Willow, The First Cat, Stole Dr. Biden’s Heart After Interrupting Her Speech, So She Kept Her Because We Love Opinionated Pets

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The Biden family just got a little bigger.

On Friday, first lady Dr. Jill Biden announced the arrival of their new gray tabby cat, Willow.

"Willow is settling into the White House with her favorite toys, treats, and plenty of room to smell and explore," the first lady’s spokesman, Michael LaRosa, said.

The front of the White House
Alex Wong / Getty Images

The funny thing is, Willow and the first lady have actually met before, in the most iconic way possible. In 2020, when Dr. Jill Biden was delivering a speech during a campaign stop at a Pennsylvania farm, the feline leaped on stage and caused a disruption.

Dr. Biden waving to a crowd as she stands on a stage
Drew Angerer / Getty Images

“Willow made quite an impression on Dr. Biden in 2020 when she jumped up on the stage and interrupted her remarks during a campaign stop,” LaRosa said. “Seeing their immediate bond, the owner of the farm knew that Willow belonged with Dr. Biden.”

Dr. Biden smiling widely
Jim Watson / AFP via Getty Images

And as if their meet-cute wasn't enough to make your heart melt, this fun fact will: Willow was named in honor of Dr. Biden's hometown of Willow Grove, Pennsylvania.

Dr. Biden speaking at a podium that says Back to School Tour with her arms outstretched
Jim Watson / AFP via Getty Images

The kitty joins the rest of the animals at the White House, including Commander and Major, the family's two German shepherds.

The First couple sitting on a couch with one of their dogs
Saul Loeb / AFP via Getty Images

Most excitingly, Willow will be the first cat to live at the White House in over a decade. She follows in the footsteps of previous first cats like Socks, who belonged to the Clintons.

Socks chilling on top of the podium in the White House podium
Scott Eisen / Getty Images

I am genuinely so excited for the Biden family. I mean, after looking at Willow, how can you not want to take her home?

  Cbs Photo Archive / CBS via Getty Images
Cbs Photo Archive / CBS via Getty Images

What do you think of Willow? Let us know in the comments!