A day in the life of Skabenga: The Oyster Box cat

With a name that translates to ‘vagabond’ or ‘hooligan’ in Zulu, Skabenga has earned his place as The Oyster Box’s most iconic and beloved resident. A stray who first wandered onto the property many years ago, this charming cat has since made himself an integral part of the hotel’s daily rhythm, winning the hearts of both the staff and countless guests.

Usually found lounging in the lobby, Skabenga believes his feline expertise is crucial in ensuring that every guest enjoys a truly exceptional stay. As a connoisseur of the finest cuisine, he also makes it his personal mission to ensure that the food served is always of the highest standard. Here, Skabenga shares his daily routine.

5am

I return home after another night of roaming the local neighbourhood, ensuring I’ve covered every nook and cranny. A quick bath is in order (though I don’t linger too long), before I claim my favourite spot on the oh-so-comfortable lobby couch. It’s the ideal perch for overseeing the comings and goings of the hotel.

7am

By this hour, the Mongoose have started their daily foraging for insects around the property – hardly my idea of a delectable breakfast, I must say. Meanwhile, the hotel staff begin to arrive for the day. I take great care to weave in and out of their legs before they have a chance to put their bags down. This subtle manoeuvre serves as a gentle reminder that I am famished and looking forward to my first meal of the day: the hotel’s scrumptious prawn cocktail.

8am

After a hearty breakfast, I resume my position on the lobby couch for some post-meal relaxation. There’s nothing quite like a comfortable nap to aid digestion.

12pm

Lunchtime! By now, I’m back at the office, eagerly awaiting my freshly prepared kingklip from the chef. But I won’t make it easy for him. As he walks by, I ensure to swipe at his ankles as a subtle reminder that my stomach is quite empty and in need of filling. The afternoon sun calls to me, and there’s no better way to soak it in than by lounging atop one of the hotel’s luxury cars.

2pm

Check-in time is upon us at The Oyster Box. I ensure I’m strategically positioned at the Concierge desk to put on a good show for the guests arriving. A quick pet here and there is part of my royal duties. I also keep an eye out for any dogs checking in – they must know, without a doubt, that I am the true king of this establishment.

2.30pm

Time for High Tea! I’m quite partial to a saucer of milk at this hour. Of course, I tend to get a bit tetchy around this time, especially when people mention that I’ve had too much to eat. But honestly, it’s not my fault – I have a thick coat of fur and rather large bones. Why can no one appreciate that?

3pm

The office calls once again. It’s time for my daily check-in with the Reservations staff – and of course, my essential Catnip fix. I prefer to enjoy it while sprawled out on the desks, rolling around for all to see. It’s one of my favourite party tricks. Should my staff be too absorbed in their work, I’m not shy about meowing loudly to remind them of their priorities.

4pm

A bit of relaxation is in order. I make my way outside to the front of the hotel and settle onto one of the loungers. A quick catnap in the sun is essential for my beauty sleep; after all, the night is still young and I need all my strength for the evening’s festivities.

9pm

And so, the real party begins! By now, the hotel is in full swing and I, as always, am the star of the show. My work is never truly done – it’s a full-time job being this fabulous.