For years, visitors to the Seventh Son Brewery in Columbus, Ohio, have been greeted not just by the smell of craft beer but by the soft purr of their most loyal employee — Horatio, the resident brewery cat.
Known affectionately as the “Assistant Manager,” Horatio has been part of the team since the brewery’s early days, charming both regulars and newcomers with his calm presence and curious nature.
Becoming the Brewery Beloved Cat
No one expected a stray who wandered into the neighborhood would become the heart of an entire business.
From the moment he settled into the brewery, Horatio made it his mission to make everyone feel welcome.
Whether lounging near the bar or patrolling the patio for pests, he quickly became the brewery’s unofficial mascot — and an irreplaceable member of the family.
But earlier this year, the mood inside the brewery changed when the team learned devastating news. Their beloved tabby had been diagnosed with fibrosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the connective tissues in cats.
The discovery left everyone heartbroken. Horatio wasn’t just a pet; he was their coworker, their comfort, and their symbol of joy.
A Hard Battle For A Cat Everyone Loved
It all started during a quiet afternoon at the brewery when one of the employees noticed a small lump on Horatio’s hind leg while giving him some well-deserved cuddles.
Concerned, they took him to the vet, hoping it was nothing serious. Instead, the diagnosis came like a punch to the gut — cancer.
The brewery’s co-founder, Collin Castore, said the entire team felt the news deeply. “He’s been here since the beginning,” he explained. “He’s part of our story. Everyone here loves him — the staff, the customers, even the delivery people.”
Instead of letting fear take over, the team decided to fight back — for Horatio. They launched a fundraiser and shared his story online, hoping their local community would rally behind their brave little manager.
What followed was nothing short of incredible.
Messages of support poured in from across Ohio and beyond. Customers, cat lovers, and even fellow brewers sent donations, cards, and prayers for Horatio’s recovery.
The Seventh Son team used this moment to do more than save their friend.
They wanted to raise awareness about feline cancer and give hope to other pet owners facing the same heartbreaking diagnosis. Their campaign helped spread valuable information about early detection and treatment options — something that could save many more lives.
A Triumphant Return To The Brewery
After months of treatment, including 19 radiation sessions, Horatio’s resilience paid off. His cancer went into remission, and his doctors declared him officially cancer-free.
When he finally returned to the brewery, the reunion was emotional. Staff members cried as he strutted back into his familiar space, tail high, ready to get back to “work.”
Customers cheered when they saw him lounging on his favorite barstool again. For everyone who had followed his journey, it was a moment of pure joy — proof that love, community, and persistence can make miracles happen.
Even though fibrosarcoma can sometimes return, Horatio’s team is doing everything to keep him healthy and comfortable.
Half of all donations collected are being shared with UC Davis’ Feline Cancer Research Fund and Ellie’s Rainy Day Fund — organizations that help pets and families in need. The remaining funds are set aside for Horatio’s ongoing care.
So far, this remarkable cat has raised more than $10,000 for charity, with a goal of reaching $20,000. Every dollar represents the kindness of strangers who wanted to make a difference.
The brewery continues to host fundraising events and create special-edition merchandise to support animal health initiatives — proving that one cat’s fight can inspire an entire movement of compassion.
Today, Horatio continues to greet visitors with the same calm charm that made him famous.
His story reminds everyone that even in the hardest battles, love and community can make healing possible.
The “Assistant Manager Cat” may not pour beer or ring up sales, but he’s managed to bring people together in the most extraordinary way.
For those who want to keep up with Horatio’s journey or support the brewery’s charitable efforts, the Seventh Son Brewery’s Instagram and website share regular updates on his adventures.
I’m Chris, a lifelong cat lover and rescue advocate based in Austin, Texas. What started with one scruffy shelter cat ten years ago turned into a mission — sharing the stories of cats who got their second chance. I believe every rescue cat has a tale worth telling, and I’m here to tell them. When I’m not writing, I’m probably being ignored by my own three rescues