Ride a Giant Cat Mount in FFXIV: A Comprehensive Guide to the Shagcoat Cat

The world of Final Fantasy XIV is already brimming with fantastical creatures and majestic steeds, but Square Enix consistently adds even more allure to Eorzea with each update and addition to the Online Store. The latest offering is the Shagcoat Cat Mount, a gloriously oversized feline companion ready to whisk adventurers across the land and soar through the skies. Join us as we delve into everything you need to know about this magnificent mount, how to acquire it, and why it’s the purr-fect addition to your collection.

Acquiring Your Shagcoat Cat: A Simple Purchase, Enduring Joy

Unlike some mounts that require arduous quests or rare drops, obtaining the Shagcoat Cat is delightfully straightforward. This majestic beast is available for purchase directly from the Final Fantasy XIV Online Store for $24. While the price might seem a bit steep for a single mount, it’s essential to remember that this is an account-wide purchase. This means that every single one of your characters, present and future, will be able to summon their very own Shagcoat Cat. This account-wide availability greatly increases the overall value, making it a worthwhile investment for dedicated players with multiple characters.

Once you’ve made your purchase, a Shagcoat Cat Whistle will be delivered to each of your characters’ inventories. Simply use the whistle, and your feline friend will materialize, ready to carry you on your adventures. It’s that easy! No complicated quest chains, no frustrating RNG, just instant access to a unique and visually stunning mount.

A Closer Look: Design, Animations, and the Maine Coon Aesthetic

The Shagcoat Cat draws heavily from the design of long-haired cat breeds such as the Maine Coon or Norwegian Forest Cat. Its fur is thick and luxurious, giving it a distinct “shaggy” appearance that perfectly complements its name. The designers at Square Enix have paid meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that the mount looks both realistic and undeniably adorable.

Adding to its charm is a delightful blue bow tied around its neck, serving as a makeshift collar. This small detail adds a touch of sophistication and reinforces the idea that this is a well-cared-for, pampered pet. The mount’s overall aesthetic is a perfect blend of realism and fantasy, making it a visually appealing addition to the game.

Unique Mount Actions: A Feline’s Personality Unleashed

Beyond its striking appearance, the Shagcoat Cat truly shines through its unique mount actions. These animations add a layer of personality to the mount, making it feel more like a living creature than just a means of transportation. There are three distinct actions to discover:

• The Stretch: The cat gracefully arches its back and extends its paws, giving a satisfying, full-body stretch. This animation is perfect for those moments when you just want to relax and take in the scenery.
• The Paw Clean: In a display of fastidious grooming, the cat diligently cleans its paw with its tongue. This animation perfectly captures the meticulous nature of felines and is sure to bring a smile to your face.
• The Hiss: This is where the Shagcoat Cat reveals its wild side. With a sudden hiss and a display of teeth, the cat reminds you that beneath its fluffy exterior lies a creature with a bit of attitude.

These animations are not only visually appealing but also contribute significantly to the overall immersion of the game. They make the Shagcoat Cat feel like a genuine companion, adding a touch of realism and charm to your adventures.

Riding the Shagcoat Cat: On the Ground and Through the Skies

The Shagcoat Cat isn’t just a pretty face; it’s also a highly capable mount. Whether you’re traversing the sprawling landscapes of Eorzea or soaring through the aetherial currents, this feline friend is up to the task.

On the Ground: The Shagcoat Cat moves with a graceful lope, its thick fur swaying gently with each stride. It’s a comfortable and stylish way to travel, allowing you to appreciate the world around you in comfort. The mount’s size is also a significant advantage, providing a clear view of your surroundings.

In the Sky: When airborne, the Shagcoat Cat spreads its wings (yes, it magically sprouts wings!) and takes to the skies with surprising agility. The flight animations are smooth and fluid, making the experience both enjoyable and visually stunning. Gliding above the clouds on your giant feline companion is an experience that truly sets this mount apart.

The Feline Family: Other Cat Mounts in Final Fantasy XIV

While the Shagcoat Cat is the newest addition to the feline family, it’s not the only cat mount available in Final Fantasy XIV. If you’re a dedicated cat lover, you have several options to choose from:

• Fatter Cat: Based on the popular Fat Cat minion, this mount is an exercise in adorable excess. The Fatter Cat is round, fluffy, and undeniably charming, making it a favorite among players who appreciate a bit of whimsy. Like the Shagcoat Cat, it’s available in the Online Store for $24.
• Coeurl: This sleek and elegant mount was originally a bonus item included in the A Realm Reborn Collector’s Edition. The Coeurl is a classic feline design, with a muscular build and distinctive whiskers. While it’s no longer readily available, it remains a coveted mount among collectors.
• War Panther: Acquired through specific Dark Knight quests, is another option for players looking for a feline mount.

Each of these mounts offers a unique aesthetic and riding experience, allowing you to choose the feline companion that best suits your personal style.

Why the Shagcoat Cat is a Must-Have Mount

With so many mounts available in Final Fantasy XIV, you might be wondering why the Shagcoat Cat deserves a place in your stable. Here are a few compelling reasons:

• Unique Design: The Shagcoat Cat’s Maine Coon-inspired design is unlike any other mount in the game. Its shaggy fur, blue bow, and expressive animations make it a truly unique and visually appealing addition to your collection.
• Account-Wide Availability: The fact that this mount is available to all your characters makes it an incredibly valuable purchase. You won’t have to worry about grinding for hours on multiple characters to unlock it.
• Expressive Animations: The Shagcoat Cat’s mount actions bring it to life, making it feel like a genuine companion. The stretch, paw clean, and hiss animations add a layer of personality that’s often missing in other mounts.
• Versatile Travel: Whether you’re exploring the land or soaring through the sky, the Shagcoat Cat is a capable and comfortable mount. It’s a versatile choice for any adventure.
• Instant Gratification: Unlike mounts that require lengthy questlines or rare drops, the Shagcoat Cat is available instantly upon purchase. You can start riding your feline friend right away.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Feline Flight

The Shagcoat Cat is more than just a mount; it’s a statement. It’s a declaration of your love for cats, your appreciation for detailed design, and your commitment to enjoying everything that Final Fantasy XIV has to offer. So, head over to the Online Store, grab your Shagcoat Cat Whistle, and prepare to embark on a new era of feline-fueled adventures. The skies of Eorzea await!