The way we dress is about self-expression. Every item of clothing sends a message to the world around us. Some people are more relaxed in the way they present themselves; jeans a t-shirt will do. Others, however, are more meticulous, preferring name-brand accessories and luxurious fabrics. The entire fashion industry is based on this passion for clothing and appearances. But step over Adriana Lima, cause one pretty kitty named Hummus is the new star of the show!
Meet Hummus, the nine-year-old feline fashionista with a sassy purrrsonality and passion for modeling beautiful getups.
Hummus lives in Ireland with her human dad Jason McGroaty. She was born in a foster home as the runt of the litter and was adopted by McGroaty at the age of 3 months. Unfortunately, her health took a turn for the worst.
“She was adopted at 3 months, and a few years later, her health began to deteriorate,” McGroaty told The Purrington Post. “She lost a lot of weight and was tired all the time.”
“A short time after, Hummus was diagnosed with feline leukemia virus.”
According to PetMD, feline leukemia is very contagious and is often contracted as a result of cat-to-cat transmission (e.g. bites, close contact, grooming, and sharing dishes or litter pans). Outdoor cats are more susceptible to catching the virus, but it can also be passed from a mother to her kittens at birth. Regardless of how Hummus had contracted the virus, however, her days as an outdoor cat would now be coming to an end.
“Feline leukemia virus… meant no outdoors, no bird-chasing and no galavanting with other kitties.”
That’s when McGroaty came up with an idea to help Hummus pass her time indoors. And from that moment on, these adorable, feline photo shoots were born.
McGroaty explained, “I wanted to break into the fashion photography industry with its models, makeup studios, and stylists on demand. But, I did not, and do not, have access to these professionals, services, or equipment all the time.”
“So, I did what any normal person would do; I dressed my cat up like a total fashion diva and started taking awesome fashion portraits!”
Most recently, McGroaty published a book called Cat Couture. It features 30 full-colored photos of Hummus alongside commentary. By all accounts, Hummus is an amazing model and loves getting fitted for new outfits!
“Her [Hummus’] favorite part of the project is creating the costumes. She patiently waits as she has her measurements taken and tries out new fabrics.”
Despite Hummus’s diagnosis, the sassy feline has learned to live an incredibly fulfilling life. McGroaty hopes his photos can show people how much fun life can still be for a kitty with feline leukemia.
“Hummus is a sweetheart. She is very affectionate and loves the attention she gets from Cat Couture.”
