Kuching has plenty of cat statues, but the Cat Museum is where the joke becomes a full collection. My advice: treat it as a quirky indoor stop, not a reason to build an entire day around Bukit Siol.
The museum sits inside the DBKU headquarters on Bukit Siol, away from the usual Waterfront walking route. That location is the first thing to plan for: it makes more sense by car or e-hailing than as a casual add-on while exploring old Kuching.
[image: 1780884416332-kuching_cat_museum_entrance.jpg]
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Inside, the collection moves between cat-related art, advertising, stamps, toys, cultural beliefs and natural-history material. Some displays feel nostalgic rather than high-tech. I do not see that as a deal-breaker, but visitors expecting a modern interactive museum should set expectations correctly.
[image: 1780884416567-interior_view_of_kuching_cat_museum.jpg]
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Who will enjoy it most?
Cat lovers and families will get the easiest fun from it. The collection is broad enough for a slow browse, while the unusual theme gives children plenty to point at. If museums are not normally your thing, the novelty can still carry a short visit.
[image: 1780884416787-666_-_kuching_cat-museum.jpg]
Source: Wikimedia Commons
My honest verdict: worth doing when you have transport, spare time or need an indoor option. If your Kuching schedule is only one day, I would prioritise the Waterfront–Main Bazaar area and Borneo Cultures Museum first, then add the Cat Museum if the theme genuinely appeals to you.
[image: 1780884421939-cat_museum_001.jpg]
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Practical planning
Operating check — 2026-08-23: DBKU's current page lists 9:00am–4:30pm Monday–Sunday, except public holidays. I found no closure, relocation or upgrading notice on the official page today; hours can still change, so verify before leaving.
Location: DBKU headquarters, Bukit Siol, Petra Jaya
Getting there: Around 15–20 minutes by car from central Kuching when traffic is light
Time needed: Roughly 45–90 minutes for most visitors
Access: The museum is on an upper floor; use the building lift and follow DBKU signage
Before going: Confirm current opening hours, public-holiday arrangements and admission with DBKU
Best pairing: Petra Jaya, the north bank, Fort Margherita or a later Waterfront stop
[image: 1780884422139-cat_museum_002.jpg]
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Would I recommend it to everyone? Not automatically. But for cat people, rainy-day planners and anyone who enjoys odd little museums, it is one of Kuching's most distinctive stops.