In 1947, Hollywood actress Wanda Hendrix paid a visit to one of the most unusual businesses in the country — a motel built entirely for cats. The facility was run by Mildred Alexander and gave a whole new meaning to the word “cathouse.” This was no ordinary boarding kennel. It was a full-scale luxury retreat designed specifically for feline guests, and it turned heads across the country.
The motel sat on nearly an acre of land in Sherman Oaks and featured 30 individual units. Each unit was a blue and white bungalow built to keep cats comfortable in every season. In winter, the rooms were heated with electrical lighting installed inside. In summer, the layout allowed cats to soak up sunlight and enjoy a cool breeze while they lounged. Alexander clearly thought of everything when it came to her guests’ comfort.
The dining arrangements were just as impressive as the accommodations. Cats staying at the motel had access to customized menus that could include lobster, and water was served in crystal goblets — chilled with ice. Every detail was tailored to give each cat the kind of treatment most people didn’t even expect for themselves. The menu wasn’t a gimmick; it was a genuine service that owners could request for their pets.
The sleeping arrangements were equally well thought out. Adult cats slept in barrel beds, while kittens had their own cribs. Each bungalow also included a recreation hall, giving the cats space to move and play rather than being confined to a single small room. The setup more closely resembled a small resort than a traditional pet boarding facility. Wanda Hendrix, who was actively working in Hollywood films during this period, made the trip to San Francisco to see the motel firsthand — a visit that drew public attention to Alexander’s remarkable operation.
