Hello Kitty's hobbies include "baking cookies and making new friends," according to Sanrio's website. USA TODAY contacted Sanrio on Friday but has not received a response. Need a break?

On the 50th anniversary of Hello Kitty, fans were shocked to learn that their beloved cat-inspired character is, in fact, not a feline at all — she's a little girl.

On Thursday, July 18, Sanrio — the developers of Hello Kitty — confirmed that the beloved character is not a cat during an appearance on the 'Today' show.

At some point, Sanrio designated Kitty’s birthday as Nov. 1, the same as Shimizu’s. Her background was embellished with hobbies that included playing piano, reading and baking.

The Forever 21 x Hello Kitty 50th Anniversary Collection includes women’s, men’s and kids’ styles across apparel, jewelry, shoes and purses in addition to home decor.

A gold coin pendant with the image of Hello Kitty holding the number 50 is selling for about 120,000 yen ($800), while a Casio watch costs 18,700 yen ($120). But first, more on the origin story.

At some point, Sanrio designated Kitty’s birthday as Nov. 1, the same as Shimizu’s. Her background was embellished with hobbies that included playing piano, reading and baking.

At some point, Sanrio designated Kitty’s birthday as Nov. 1, the same as Shimizu’s. Her background was embellished with hobbies that included playing piano, reading and baking.