Paws and Prosperity: The Surprisingly Wealthy Pets of the Rich and Famous

Maria Assunta's Cat, Tommaso — $13 million inheritance

In Italy, a wealthy widow named Maria Assunta left her $13 million estate to her cat, Tommaso. The black stray cat that Assunta rescued in 2009 was reportedly her closest companion in her final years. Since direct inheritance for pets is not allowed by law in Italy, Tommaso's wealth is managed by the nurse who cared for Assunta in her final days. While Tommaso became a millionaire on paper, his lifestyle remained modest but well-cared for and he lived with his caretaker in a quiet, undisclosed location in Italy. Unlike Trouble, Tommaso's story attracted a lot more admiration than criticism for his owner's dedication to his welfare.