The Lavish Life of Choupette: Discover How Karl Lagerfeld’s Iconic Cat Enjoys Her Multi-Million Dollar Fortune from Saint-Tropez to Louis Vuitton
The late visionary fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld’s cat, Choupette, continues to live a luxurious life after the passing of her cherished owner. Lagerfeld passed away in 2019 at the age of 85.
In an exclusive interview with a prominent magazine, published on April 7, Lagerfeld’s former housekeeper, Françoise Caçote, shared insights into the Birman feline’s indulgent lifestyle, which has remained unchanged since her legendary owner’s death.
Choupette, who will celebrate her 14th birthday this year, resides with Caçote, her husband, and their children in a Parisian apartment, alongside a rescue cat named Siana. Caçote’s care for Choupette extends beyond typical feeding and playtime; she also manages the cat’s work commitments and schedule.
The feline boasts an impressive modeling career, collaborating with top models such as Kendall Jenner, Naomi Campbell, and Gisele Bündchen. “We’re very selective about the shoots we undertake,” Caçote mentioned in the interview. “Choupette has always had the demeanor of a princess, and unfortunately, it doesn’t improve with age!”
There are rumors suggesting that Lagerfeld left a substantial portion, if not all, of his nearly $300 million fortune to Choupette, although no specific amounts have been confirmed. It is widely accepted that her inheritance is substantial, also comprising her earnings from her thriving career.
“She has her own little fortune; she is an heiress. If something happens to me, the person responsible for her will not be in distress,” Lagerfeld once stated, as reported by various sources. “She’s a rich girl!”
This raises the question of whether pets are aware of their social status, and Choupette’s behavior seems to support this idea. According to Caçote, the cat knows she is in charge and, typical of her species, does as she pleases whenever she wants.
She further explained, “It’s the same with everything. If I insist, saying, ‘No, you must be brushed,’ she will growl and walk away. That’s just her nature.”
Despite her spirited personality, Caçote described Choupette as truly “adorable,” noting that the family has learned to accommodate their unique housemate. The particular feline had to adapt to sharing her space when Caçote’s daughter adopted a cat in need of a home.
Regardless, the addition of a new feline friend has not hindered Choupette from enjoying the luxurious lifestyle that Lagerfeld had envisioned for her. For instance, prior to his passing, the former Chanel creative director allowed Choupette to sleep on piles of clothing from the luxury brand; according to Caçote, “Her habits haven’t changed.”
The “Chinese porcelain bowls that Monsieur loved so much” remain unchanged, as does “her little Vuitton bag,” Caçote noted. Regarding travel, she stated that it’s an “advantage” that Choupette is already “accustomed to it.”
“…to be able to stroll and enjoy the outdoors… It’s what she used to experience with her dad during trips to Saint-Tropez,” Caçote said, adding, “That’s what I’m trying to provide for her.”
