Hodge The Cat, London

Dr Samuel Johnson’s favourite feline friend is immortalised in a statue outside the famous writer’s home at 17 Gough Square, London. The black cat, called Hodge, sits on top of Johnson’s dictionary next to some empty oyster shells, his preferred treat.

Johnson was said to shop for the oysters himself, as he feared his servants would resent and dislike the cat if they were given the task.