A British cat with orange eyes has become the star of multiple television adverts and also featured in a popular K-pop group’s music video.
Victoria Hathaway had longed to get a furry friend.
And when she came across Obi, a British Shorthair cat, she was instantly taken in – especially by his striking orange eyes.
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Five months later, though, the 37-year-old noticed he wasn’t walking properly and sadly, it was due to a spinal condition.
Without £7,000 surgery, he would end up paralysed.
Victoria shared his story on his Instagram, (@obi.toe.beans), to help raise funds; and he ended up gaining quite a fanbase.
So much so that it caught the eye of a talent agency.
And now, he’s worked with the likes of Richmond sausages for a television advert, as well as K-Pop group, Blitzers.
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“When I first received the message, I thought it was a scam,” the self-employed business owner, from Wiltshire, told What’s The Jam.
“His first job was starring in a music video.
“Obi was in his element.
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“He was held up high, Lion King-style, lapping up all the attention.
“I wouldn’t put him through it if he didn’t love it.”
Victoria got Obi in 2022.
She started his Instagram page, boasting 54,000 followers, as a way to keep a diary of his growth.
After his successful surgery in 2024, he then had both hips replaced less than a year later; costing a further £8,000.
She said: “He’s always been chilled out – even at vet appointments.
“He’s just happy to see the staff.
“Obi lives for fuss and attention.”
Victoria got the message on social media from Anima Talent saying that Obi is “gorgeous” and asking if she would like to register him.
While hesitant, she didn’t have anything to lose.
Suddenly she, and Obi, were plunged into a world of cameras and lights.
Since then, he’s worked with fashion magazines, jewellery brands and other television adverts, including Tangle Teezer and Vogue.
Victoria said: “I’m so proud of how far he has come – he really is my happy little superhero.
“I never thought this could happen; but for as long as Obi is enjoying himself, I’m having him take on the roles.
“Maybe he’ll be on the red carpet next.”
Obi isn’t just about his striking looks, though.
Victoria added: “He can sit, give paw and follow simple commands.
“I’ve trained him to wear a harness as I wanted to be able to take him out and about while keeping him safe.
“Training a cat is like training a dog; with a bit more patience.
“Ensure your pet has the right temperament.
“They have to naturally enjoy the fuss and attention – it can never be forced.
“He brings such joy and I’ve heard from people that if Obi can do it, then their cats can, too.”
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