YourCatApril2021

FREEBIES : ● Cat towers ● Joint supplements ● Cat beds
● Self-cleaning litter boxes ● Cross-stitch kits
BRITAIN’S
BEST-SELLING
CAT MAGAZINE
No1

R15
UK ONLY

April 2021 £4.60

04
9 771353 260182

Real life CELEBRITY
INTERVIEW:
Blue
Cross AUTHOR ANDREW CARTMEL
Medal
winner 10 WAYS
Carrots TO BE AN
ECO-FRIENDLY
BREED FOCUS: CAT OWNER

RAGDOLL WHY CAN’T
I RESCUE?
How to care
for a senior kitty When shelters

SAY NO

COULD YOU BE A

CAT WHISPERER?

Find out if you’re a natural
at understanding cats

HERO CATS

CATS WHO SAVED THEIR OWNERS’ LIVES

Receive It’s such a
GLƪ HUHQFH
£50 OFF to a cat’s
quality of
any order over
£400 with promo OLIH
code ‘YOURCAT’
Vicky Halls
Expires 30th
April 2021 Animal Behaviour
Counsellor and Author

Cat Fence Cat Catios
Barriers Enclosures

www.protectapet.com
0800 999 4008

[email protected]

It’s been great to recently speak (over email) and home working, the number of letters we 5 THINGS
to some Your Cat subscribers.There was a received did dip. However, I love sharing your WE LEARN IN
range of feedback on the magazine; some stories and as long as we have enough to fill it, THIS ISSUE…
thanking us for a prize they had won, a few the Cat Chat section will be three pages — so
wanting to know why the number of Cat Chat keep writing to us! TAIWAN
pages had been reduced, and others getting HAS A
in touch to say they’d enjoyed a particular To give you an insight, one of the things WORLD-FAMOUS
feature. I always pour over is the different types of CAT VILLAGE!
content we bring. Have we got lots of practical
It’s always great to hear from you. I mention advice from experts? Are there plenty of That when
it a lot, but make no apology for it as I don’t amazing stories about cats that you wouldn’t rescue centres
think it can be said enough: the magazine is get anywhere else? Are there chances for say no to potential
nothing without the readers.There are millions readers to tell their stories? Every issue, we try adopters, it’s part
of cat owners out there, but to delve into Your to bring great variety.There are some tricky of matching the
Cat Magazine means you really love cats decisions to be made, but being the editor is right cat, with the
— and we appreciate that you’re part of the an absolute joy!
brilliant Your Cat community. right home.
I hope this month’s magazine delivers that
Of course, it’s heartening to get lovely and look forward to hearing from more of you Those with
comments. Every member of the Your Cat team in the future. more experience
does their job because we want the magazine of cats are better
to have a positive impact on your love of cats. Until next month, at reading their
When we get nice messages, it confirms that
we’re doing just that. Michael emotions.

It is just as nice receiving constructive Editor
criticism though — genuinely. We want to
provide more of the content you want to read.
You’ll notice that the Cat Chat section is back
up to three pages this issue. With the pandemic

The profile
of a person who

is more likely
to choose an

indoor-only
lifestyle for
their cat.

HOW SIMPLE
CHANGES CAN

HELP YOU
BE A MORE
ECO-FRIENDLY
CAT OWNER.

