Farewell to Coal: The Last Cat of Canada’s Parliamentary Colony Passes Away

Coal, the last of the beloved cats residing near Canada's Parliament, died after battling cancer. Esteemed by tourists and dignitaries alike, the feline colony thrived for decades, becoming a cherished part of the parliamentary landscape.

Coal, the last surviving member of a long-standing colony of cats that had captured the hearts of tourists outside Canada’s Parliament Hill, has died, marking the end of an era. At approximately 17 years old, Coal succumbed to an aggressive cancer that affected his lungs, confirmed through a post on a dedicated Facebook page which detailed the veterinary care he received.

Although little is known about Coal’s beginnings, it is believed he was abandoned as a kitten and became a part of the unofficial colony that featured as many as 36 cats at one point. Volunteers, including Danny Taurozzi, helped maintain shelters for these felines, which were strategically placed behind a wrought-iron fence, a stone's throw from the entrance to the House of Commons.

Over the years, the colony gained a reputation, drawing tourists and locals alike who were intrigued by the playful cats and their surprising similarity to the architecture of the Centre Block building nearby. Along with the occasional raccoon that scavenged for food, the cats became a key attraction on Parliament Hill, often included as part of guided tours.

Notable figures, including the Dalai Lama and former Prime Minister Stephen Harper, visited the beloved cats, underscoring their unique significance in Canadian culture. With Coal's passing, the story of this spirited assembly of cats culminates in a bittersweet reflection on the joy they brought to many onlookers who frequented the historical site.