To kick off Living Ship Days 2016, the USS Hornet Museum (Hornet) will pay tribute to the furry, unsung heroes of the high seas – domestic cats – and raise funds for the Friends of Alameda Animal Shelter on Saturday, February 20 at 1:00 p.m. with “Tails of the Tomcat,” presented by award-winning author and photographer Dr. Paul Koudounaris.

While the idea of a being a specialist in feline history may strike some as odd, Dr. Koudounaris has intrigued audiences and readers around the world with his offbeat, sometimes strange, and always fascinating stories about cats. And who says cats are afraid of water? The remarkable history of feline ship mascots, with its tales of adventure and courage (and occasional indifference to danger – we’re talking about cats, after all), goes back to the days of Ancient Egypt. Cats were once such a standard feature on any respectable boat that no captain worth his salt would set sail without one! In fact, cats have participated in famous naval battles, won medals, and even traveled to the South Pole.

“Tails of the Tomcat” is hosted in partnership with Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter (FAAS), which was founded in 2009 by a small group of volunteers dedicated to providing veterinary care for animals at the shelter. In 2012, FAAS took over the management of the shelter when budget cuts threatened its closure. The group has since grown to nine staff members and more than 100 volunteers, who provide daily care to over 60 animals.

Shelter volunteers will be on hand at the February 20th event to accept donations of unused dog and cat toys, pet food (including opened dry food), and unused rabbit toys. Monetary contributions are also welcome. Adult visitors who bring toy and food donations will receive 50% off the Hornet’s adult admission price.

The February 20th Living Ship Day will run from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and feature the Big Band music of the USS Hornet Band at 11:00 a.m. General admission prices apply and include Dr. Koudounaris’ presentation.