Cat's journey from Dumpster to Museum Superstardom

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Dude the catPhoto by@dudethemuseumcat

He's cool. He's handsome. He's orange. And he's got a very important job.

Meet Dude, the feline guardian of the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science.

Fifteen years ago, fate intervened when Chris, the facility director, was locking up for the night when he heard a faint mew.

There, by the dumpster, a tiny ginger kitten shivered in the shadows. Eyes gleaming with mischief and hope, the little ball of fur captured Chris's heart in an instant.

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From that very first night in his new home, this pint-sized explorer showed he was destined for greatness.

Whiskers twitching with curiosity, he investigated every nook and cranny of the museum after hours.

Strutting through prehistoric exhibits and dashing past dioramas, he claimed the entire building as his domain.

Now, a decade and a half later, some things never change.

Dude, no longer tiny but every bit as spirited, shadows his human dad to work each day. The museum's unofficial mascot, always on duty, always purring.

Dude in the MuseumPhoto by@dudethemuseumcat

His royal schedule is packed with important tasks. Dawn patrol through the corridors, ensuring no dust bunny goes unchecked.

Mid-morning meet-and-greets with wide-eyed visitors, graciously accepting their adoration.

On his walkPhoto by@dudethemuseumcat

Afternoon naps in sunbeams, artfully posed near the most popular exhibits. And of course, the ongoing collection of an endless bounty of treats and pets from his adoring public.

Dude's fame has spread far beyond the museum walls. Books featuring his adventures fly off the gift shop shelves. T-shirts bearing his whisker-framed face are worn by fans across the state.'

Book on DudePhoto by@dudethemuseumcat

He's not just staff - he's a bona fide celebrity with a heart of gold and fur of flame.

And his fellow museum employees? They're merely his devoted subjects. The break room is his throne room, where offerings of gourmet cat food are presented daily.

Staff meetings aren't complete without his regal presence, sprawled across important documents.

Birthday celebrations for this ginger prince are legendary affairs. Custom-made fishy cakes, festive hats for all (which Dude magnanimously tolerates for photos), and an outpouring of gifts befitting feline royalty.

From humble beginnings to beloved icon, Dude's journey is the stuff of legend.

Once a trembling dumpster kitten, now the orange emperor of exhibits, lord of the learning spaces, sultan of the science halls.

Long live Dude, the handsome, cool, very important, and indisputably orange king of the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science!

Check out the video below: