In the hallowed halls of Oxford University, an unlikely but beloved figure has been brightening the days of students for six years. Meet Isambard Kitten Brunel, affectionately known as Issy, a fluffy Siberian forest cat who makes a daily bus commute to the library alongside his owner, Jamie Fishwick-Ford.
A Feline Commuter with a Loyal Following
Jamie, a librarian at Lady Margaret Hall, one of the colleges at Oxford University, began bringing Issy to work in September 2019. Despite the college being traditionally "very dog-orientated"—its coat of arms features two Talbot hunting dogs—Jamie decided to introduce a cat instead, adhering to the same policy that allows dogs in offices with permission.
The cat has quickly become a hit with students, gaining a loyal following. Issy spends his days lounging in Jamie's office, only venturing out to be petted or for outdoor exercise. "He's proved very popular with the students, and he definitely loves to be loved by them," Jamie said. "There are some students who come to see him several times a week."
An Unofficial Mascot and Welfare Animal
Issy has evolved into more than just a pet; he serves as an unofficial mascot and welfare animal. Jamie explained, "He's also used as an unofficial welfare animal, and he's very empathetic. He's always very friendly and calm, but he's even more so when someone is upset or crying. He's had several people come to him in tears after they've accidentally deleted their dissertations or so on."
His popularity extends beyond the library, with people stopping Jamie in the streets to ask if he is the famous library cat and to snap photos. Issy even appears on outreach team stickers, cementing his status as a local celebrity.
Daily Routines and Public Appearances
The much-loved feline mostly travels on his owner's shoulders, often spotted wearing a harness and lead. On the bus, he expects attention from other passengers and will "miaow" until he gets fussed over. Jamie added, "He also visits my local pub with me fairly frequently. They have a policy of allowing dogs, and I just apply that to him too."
Other colleges at Oxford University sometimes request visits from Issy, giving their students a chance to meet the famous cat. Jamie deliberately chose a Siberian forest cat because they are hypoallergenic, minimizing allergy triggers in the library and during commutes.
This heartwarming story highlights how a simple act—bringing a cat to work—has created a positive impact on student well-being in an academic environment, proving that sometimes, a furry friend is the best study companion.