www.yourcat.co.uk 3

Contents April 2021

30

42

6PICTURE OF THE MONTH 28HERO CATS 44UNEXPECTED ARRIVALS
A fascinating feline image — and Meet the remarkable felines Behaviourist Peter Neville helps a
the story behind it. who saved their owners’ lives by alerting first-time cat owner.
them to life-threatening diseases.
8WHAT’S NEW PUSSYCAT? 46SENIOR KITIZENS
The latest feline related news, 30ANDREW CARTMEL How to make life easier and
products, and books. We sit down with author and more comfortable for your elderly kitty.
former Dr Who script writer Andrew
12COULD YOU BE Cartmel to talk about his love of cats. 50WHY CAN’T
A CAT WHISPERER? I ADOPT A CAT?
32SCIENCE OF CATS
Some people have a natural ability Dr Lauren Finka explains the Sometimes rescue centres say
for understanding cats — and it’s findings of a study that looked at how no. Here we find out why.
something you can learn too! owners choose an indoor or outdoor
lifestyle for their cat. 52THE COMPROMISE CAT
16DIARY OF A CAT-SITTER A funny story of how a cat
When he’s asked to feed a cat 36CAT BREED INDEX owner moves in with her pet sceptic
for a new client, Chris suspects that This month’s breed focus sees partner.
something doesn’t quite add up. the sociable and hugely popular
Ragdoll take centre stage. 55MY FIRST CAT
17FREEBIES! Jenny Graham’s search for
There’s a host of prizes up for 38CAT CARE a first feline friend led her family to a
grabs — what do you want to win? Our experts answer your feline rescue centre — and beautiful cat
queries and questions. Frankie.
18LOVE IS BLIND
In this month’s real-life feature, 42MAKE SURE YOU’RE 56PAWTRAITS
we meet Carrots, the Blue Cross Medal READY FOR FLEA,TICK, An exciting exhibition of your
winning cat. AND WORM SEASON pet pictures.

20CAT CHAT Pet care brand Bob Martin talk us 58PICKLE’S PUZZLES
We share your stories! through tackling parasites. There’s a mental workout with
a range of puzzles.
2410 WAYS TO BE 43INTERNATIONAL
AN ECO-FRIENDLY CAT CARE DIARY 62DIARY OF
CAT OWNER A FARM CAT
The leading feline charity is asking if
How we can all do a little bit to you can help with research into feline Farm cat Cookie comes to
help the planet. welfare. explore her territory.

4 Your Cat April 2021

18 Image: Blue Cross. GET IN TOUCH!

12 Freebies Write to us: Your Cat Magazine,
24 Warners Group Publications,
Over The Maltings, West Street,
1,250 Bourne, Lincolnshire PE10 9PH.
-worth of Email us:
prizes [email protected]
Subscription queries:
CLICK 01778 395176
TO ENTER Share with us:

Search for @YourCatMagazine
on Facebook,Twitter,

Instagram, and Pinterest.

Editorial queries:
01778 395070

Advertising queries:
01778 395064

[email protected]

THE TEAM

Editor: Michael Hallam
Design & production
Designer: Chris Smith
Production manager: Nigel Fish
Production assistant: Mel Hudson
Colour repro: Graham Warren

Digital/websites
Web editor: Laura Wright

Marketing
Marketing executive: Ellis O’Connell

Advertising
Commercial manager: Andrea Walters

Account manager: Kay Cotterill
Publisher

Warners Group Publications Plc
Publisher: James Buzzel
Printing
Warners (Midlands) Plc
Cover image
Warren Photographic Ltd.

Images: *pictures courtesy of Alamy Stock
Photo. More details at www.alamy.com

DON’T FORGET!

You can pick up your favourite mag
from most grocery stores, including Tesco
and Sainsbury’s, WHSmith, independent

newsagents, or from our online shop:
www.yourcat.co.uk/store
May issue, out 15th April

Recycle your mag! If you subscribe, the bag
you received your mag in is made from potato starch
and will biodegrade.The magazine is fully recyclable

and responsibly sourced.

We cannot be held responsible for the return of photos
so please keep copies. Nothing in this magazine

may be reproduced in whole or part without written
permission of the publisher.Your Cat is a registered
trademark.Terms & conditions, plus competition rules,

can be found on our website.

Speak to your newsagent to reserve
your copy of Your Cat every month.

www.yourcat.co.uk 5

PICTURE OF THE MONTH

The story behind the photo...

Perched on the ledge, this cat lives in the world increased and the village has become a tourist
famous Houtong Cat Village.Tucked away in the destination for cat lovers from across the globe.
northern tip of Taiwan, the village was once a Cafes, museums, and attractions have prospered as
thriving mining village, but in the 1990s industry so many people come to see the cats.
began to die out and the number of residents
dwindled. There are now over 200 cats who live freely in
the community.Volunteer teams look after the cats,
In 2008, a local cat lover organised for the ensuring they receive veterinary care and keeping
villagers to care for stray cats. When they started track of feline numbers. It looks as if this cat has had
posting pictures of the cats on social media, there its ear tipped — a small portion cut away under
was an overwhelming response.The number of cats anaesthetic to indicate that it has been neutered.

