiving an inheritance of $12.5 million from his owner, Ben Rea. Rea, a wealthy antiques dealer with few close relatives, chose to leave the majority of his estate to various animal charities, while ensuring Blackie was financially cared for. This decision made Blackie the wealthiest cat of his time until 2018, earning recognition from Guinness World Records. Despite the fortune, Blackie lived a quiet life, far removed from the spotlight his wealth attracted.
6. Conchita
Conchita, a lavishly pampered Chihuahua, became one of the wealthiest dogs in the world thanks to her owner, Miami heiress Gail Posner. Known for her extravagant lifestyle, Posner left Conchita a $3 million trust fund along with an opulent $8.3 million mansion in Miami. Often seen wearing designer outfits and riding in luxury cars, Conchita lived a life most could only imagine. Her inheritance sparked public fascination and legal disputes, but there’s no doubt she remained the queen of her luxurious estate.
7. Lulu
Lulu, an eight-year-old Border Collie, found herself at the center of unexpected fortune when her owner, Bill Dorris, left her $5 million in his will. A successful businessman from Tennessee, Dorris had no close family and adored Lulu deeply. The money wasn’t given directly to the dog, but placed in a trust to ensure she would always be well cared for. Lulu now lives with a trusted friend of her late owner, enjoying a peaceful life with all her needs—big and small—fully covered by her generous inheritance.
8. Choupette
Choupette, the elegant Birman cat of late fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld, was more than just a pet—she was a model and muse. In 2014 alone, she reportedly earned €3 million (about $3.18 million USD) through high-profile campaigns, including a German car advertisement and a Japanese beauty collaboration with Shu Uemura called “Shupette.” With her own staff, lavish lifestyle, and global fanbase, Choupette became a symbol of luxury in the fashion world, holding her own as a feline celebrity with true earning power.
9. Trouble
Trouble, a white Maltese once owned by hotel magnate Leona Helmsley, made headlines after being left $12 million in her will—while Helmsley’s grandchildren were left out. The surprising decision sparked controversy and led to a legal battle, after which a judge reduced the amount to $2 million. Even with the adjustment, Trouble lived in luxury under a full-time caretaker, enjoying a life of gourmet meals and private security. Her story remains one of the most talked-about examples of extravagant pet inheritance.
Love Pets as Much as We Do?
Scroll up and click the ‘Follow’ button to stay updated with the latest heart-warming, hilarious, and helpful pet posts from Pawdown, delivered straight to your Microsoft Start feed and MSN homepage!