The Secret Guardians: Disneyland's Feline Night Shift
The Unexpected First Residents of Disneyland
When Disneyland opened its magical gates in 1955, some unexpected guests had already made themselves at home. A colony of feral cats had settled into Sleeping Beauty Castle before it became the iconic attraction we know today.
At the same time, the park faced another challenge. Its rustic design attracted a growing number of rodents. Instead of viewing these situations as problems, Walt Disney saw an opportunity.
From Strays to Cast Members
In a stroke of genius, Disney decided to make these feral cats official cast members. Their job? Patrolling the park at night to keep the rodent population under control.
The arrangement worked perfectly. The cats received a safe place to live with plenty of food, while Disneyland gained a natural and effective rodent patrol.
Life as a Disneyland Cat
Today, an estimated 200 cats call Disneyland home. They receive excellent care from dedicated Disney staff, including:
- Regular medical check-ups
- Special feeding stations throughout the park
- A safe environment to live and work
These four-legged employees work the night shift, prowling the park after visitors leave. During the day, they typically remain hidden from sight, though lucky guests might occasionally spot one resting in a quiet corner.
Responsible Management
Disneyland takes its role as caretaker seriously. The park follows a trap-neuter-release policy to manage the cat population responsibly.
Some cats become quite comfortable around humans. When this happens, Disney finds them new homes with park employees, ensuring they stay part of the Disney family.
Follow the Feline Magic
These furry guardians have become so popular that they now have their own website and social media accounts. Fans can keep up with their adventures online, getting glimpses into the secret life of Disneyland after dark.
The story of Disneyland's cats shows how a creative solution to a common problem became part of the park's hidden magic. These feline friends continue the work they started back in 1955, keeping the Happiest Place on Earth just a little bit happier - and rodent-free.