Image: Courtesy of Alamy Stock Photos.



PuWshsat’ys ncew at? Feline news ● New cat products ●

POLITICAL PUSS

LARRY CELEBRATES

10 YEARS AT

NUMBER 10 Larry has
reached a
milestone.

Downing Street cat Larry has recently would turn out to be. Image credit: Justin Ng.
celebrated 10 years as chief mouser “Throughout his time at Number 10,
at Number 10. Over the last decade, day on the job, and despite rumours to the
the rescue cat has become the leading Larry has proven himself to not only be contrary, Mr Cameron confirmed the pair
feline figure of British politics, often seen a brilliant ambassador for Battersea, but were friends when he dedicated part of his
at the famous big, black door. also demonstrated to millions of people final speech in Parliament to Larry, saying:
around the world how incredible rescue “Sadly, I cannot take Larry with me — he
To celebrate his anniversary as one of cats are. His rags to riches tale is yet belongs to the house and the staff love
British politics’ brightest stars, Battersea more proof of why all animals deserve a him very much, as do I.”
has shared some of its favourite moments second chance — one minute they may
of one of its most famous rescuees. be an overlooked stray on the streets, Larry was also there to offer his support
the next they could become one of the when the next Prime Minister,Theresa May,
Larry the cat came to the Battersea nation’s beloved political figures, with left office — caught live on camera being
cattery as a stray before his confident fans around the world.” forcibly removed from his sunbathing
nature secured him a place at one of spot and escorted away by security so
London’s most famous residences. BEST MOMENTS that he wouldn’t upstage the outgoing
Prime Minister’s announcement. Now
Battersea’s head of catteries and feline During his tenure as chief mouser, Larry working under his third Prime Minister, Boris
welfare Lindsey Quinlan says:“It seems has been a trusted companion to not Johnson, the 14-year-old tabby remains as
like only yesterday Larry came to our one, not two, but three Prime Ministers. prolific as ever, providing some light relief
cattery as a stray in need of a home. David Cameron was ready and waiting with impromptu photo opportunities.
I don’t think anyone back then could at Number 10 to greet Larry on his first
have imagined just how incredible his life No matter what he does, Larry can do
no wrong in the eyes of his fans. Simply
Larry loves being caught in the rain was enough to
the spotlight. melt hearts the world over in 2018 when
a police officer guarding Number 10
took pity on the soggy moggy after he
was caught in a downpour.The scene of
a kind policeman escorting Larry to the
door and helping him inside unfolded in
the background of live news reports and
quickly went viral.

Over the years, Larry has become a
household name, with a huge social
media following, an annual calendar,
dedicated news reports from overseas
broadcasters, and now even a children’s
book all about his life.

A Number 10 spokesperson says:
“A much beloved member of the Number
10 team, Larry plays a vital role as chief
mouser, and in delighting staff and the
public alike with his playful antics.

“We’re proud to support Battersea and
other animal welfare organisations in their
mission to ensure our furry friends have a
loving and safe home.”

