
Investigative journalism comes easily to me. I’ve always had a sharp sense of anything new happening, an insatiable curiosity for everything and a keen nose for things that are supposed to be hidden (or out of reach). It’s hard work but someone’s gotta do it.
Today I tracked down the suave model for those iphone apps over at Chunky Chicken Apps and it turns out he’s not just the model, but the brains behind the operation.
The pin-up is Twitter Anipal, leonardo-da-cat, the big-pawed Maine Coon who’s fond of the old midnight prowl. I don’t want to label him as just a Coon, for Leo himself holds strong views on categorising and artificial labels. ‘We are all cats‘, he says, and he’s not afraid to share his opinions.
The mostly unobtrusive and very furry Leo traveled from Sicily through Siberia to Alaska before hitching a ride with a fine crab boater to Seattle. Just imagining that journey makes your fur stand up!
I’m always burning to know what role model a successful cat like this would have. In Leo’s case it’s Thomas, the cat half of the acclaimed actors Tom & Jerry. It’s the sheer professionalism of Thomas that appeals, the way he kept going in the face of adversity, and the fact that he did his own stunts.
Life Lesson from Leonardo-da-Cat
Leonardo’s message to the young kittehs.
Don’t let anything hold you back. I had a hernial defects at a young age and for a long time I could barely jump up to a chair. I never let that stop me, and while my jumping skills may not be as great as other cats’ – I don’t let it stop me! Don’t be afraid to bite human ankles or try to trip them, it’s a good way to get their attention. Finally, be kind to all your anipals and share your catnip. Always find some time to do two things a day: lay out in the sun and go on a late night prowl!
Attaboy Leo!
If you see leonardo-da-cat around on Twitter give him a high paw! He likes to touch base with other cats and see what’s going on out there in catland.

Grand web page. You are a social media hot shot