Pittsburgh is getting its first cat tour

How it works: Meet at Legion Memorial Park in Brighton Heights at noon Aug. 22 for a 12:30-2pm guided walk to about 20 pre-registered homes over 2.5 miles.

• North Side cats of all ages, makes and models will be waiting in windows, doorways and on porches.

What to expect: CATS, from a 20-year-old Bengal named Sausage to other A-listers like Pippin, Penny, Ember and Zoey.

• Plus: Giant cat puppets, a catio from Frankie’s Friends, snacks for purchase and raffles for handmade items, including a quilt.
• There will be painted cat rocks hidden along the route and homemade signs cheering on the toe-beaned talent. Visitors are encouraged to make their own signs and dress on theme.
• Cat nonprofits will be on hand with volunteer opportunities.

What they’re saying: "It’ll almost be like a cat parade through the city," Christy tells Axios. "People can bring their cats in strollers or backpacks. It's family-friendly, we can take pictures and maybe we'll have some bonus cat sightings if the feral strays in the neighborhood cross our paths."

• They hope to grow it into an annual event, Christy adds.

Zoom in: The route is mostly flat with an optional hill, Costello says, and walkers can join or leave any time. Wear comfortable shoes, bring water and check social media for the final route.

• No tickets required; a $10-$20 donation per person is suggested, with all proceeds benefiting Pittsburgh Paw Project and Frankie’s Friends. Donate at the raffle table.

Context: Organizers say they tapped into the "crazy cat lady network" and other neighborhood connections, often built through petsitting and Brighton Heights porch parties, to recruit neighbors to feature their cats on the tour.

What’s next: The two-person operation still needs volunteers. Message Pittsburgh Cat Walk on Instagram or Facebook to see how you can help.