Medieval European monasteries became centers of cat appreciation, with monks recognising cats' essential role in protecting valuable manuscripts. The famous Book of Kells contains marginalia depicting cats, while the Lindisfarne Gospels include detailed cat illustrations, showing that even religious scribes appreciated feline companions.

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Monastery cats developed reputations for intelligence and discretion, qualities essential in environments requiring silence and contemplation. Historical records from monasteries across Europe describe cats that seemed to understand the importance of quiet behaviour during prayers and study periods. These accounts suggest that cats possess social intelligence that adapts to specific environments, a trait evident in cat cafe settings.

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The tradition of monastery cats spread throughout medieval Europe, with some cats achieving legendary status. The Abbey of Saint-Gall in Switzerland maintained detailed records of their cats, including names, personalities, and notable achievements in rodent control. This historical documentation provides some of the earliest recorded observations of individual cat behaviour and personality.