Yaniko Sato (佐藤 ヤニコ)

Yaniko Sato (also known as Yanineko or Yani Neko) is the main protagonist of Chainsmoker Cat. She is a catgirl living in the apartment building Nyagamihara in modern-day Japan.

Appearance

Yaniko has the typical features of a catgirl: cat ears, tail, and occasional cat-like behaviors. She has messy hair and often appears unkempt due to her lifestyle. She frequently ends her sentences with “-nya”, a verbal tic that marks her as more “feral” compared to other beastmen who have outgrown the habit.

Personality

Yaniko is characterized by her severe nicotine addiction. She spends nearly all her money on cigarettes, especially her favorite Mevius brand. When she runs out of money, she will:

• Dig through trash to find cigarette butts to re-smoke
• Pick up loose cigarettes off the ground
• Reuse partially-smoked butts
• Beg neighbors for cigarette money at 2 AM

Despite her flaws, Yaniko has a certain charm and resilience that draws people to her.

Background

Yaniko lives alone in a small apartment in Nyagamihara (a fictional town based on Sagamihara). She struggles to hold down jobs and pay her rent, often falling behind on payments. Her sister Imoko frequently visits to help clean her apartment and encourage her to quit smoking.

Relationships

• Imoko: Yaniko’s younger sister, who tries to help her get her life together
• Yakuko: Her neighbor and fellow addict who looks up to her
• Hameko: A classmate who occasionally hangs out at her apartment
• Landlord Otani: The building owner who struggles with her antics

Trivia

• Her name “Yani” means “tar” in Japanese, a reference to her smoking addiction
• She ranked 13th in the 2024 Next Manga Award
• The anime is voiced by Yuko Natsuyoshi