In the midst of the fierce war in Ukraine, cats are not just ordinary pets—they’ve become special “soldiers,” standing side by side with troops on the front lines.
Cats – Trustworthy Companions
At the trenches, the presence of cats helps control rodents, protecting food supplies and equipment. More than that, they bring emotional comfort to soldiers during tense and challenging moments.
Some notable stories of these “cat warriors” include:
Syrsky: Named after his favorite cheese, Syrsky helped Roman Sinicyn’s unit control rats in an abandoned house. After leaving the front lines, Syrsky became a fundraising icon, helping to raise nearly $160,000 to support the Ukrainian military.
Shaybyk: A stray cat adopted by Oleksandr Liashuk in the early days of the war. Shaybyk was not only a close companion but also an excellent mouser—catching 11 mice in a single day. Shaybyk’s popularity helped raise funds to buy seven vehicles and other supplies for the army.
Karolina: A stray cat who approached Yabchanka’s unit seeking warmth. After giving birth to six kittens, Karolina and one of her kittens were brought back to Yabchanka’s home in Lviv, becoming a source of joy for his family.
Herych: A British Shorthair belonging to Kyrylo Liukov, Herych accompanied her on 20 missions to the front. His presence brought joy to soldiers and helped raise more than $27,000 to purchase vehicles for the military.
A Special Role in War
These cats not only help control pests but also play a vital role in boosting soldiers’ morale. Their presence brings a sense of peace and familiarity, helping fighters endure the hardships of war.
The stories of Syrsky, Shaybyk, Karolina, and Herych are proof of the unique bond between humans and animals, even in the harshest conditions.
They are not just companions, but also symbols of hope and inspiration for those on the front lines.