On Mother's Day, actress Aditi Rao Hydari shares her life as a mom of two cats and how she connects with her pets despite being away on long shoots

Aditi Rao Hydari, who was last seen in director Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Netflix series Heeramandi, is a proud mom. The actress got married to actor Siddharth in 2024 and the duo have been navigating their personal and professional ventures while also fulfilling their duties as parents. Yes, Aditi and Siddharth are proud pet parents of two adorable Persian cats, Iggy and Ollie, that they brought home through adoption. Now, on the occasion of Mother’s Day 2026, May 10, Aditi has opened up about her life with the felines, navigating through mom guilt and how cats bond uniquely with their owners.

Aditi Rao Hydari on life with cats

Aditi Rao Hydari, in a conversation with Mid-Day, revealed that it was her cousin who informed the actress about a litter ready for adoption in Hyderabad. From the moment she brought Iggy and Ollie home, her life changed for the better with Aditi and her husband becoming ‘designated treat dispensers’.



Aditi Rao Hydari, however, expressed her concern that hectic shooting schedules and travel plans sometimes make it difficult for her to spend enough quality time with her pets. Recalling a few anecdotes, the actress said that when she returns home from work, the felines look at her with anger as if asking her, ‘How dare you? How could you do this to us?’ giving her ‘attitude’ for leaving them at home for a long time.

Aditi Rai Hydari decodes cat behaviour

Unlike most people who perceive cats as aloof, Aditi Rao Hydari disagrees with the notion. She believes that cats have a different way of showing affection. To build a bond with these furry animals, one needs to let go of their ego, the actress stressed, highlighting how pets are sensitive and can feel your energy.

Expressing her fondness towards cats, Aditi Rao Hydari admitted that she loves watching the felines, admiring their self-respect and dignity. ‘They are so beautiful, and they live life on their own terms,’ she noted, adding that an individual has to earn the love of cats, as they do not just come to you on their own, unlike dogs. Aditi finds this quality incredible, emphasizing the fact that there’s a lot to learn from cats.

Remembering her childhood memories, Aditi Rao Hydari disclosed that she had a pet cat named Sufi and people used to compare the animal’s facial features with hers. ‘Everybody would say that we looked like sisters because we had similar eyes and face shape, she revealed, adding that even now, many people tell the actress that she has a cat-like face.