8 Your Cat April 2021

Bookshop ● Instagram star interview ● Legislation New cat
products
Bookshop What's hitting the CLICK
book shelves? TO WIN The brand-new Ready
Grown Cat Grass Tray
‘CRAZY CAT LADY: 50 COOL-GIRL QUIRKS THAT (available in regular or
PROVE THERE’S NOTHING CRAZY ABOUT LOVING large) by My Cat Grass is
CATS’ BY ALISON DAVIES (QUADRILLE PUBLISHING a premium quality, organic
LTD) certified, fresh cat grass,
grown ready for your cat
Enigmatic, alluring, and almost always quirky, cats and to enjoy. Using only the
the ladies that love them share much in common. As finest, certified organic
individual as their feline counterparts, crazy cat women and vegan soil and seeds,
exude charm and, while they have their eccentricities, My Cat Grass ensure their
they refuse to hide them. Instead, they take centre stage food-grade cat grass meets the highest
and celebrate what makes them unique; the bond standards.You can also get the new Ready
between femme fatale and feline furry. So, here’s to all Grown Cat Grass Tray Station to hold your
you feline loving ladies! This book is a celebration of your Cat Grass Tray, which comes in a unique,
pawsomeness. modern design to serve your cat grass at
● £8.99 the correct height for your cat. Its modern
style and contemporary colours mean
‘LARRY AT NUMBER 10’ BY ELIZABETH C RADCLIFFE the My Cat Grass Tray Station will suit any
(TROUBADOR) home. Choose between overnight delivery
or monthly/every other month on their
Awesome (some might say paw-some) Larry is Top Cat at subscription service.
Number 10, that is until his boss, the Prime Minister, gets Prices start from £14
a dog called Dilyn. If you can even call this ridiculous www.mycatgrass.co.uk
puppy a dog. For one thing, he chases his own tail, guzzles
sausage-strings, and chews things to pieces. How Our furry friends are more than
paw-thetic! For another, Larry is chief mouser at Number just pets, they’re part of the family.That’s
10, head of paw-trolling, and champion at window-ledge why experts at Silentnight have launched
sitting. Larry is important and the hero of the mouse a pet bed range that uses the exact
catching scoreboard. So, what possible job can dopey same technology featured in their human
Dilyn do? His whiskers out of joint, Larry tries (and fails) to bedding, so you know your four-legged
put Dilyn in the doghouse, but then catastrophe strikes as friends are getting a fabulous night’s
a cat-burglar breaks in and cat-naps Larry! Can Dilyn rise sleep. Silentnight’s Airmax Pet Bed features
to the occasion and save the day? And if he does, will Larry a reversible dual-season cushion with
give his a-paw-logies? Based on the real cat and dog team Airmax technology to
living at Number 10, this charming picture book is a treat to enhance the
read for any child aged 0 — 5, and their parents, too! circulation of
● £9.99 airflow and
freshness.
‘SOCKS AND MITTENS GO EXPLORING’ BY Available in sizes
CHARLOTTE REYNOLDS (PAWS FOR THOUGHT small, medium,
BOOKS) and large, prices
start from £29.99.
Join Socks and Mittens in their first adventure! Socks and www.sleepypeople.com
Mittens are two mischievous kittens who love exploring.
One day, they decide to explore past their garden and see Doc & Phoebe are experts in cats.
what adventures they can find.They get themselves into Developed by leading US-based
some exciting and sometimes dangerous situations; but veterinarian Liz Bales, the brand has yet
they also meet some new friends along the way.This is the again expanded their range. Pet Trade
first story in the Socks and Mittens series. Innovations are the UK supplier for these
● £4.99 innovative products and are excited to
bring the new Twirly Bird treat
FIVE TO WIN! feeder to the Doc &
Turn to page 59 to find out how to enter to win. Phoebe range.The
Also, get a FREE downloadable Socks and Mittens 60+ page treat feeder is a
activity booklet by visiting www.pawsforthoughtbooks.co.uk/ bird-shaped food and
shop/ols/products/socks-and-mittens-activity-book-perfect- treat dispenser. Keeping
for-home-schooling and using the exclusive discount code your cats natural hunt
YOURCAT421 at the checkout! Valid until June 30, 2021. and catch instincts
alive, as they have to
swat the bird to release
the food.
£9.99
www.pettradeinnovations.com

