Nyonta

Nyonta is generally affectionate and approachable despite his strange appearance. His behavior frequently resembles that of a pet cat, although his intelligence, expressions and physical actions can become considerably more humanlike whenever a joke requires it.

He forms an especially natural connection with Roboco, who is responsible for bringing him into the household. Nyonta's limited vocalization does not prevent him from communicating reactions clearly through expression and behavior.

Nyonta is much larger and physically stranger than an ordinary domestic cat. He possesses a substantial mane and can walk upright on two legs, immediately distinguishing him from normal animals.

The series deliberately avoids giving a straightforward biological explanation for him. His unusual physical behavior is generally treated as part of the comedy rather than as a defined supernatural ability.

Nyonta first appears when Roboco encounters him outside during heavy rain. Seeing what appears to be an abandoned animal, she takes him in, only for his size, mane, bipedal movement and peculiar "nyon" cry to make it obvious that he is not an ordinary cat.

He subsequently becomes a recurring member of the series' supporting cast. Nyonta appears in stories centered on the Taira household and occasionally accompanies the characters in larger group situations.

His presence also extends the series' running habit of introducing apparently simple everyday concepts—a stray cat in this case—before exaggerating them into something inexplicable.

Roboco finds Nyonta and brings him home. She quickly becomes attached to him and accepts his bizarre characteristics with considerably less concern than most people would.

Bondo Taira shares his household with Nyonta after Roboco takes the mysterious animal in.