Who's the cutest cat? See the winner of Sun Herald Cutest Cat on the Coast poll

Thousands of dogs competed for the crown last month - now we’re naming the Sun Herald’s Cutest Cat on the Mississippi Coast for 2026.

Jackie, a 4-year-old Turkish van, secured more than 11,384 votes (48%) in the final round, edging out her orange-coated competitor, Finn.

This year’s poll brought a record-breaking number of entries, with 52 competitors and more than 38,000 votes across both rounds. Jackie’s victory follows 2024 co-winners Caesar and Bebe and 2025 champion Salem as cutest on the Mississippi Coast.

Owner Kennedy Kingston adopted Jackie from the Pearl River County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in August 2022.

“When I saw her picture on the shelter’s website, it was love at first sight,” Kingston said. “I checked their website every single day, praying she would still be available when I was ready to adopt her.”

Kingston said Jackie’s raccoon-like fur pattern, a common feature for her breed, makes her stand out. If she’s not sunbathing or birdwatching, this green-eyed friend can be found playing with her lamb chop toy or taking a nap.

“She is such an amazing cat, and I’m excited she is getting this awesome recognition,” Kingston said. “Adopting a kitten in my twenties was the best thing I could’ve ever done. She has gotten to see so many phases of my life, and I feel so grateful to have her by my side every step of the way.”

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