www.yourcat.co.uk 9

PuWshsat’ys ncew at? Feline news ● New cat products ●

CHARITY GOVERNMENT’S TENANCY
AGREEMENT WELCOMED
Cat CV tool created to
help cat-owning tenants Battersea has welcomed the
Government’s announcement of a new
Cats Protection has created an own a pet cat, and it is heart-breaking Model Tenancy Agreement designed to
online tool for cat owners that that so many people are not able to.” make it easier for tenants with pets to find
it hopes will help persuade more rented accommodation.
landlords to allow their tenants to have She continues: “Cats rarely cause
a cat. problems in rented homes but our Cat Peter Laurie, Battersea’s interim chief
CV can help reassure landlords who executive, says:“At Battersea, we see far
The charity’s Purrfect Landlords CV may be nervous about allowing them. too many heartbroken owners forced
tool is available to download for free We hope it will help more renters find to give up their pets due to housing
and helps owners create a summary to a happy cat-friendly home where they problems — it’s the second biggest reason
show their cat is responsibly-owned and can feel settled.” people bring their dogs and cats to us.
well cared for. Owners can also include
references from previous landlords Recent changes to the Government’s “The announcement demonstrates
to confirm their cat has not caused Model Tenancy Agreement means the Government’s clear, continued
any problems. It has been created consent for pets will be the default commitment to improving access to pet
after it was estimated that one million position, and landlords using it will have ownership for renters, as well as helping
households across the UK would like to object in writing within 28 days of a to support and promote responsible pet
to have a cat, but can’t due to the fact written pet request from a tenant and ownership.”
they are in a rental property. provide a good reason.
Battersea has long campaigned for
Cats Protection’s Head of Advocacy Jacqui says: “Cats Protection is more rented accommodation to be pet
and Government relations Jacqui Cuff delighted the Government has recently friendly so that a larger number of people
says: “During the past year, we’ve heard updated the Model Tenancy Agreement can enjoy the many positive health and
countless stories from owners about to make it easier for tenants to enjoy social benefits of pet ownership.
how important their cat has been. the companionship of a pet. However,
People tell us their cats have provided this change will only have an impact The charity’s Pet Friendly Properties
comfort in worrying times, a playful if a landlord opts to use the Model report revealed 60 per cent of households
companion for children as they home Renancy Agreement — the use of which in London will be in rented homes by
school, and helped reduce stress while is entirely voluntary; there is no legal 2025, yet currently 55 per cent of private
getting to grips with working from home. requirement for landlords to use it. landlords do not allow any pets, depriving
many of the companionship of an animal.
“But very sadly, many people have “For those renters who are dealing
been denied the simple pleasure of with a landlord who does not use the Peter adds:“The pandemic has brought
owning a cat, simply because they rent Government's Model Tenancy a lot of issues within society to the fore,
rather than own their home. Now more Agreement, we hope our Cat CV tool including loneliness and isolation. We
than ever, we all deserve the chance to will help them make a good case for already know that pets can play a crucial
allowing cats.” role in helping to tackle these problems,
something we’ve previously highlighted
info link with our Pet Friendly Properties campaign.
With so many of us now spending the
For more information about Cats Protection’s Purrfect Landlords majority of our time in our homes, it is
campaign and to download an example Cat CV, visit: more important than ever that tenancy
www.cats.org.uk/what-we-do/campaigning/purrfectlandlords issues are addressed.

“This new Model Tenancy Agreement is
a great step in the right direction for pet
owners, but it is vital that we continue to
have conversations around how we can
help everyone have the opportunity to
enjoy the many benefits of pet ownership,
no matter where they live.”

More renters
may be able to
have cats soon.

10 Your Cat April 2021

Bookshop ● Instagram star interview

Cat-ching up with...
INSTAGRAM CAT BELLA

We speak to owner Gemma Clark, from West Sussex,
about her sweet little cat, Bella.

Instagram name: a hole in the middle of the Playful Bella.
@sweet_little_bella_ Christmas tree, with baubles,
Followers: over 3,000. tinsel, and branches loose her craziness and personality.
Name: Bella. and on the floor — we are still
Age: 1. convinced she belly-flopped Q) Bella is so photogenic! Do
Favourite treat: Pickles Treats into it! you have any useful tips or
from Pets at Home. advice on taking a good pet
Favourite thing to do: Going Q) Why did you decide to photo?
crazy and making people jump! create an Instagram account A Definitely using toys is a
Favourite toy: Her mousey. for Bella? good trick to get Bella to look
A Bella has a big character at the camera, and taking
Q) Tell us all about Very and always made us smile photos at her eye level so
the first time you photogenic. — we created her account to she is looking straight into
met Bella… not only keep a diary of her the camera (she’s a bit of a
A We had only just started Q) Bella looks like such a growing up but also to share poser!). Another good thing is
looking for a kitten to adopt cute, innocent little girl, but to have natural lighting and
when we found an advert does she also have a cheeky, catching her when she least
for her. Her previous owner naughty side?
found very quickly that she A Bella has a very cheeky expects it, that way
didn’t have the time to take side! She’s been a bundle the photo is a lot more
care of her so, of course, we of energy since a kitten and natural.
had to take her home! When has such a big personality.
we arrived to pick her up, She particularly loves making Q) Describe Bella’s
although she was nervous at us jump! She will hide personality in just
first, she came running over to behind doors and jump three words…
play with us and we instantly up out of nowhere, and A Sweet, loving,
gained her trust. We also then go completely and playful.
really liked the name Bella, hyper afterwards! Bella
and little did we know, so did has also just had her
her previous owner — we first Christmas so that
didn’t know her name until we was fun. One morning,
arrived! we came down to

WELFARE She's very sweet.

