She’s a billionaire, but she isn't the only one in the house with a comma in her net worth. Or at least, that’s what the internet likes to joke about when it comes to Taylor Swift cats Olivia Benson. If you’ve spent more than five minutes in the Swiftie cinematic universe, you know Olivia. She’s the white, perpetually surprised-looking Scottish Fold who has spent the last decade becoming a genuine pop culture icon.
Olivia isn't just a pet. She’s a brand.
Honestly, it’s wild to think that a cat who spent her early years biting Taylor’s Diet Coke straws has ended up in high-budget commercials and global tour visuals. While Meredith Grey was the first of the trio, Olivia Benson—named after Mariska Hargitay’s legendary Law & Order: SVU character—swiftly (pun intended) became the most visible of the feline squad.
The $97 Million Question: Is Olivia Really That Rich?
You might have seen the headlines. A few years back, a report from the Ultimate Pet Rich List started circulating, claiming Olivia Benson was worth a staggering $97 million. People lost their minds. Is it true?
Well, it’s complicated.
The number comes from an analytical estimation of her "earning potential" based on Instagram engagement and her professional "acting" credits. Olivia hasn't exactly checked her bank balance lately, but her resume is genuinely more impressive than most human actors. She’s starred alongside Taylor in advertisements for DirectV, Diet Coke, and AT&T. She also made a notable appearance in the "Me!" music video, which serves as the official origin story for her younger brother, Benjamin Button.
While the $97 million figure is likely an inflated estimate for viral clicks, the reality isn't far off when you consider the licensing power of her image. From official merchandise sold on Taylor's site to the sheer marketing lift she provides, Olivia is a cornerstone of the Swift economy.
That "Melted Snowman" Aesthetic
Scottish Folds are known for their distinct ears, which fold forward and downward. Olivia, however, has perfected a specific look that fans call "the melted snowman."
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She sits. But she doesn't sit like a cat. She sits like a human who has just had a very long day at the office and has completely given up on posture. This weird, slouchy sitting position is actually a common trait of the breed, but Olivia turned it into a meme.
Taylor once shared a video of Olivia standing on her hind legs for an incredibly long time, looking like a tiny, furry meerkat. "What is happening?" Taylor asked in the background. We all wanted to know. It’s these organic, bizarre moments that made the world fall in love with her. She isn't a groomed, perfect show cat. She’s a chaotic roommate who happens to live in a Tribeca penthouse.
Breeding Controversy and Health Concerns
We have to talk about the elephant in the room. Or rather, the cartilage in the ears.
While Taylor Swift cats Olivia and Meredith are beloved, the Scottish Fold breed is actually quite controversial in the veterinary world. The very gene that makes their ears "fold" is a result of a genetic mutation called osteochondrodysplasia. This affects cartilage development throughout the entire body, not just the ears.
Experts from organizations like the British Veterinary Association have actually called for a ban on breeding them because it can lead to painful arthritis and joint issues later in life.
Swift hasn't commented publicly on the ethics of the breed, but fans have noticed that Meredith and Olivia are featured less frequently in high-energy "stunt" content as they've aged. It’s a reminder that even the most famous cats in the world have real-world biological needs and potential struggles that go beyond the Instagram filter.
The Olivia and Mariska Connection
One of the best parts of the Olivia Benson saga is the real-life friendship between Taylor and Mariska Hargitay.
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When Taylor named her cat after the detective, Mariska didn't just find it funny—she leaned into it. The two eventually met on the set of the "Bad Blood" music video, where Mariska (and Ellen Pompeo, the namesake of Meredith) made cameos.
Later, Mariska posted a photo of herself wearing a "Taylor Swift" cat collar. It was peak meta-humor. It solidified the fact that Olivia wasn't just a name; she was a bridge between Taylor’s personal life and her fandom's love for "girl boss" television icons.
Why Olivia Wins the "Favorite Cat" War
It’s a divisive topic among fans. Team Meredith or Team Olivia? (And now, Team Benjamin).
Meredith Grey is notoriously camera-shy. Taylor has joked many times that Meredith hates having her picture taken and often looks like she’s plotting a murder. Olivia, on the other hand, is a ham. She’s the one who gets carried like a handbag through the streets of New York.
Remember those 2014 paparazzi photos? Taylor walking out of her apartment, perfectly styled, holding a confused Olivia Benson like a clutch?
That was a turning point. It showed that Taylor wasn't a "closet" cat lady; she was making her cats a part of her public identity. Olivia handled the flashes and the noise with a level of chill that most humans don't possess.
Life With Benjamin Button
The dynamic shifted in 2019. During the filming of the "Me!" music video, a tiny Ragdoll kitten was brought on set for a scene. Taylor asked, "Can I have him?"
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The rest is history.
Benjamin Button joined the family, and suddenly, Olivia had a little brother. While Meredith stays in the shadows, Olivia and Benjamin are often seen together. Ragdolls are known for being incredibly floppy and docile (hence the name), which creates a hilarious contrast to Olivia’s stiff, judgmental "melted snowman" energy.
Real-World Impact on Pet Ownership
The "Taylor Swift effect" is real. When Taylor gets a specific breed, search interest for those cats spikes.
Data from pet adoption sites shows a correlation between celebrity pet ownership and breed popularity. However, it’s vital to remember that a Scottish Fold requires a lot of medical attention. If you’re looking to channel your inner Swift, consider that Olivia has access to the best vets on the planet.
- Fact: Scottish Folds often need regular joint supplements.
- Fact: They are prone to kidney issues.
- Fact: Their personality is usually described as "placid," which fits Olivia’s vibe perfectly.
Don't just buy a cat because it looks like a celebrity's pet. Do the homework.
What’s Next for Olivia?
As Taylor continues her record-breaking career, Olivia remains a constant. She’s been in the Miss Americana documentary. She’s been on the Eras Tour screen. She’s essentially the CEO of the household.
While some worry about the cats as they get older—Olivia is now well into her senior years—she seems to be living the dream. Whether she’s lounging on a private jet or "modeling" for a new line of merch, she’s redefined what it means to be a celebrity pet.
Steps for Swiftie Pet Parents:
If you want to treat your cat like Olivia Benson, you don't need a $97 million net worth. Start with the basics of high-end feline care. Focus on high-quality, grain-free diets that support joint health, especially if you have a breed prone to cartilage issues. Invest in interactive play that mimics "stardom"—think laser pointers and high-perch trees that let them look down on their kingdom. Most importantly, follow the "Meredith Rule": if your cat doesn't want to be on camera, put the phone away. Respecting a cat's boundaries is the ultimate "Taylor" move.