Misty Malarky Ying Yang

Misty Malarky Ying Yang was the Carter family's Siamese cat — a cat with a name as unusual as the president who owned her, and a story that's pure character.

When Jimmy Carter moved into the White House in 1977, his daughter Amy brought along her beloved Siamese cat. The cat's name was almost as long as the presidency: Misty Malarky Ying Yang. It was a playful, whimsical name that perfectly suited the Carter family's down-to-earth style.

Misty was a gray-and-white Siamese with bright blue eyes and a personality to match. She was curious and independent, exploring the White House with the confidence of a cat who knew she owned the place. She was often seen lounging in the Oval Office, sitting on important papers, and supervising state dinners from the best vantage points.

Amy Carter adored her cat. Misty was a constant companion, sleeping on Amy's bed and following her around the house. The two were inseparable, and Misty was a familiar sight in the White House hallways — a small, elegant cat with a ridiculous name.

After the Carters left the White House in 1981, Misty went with them back to their home in Plains, Georgia. She lived a quiet, happy life in the small town, far from the cameras and the chaos of Washington. She remains one of the most charmingly named pets in White House history.