FIVE-YEAR SENTENCES FOR by Chris Loder MP in February 2020.The
ANIMAL CRUELTY ONE STEP CLOSER Government has previously indicated
that they intend to support the Bill during
Battersea has welcomed long-awaited over 150 MPs from across Parliament. passage through Parliament and into law.
progress on new legislation to increase Battersea’s interim chief executive Scotland changed their own law in July
sentences for animal cruelty offences. 2020.
Peter Laurie says:“This is a significant step
The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill in forward for animal welfare. It has been a The Bill will now proceed to its final
England and Wales passed its Second long time coming and we’re encouraged stages in the House of Commons before
Reading back in October 2020, and, to at last see headway being made in moving to the House of Lords.
almost four months later, has now passed Westminster. We look forward to seeing
the Committee Stage of its passage the Bill completing its passage in this The commitment to protecting animals
through the House of Commons. parliamentary term.” is getting stronger with the new law.

The leading animal welfare charity has After suffering many delays and www.yourcat.co.uk 11
been campaigning for many years to setbacks in which the previous Animal
increase maximum sentences for animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill in England and
cruelty from six months to five years in Wales was subsequently dropped, the
prison — a call supported by tens of increase to maximum sentences was
thousands of members of the public and reintroduced as a Private Member’s Bill

info link For more information, visit https://notfunny.battersea.org.uk/

Could you be a cat

whisperer?

Some people just have the knack of Yvonne Martin is a
understanding cats, for others it’s a freelance journalist who
learning curve.Yvonne Martin reports specialises in health and
on how you can find out if you naturally well-being features. She
have this special skill — and how to is a lifelong cat-lover and
improve your ability. lives with a shorthair tabby
called Rita, who has her
As I sit working at my desk own Instagram account
upstairs, I hear the catflap flip @ritascatworld
open and the hasty padding of
paws through the kitchen and RESEARCH REVEALS
up the stairs, accompanied by a throaty,
chirruping series of meows. The unsettling news from
some interesting Canadian
I call out to my little companion Rita to research, though, is that
let her know where I am, because it feels however much of a cat
to me as though she’s calling me. OK, lover a person considers
maybe I’ve been working from home too themselves to be, it seems
long, I don’t know, but it pleases me to to have no bearing on
feel that we can communicate with each their ability to read and
other. But could I be a cat whisperer? comprehend a variety of
Someone who genuinely does know how cats’ faces. I know! It’s a blow,
their cat is feeling and what they need, isn’t it?
and can use that knowledge to build
a bond. Even one of the academics
who carried out the research
Understanding the sounds your cat happily admits to being a
makes and, perhaps more importantly, little miffed by this discovery.“I
what their facial expressions and overall was interested in that too and
posture mean is an important part of slightly personally hurt,” said
life with a cat, and perhaps one of its cat lover and professor in the
greatest pleasures. Many of us who share department of integrative
our homes with cats may fancy that we biology at the University of
have that special level of insight. Guelph in Ontario, Canada,
Dr Georgia Mason.
If we could read
cats better there Georgia and the team
would be many carried out research into
how accurately people
benefits... could read cats’ facial
expressions.They did not
go into the details of subtle
emotions; it was simply a
question of whether the cat
pictured was in a negative or
positive state.They selected
the images from YouTube
videos and were careful to

12 Your Cat April 2021 The tail held high, sometimes
with a kink, is usually a sign
of contentedness.

Could you have a talent
for understanding cats?

make sure any clues from the “It’s an order of magnitude Do you have
what it takes to be
surroundings or the cats’ body different from the rest of us,” a cat whisperer?

