In his modest Guangdong, southern China, apartment, 82-year-old Mr. Long sits next to Xianba, his affectionate cat. Her gentle purring fills the apartment as she snuggles into his lap, oblivious to the attention she now commands across the globe. This July has seen Mr. Long in headlines throughout the world after declaring that he will be leaving all his belongings ranging from his apartment, accumulations, and assets to whoever will look after Xianba when he is gone.
“She’s all I have left,”
Mr. Long shared in a local broadcast aired by Guangdong Radio and Television.
“Since my wife died ten years ago, it’s just been me and her. I rescued her and her kittens during a storm. She was the only one who survived. We’ve looked after each other ever since.”
The news, which broke in early July 2025, gained rapid widespread attention upon being picked up by mainstream media outlets like South China Morning Post, NDTV, and Hindustan Times, and proliferated widely through X. An article by Dexerto recounting the touching arrangement elicited emotional reactions and intense argumentation across the globe. Numerous people referred to the story as The Aristocats and described it as
“a real-life Disney story.”
But Mr. Long’s decision is more than whimsical it reflects both personal need and cultural change. With no children or close relatives, his biggest concern is ensuring Xianba’s well-being. Thanks to China’s updated Civil Code, introduced in 2021, he’s legally allowed to name anyone including non-family members as heirs to his estate. While pets cannot directly inherit assets, the law permits wealth transfers to caretakers acting on behalf of the animals.
The growing role of pets in Chinese households provides a broader backdrop to Long’s choice. As of 2024, China had over 124 million pet cats and dogs a 2.1% increase year-on-year. The pet economy is booming, reaching an estimated 300 billion yuan (US$42 billion), highlighting the emotional and financial value people are placing on their animal companions.
Still, not everyone is purring with delight. Legal experts warn that Mr. Long’s arrangement could trigger inheritance challenges.
“If distant relatives dispute the will, it could lead to lengthy legal battles,”
said one commentator on Hindustan Times. Others worry about potential abuse: without strict pet welfare laws in China, what guarantees that a chosen carer will treat Xianba with love and not just chase the money?
Even so, thousands have come forward online offering to care for Xianba many insisting they want nothing in return. One viral comment read,
“I’d love her like my own. No need for the money just tell me where to go.”
Another post suggested Long set up a trust or legal guardian system to monitor Xianba’s future, ensuring her needs are met and intentions respected.
As the world watches, Long continues his quiet search for the right person.
“I just want someone who truly loves animals,”
he said.
“That’s all I ask.”
The story of Mr. Long and Xianba isn’t just about inheritance it’s a tender reminder of aging, loneliness, and the unconditional bond between humans and pets. In an era when many worry about their loved ones outliving them, Long’s choice speaks volumes.
