Who does the cat represent in Animal Farm?

Question

It's well known that various characters represent real Soviet figures. Who does the cat, who is fond of shirking physical work but enjoys reaping the rewards, represent? Does the cat even have any significance in the novel?

Answer 1

The cat is simply an example of an individual, or individuals who remain but don't buy into the system. The cat doesn't work and only uses "animalism" to try and trick birds into coming close enough to be eaten.