posture were removed. As a said Georgia.“And they’re TAKE THE TEST

result, it was a pretty tough seeing cats in a whole range Your first stop is a test put out by the team who carried
out the University of Guelph research.This isn’t from
test. But why didn’t the cat of states.They’re seeing the original study, but was made available after the
research stirred up so much interest. So far, it has
lovers do better? them in some really dreadful been taken by more than 300,000 people around the
world.Visit uoguelph.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_
“We think that it’s probably states — intense nausea from cBGMqIIYSsurKW9 and give it a go. Be warned, it starts
out fairly easy… and gets harder.
a couple of things going poisoning or chemotherapy,
HOW MUCH EXPOSURE TO
on,” says Georgia.“If you just really intense pain, really CATS HAVE YOU HAD?

know your own cat really well, intense fear, and most of us There’s no substitute for experience.The Canadian
research highlighted the higher skill levels of vets and
you may not have that many don’t see that, so I think that vet technicians and they think it’s largely down to time
spent observing a range of cats.“Your brain gets trained
close encounters with very gives them a broader range even without you knowing it,” said Georgia.“Think of
the amazing skills of, for example, wine tasters who can
many individual cats; of experience.” identify whether the slopes the grapes were grown on
faced north. I think people with tonnes of experience
maybe half a dozen Dkindoywo?u More than that, develop these amazing recognition abilities that most of
in your life, and a vet’s motivation us can’t imagine.”
hopefully you
only see them to understand ARE YOU FEMALE?
what a
Women did better than men on the test… but only by a
when they’re The ways felines cat’s facial very small margin.“It’s hard to know whether women are
rather content. communicate are expression societally conditioned to be more attuned to emotion or
the subject of various means is much whether it’s a biological effect. It’s subtle but it’s seen in a
“We didn’t number of studies,” said Georgia.

test whether studies around the more than a www.yourcat.co.uk 13
people who love
world. casual interest.

their cats are better “We couldn’t

at reading their own cats. help wondering if it just

My hunch would be they are.” matters more if you’re a vet

The group that did do or a vet tech because if you

better at recognising the make the wrong decision, you

meaning of the cats’ facial could get bitten or an animal

expressions, however, were might get sicker. Whereas

vets and vet technicians. the stakes are lower for a pet

There could be a number of owner,” said Georgia.

reasons why they do so well “There’s so much work we

and one of them is the sheer want to do now,” said Georgia.

number of different cats they “We would love to know what

are likely to see compared to is it that people are seeing.

the average owner. What is it that cats are doing? ▼

We don’t actually know. We interactions with them more Improve your cat
need somebody now to go rewarding. communication skills
through the videos and do
quite mathematical labelling “People who don’t like cats Cat behaviour and welfare scientist, and resident Your Cat
of aspects such as where find them aloof and cryptic, expert, Dr Lauren Finka believes there is so much to be
is the corner of the mouth? but actually they’re not aloof gained from improving your ability to communicate with
Where are the two corners of and cryptic, they’re just subtle your cat.“I don’t like the term ‘cat whisperer’ though, I prefer
each eye? What is the angle and challenging. If we could ‘cat listener,’” she said.
of the whiskers? to try and make it easier for people to
quantify what it is that people read cats, they might find It’s all about quietly observing subtle differences in
are detecting, and then once them more rewarding as their posture, behaviour, and facial expressions in order to
you’ve done that, you can pets. People on the cusp understand them better; not imposing anything on them
make a training tool.” might be tipped over into and Lauren recommends a holistic approach.
thinking ‘OK, there is some
If we could read cats better interesting stuff going “It’s important that we look at a range of different
there would be a number of on here’ if they could read it.” behaviours so don’t just focus on one in particular,”
benefits. Firstly, it would help So, how can you develop this she said.“So, what’s really important when we’re trying
us meet their needs better, skill to communicate to understand and infer the underlying feelings or the
but it would also make our with cats? intentions of cats is that we think about the context that
we’re observing them in and we also think about what the
whole of their body is doing.”

