Xzibit, the rapper and television personality, has been caring for his Bengal cat, Thunder Cat, since 2006, when he brought her home as a kitten from a breeder in Florida. Now over 20 years old, Thunder Cat's longevity is remarkable, as the average domestic cat lives between 12 to 18 years. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, Xzibit shared, "She's over 20 years old, so I take really good care of her. She's had some health issues, but I got really good doctors, and we did what we could. She's still here kicking it."
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To keep Thunder Cat healthy, Xzibit engages in daily conversations with her and maintains a clean litter box, a crucial habit as dirty litter can lead to urinary problems in cats. He feeds her Hill's Science Diet 11+ formula, which is specifically designed to support kidney function in older cats, and she drinks from a water fountain, as she prefers running water over still water.
Additionally, Xzibit employs a veterinary nurse who administers subcutaneous fluids at home to assist Thunder Cat’s kidney function. Xzibit stated, "We help her out by giving her fluids to make sure her kidneys don't have to work as hard." When asked about the annual cost of care, he emphasized, "I don't care what it costs to keep her alive. As long as she has quality of life and she's getting up and spending her days the way she does, I'm going to keep going."
Thunder Cat has gained fame thanks to Xzibit sharing her journey on social media, even leading to her own Instagram, Cameo, and TikTok accounts. Xzibit humorously noted that she is becoming more popular than he is, remarking on the unexpected turn from rapper to cat dad. Fans have responded positively, celebrating his affectionate connection with Thunder Cat: one remarked, "I love seeing men that love cats," while another mentioned, "A real man and a true cat dad."
Veterinary estimates indicate that fewer than 20 percent of cats live past 15 years, with indoor cats typically outliving outdoor ones due to fewer risks and regular veterinary care. Thunder Cat's age places her among a rare group of senior cats.