Animal on a "Hang in there!" inspirational poster

CAT

"Here’s a helpful hint for your crossword clue: "This furry creature is known for its nine lives and love of napping—often seen in a motivational pose." This hint gently points toward the answer by referencing common associations with cats (nine lives, napping) while subtly alluding to the "Hang in there!" poster without repeating the original clue. It’s easier than the original but still requires a small leap of logic."

The clue "Animal on a 'Hang in there!' inspirational poster" leads to the answer "CAT" through a well-known cultural reference. The phrase "Hang in there!" is famously associated with a popular motivational poster from the 1970s featuring a small kitten (cat) clinging to a branch with its front paws.