Once kept purely for pest control, station cats are proving themselves to be purr-fect companions for the daily commute

ILLUSTRATION: SASHA CHAGINA

Next time you’re waiting for a train, you might find a fourlegged companion by your side on the platform. A number of railway stations have their own resident cat – so don’t be surprised if you catch a glimpse of a tabby slinking along the tracks or a ginger tom curled up by the ticket booth. Traditionally, cats were kept at stations purely to keep vermin numbers down, but now they’re becoming increasingly popular with staff and customers alike. Regular commuters look out for the familiar felines on their daily journeys, children bring them drawings and treats, and some even have their own accounts on social media. The station moggy might even have its own job title – such as Chief of Customer Relations or Pest Control Officer. One thing’s for sure, these station cats are often beloved by all those who interact with them, and their presence helps to brighten many people’s days.

If you’re an animal lover, it might be easy to imagine how stroking a purring cat while waiting for a delayed train could lower your stress levels – or at least make your experience of a drafty waiting room more enjoyable. But there’s also plenty of scientific evidence to suggest measurable positive effects on wellbeing. Scientists agree that being around companion animals really can give a tangible boost to people’s mental health. A number of studies with pet owners conclude that they can ease stress, anxiety, loneliness and depression, and boost feelings of wellbeing. When it comes to station cats, their positive impact is often felt by both the visitors to the station and the people who work there.