Dkindoywo?u Cats give subtle WHAT DOES A “When they approach, we’d
clues about how CONTENTED CAT expect to see their tail held
There are lots of LOOK LIKE? vertically in the air, sometimes
resources out there they’re feeling with a little kink in the end,
that can help you in their body “We would expect them to like a question mark,” said
learn about feline have a relaxed body posture, Lauren.“We know that the tail
language, their with no obvious stiffness or held in that position in cats is
body language. facial expressions, limbs pressed tightly against associated with positive intent.
the body,” said Lauren.
and behaviour. “We’d expect their ears to “Rubbing is also a good
be pointed forward and a sign. Cats that are rubbing
relaxed face with no obvious against us, are generally
tension, and if cats are calm giving a sign that they feel
and relaxed, we’d expect comfortable around us
their eyes to be almond and that they likely want to
shaped rather than really big interact.”
and wide and round, and
we might expect the pupils HOW DO I KNOW
to be not hugely dilated.” IF MY CAT IS NOT
ENJOYING WHAT I’M
HOW DO I KNOW IF DOING?
MY CAT WANTS MY
COMPANY? Apart from the obvious cat
behaviours that may involve
One of the most obvious claws and teeth, there are
and easy ways to know is many more subtle clues that
that your cat comes towards it’s good to look out for.“A
you when called, but there very useful sign is actually just
are other signs you can look the absence of any positive
out for. indicators,” said Lauren.“That
in itself can be a negative,
Women were more so if you’re handling a cat
likely to be ‘cat or interacting with them and
they’re not showing any of
whisperers’ than men. these nice, positive signs
(e.g. looking relaxed, purring,
rubbing against you, kneading
their front paws), then that’s
probably suggesting that
they’re really tolerating it at
best, rather than actively
enjoying what’s happening.
Additionally, look out for a

14 Your Cat April 2021

Rubbing is
also a good

sign...

swishing or twitching tail, the Offering a hand of your cat, especially making “There are nice ways to
fur on their back rippling and allowing cats a point of doing so when you show that you’re receptive
when touched, head shaking, to make the first know they are healthy, such to cats, and that you’re not
nose or lip licking, rotation or move can help as soon after a routine going to impose upon them
flattening of the ears, as well cats feel at ease. check-up at the vet’s when too much,” says Lauren.“These
as the cat looking or moving they have been given a would include ultimately
away from you.” go about business as usual, clean bill of health. It gives letting them make the first
making it very difficult to spot you something to compare move, but also crouching
HOW DO I KNOW IF certain underlying health against later. down to their level and gently
MY CAT IS FEELING problems.” offering your fingers for them
UNWELL? WHAT POSITIVE to sniff, letting them decide
Another sign to look out for SIGNALS CAN I GIVE whether they would like to
Cats’ behaviour when sick is a change in temperament, TO MY CAT? interact (if they rub against
or in pain can sometimes be such as an aversion to being you, this is usually a good
difficult to read. Lauren says: touched and picked up, Communication goes sign).That’s a polite thing
“Even if they are in a lot of when previously they were OK both ways, so as well as that certainly goes down well
pain, for example with a very with it, or sudden aggressive understanding them, try and many cats will take those
bad dental disease, they behaviour in a usually friendly to make sure your own cues nicely.”
might still continue to eat cat. behaviour is giving out the
because their survival instinct right message too. Lauren also recommends
is very strong. So, if your cat Sometimes illness can not staring directly at their
does stop eating that’s a big come on gradually, making faces too much as this
cause for concern, although it difficult to notice subtle can be associated with
many cats that are in pain or changes in behaviour that threat signals and can
unwell might also seemingly are caused by sickness. make some cats feel rather
Lauren recommends taking uncomfortable.
regular pictures and videos

Those with a veterinary IS YOUR PET IN PAIN?
background showed a skill for
recognising feline emotions. There are a number of methods
used by vets around the world to
help them assess whether cats are
in pain by looking at a variety of
indicators.They include the Feline
Grimace Scale, developed at the

University of Montreal.
To find out more, visit
www.felinegrimacescale.com

www.yourcat.co.uk 15

Nature’s chancers!

Confessions of a

Cat-sitter

When he’s asked to feed a cat for a new client,
Chris suspects that something doesn’t quite add up.

You might think given that nobody has knees), I do know cats. I know all their loveable, Chris Pascoe is a cat-sitter
been allowed to leave their homes selfish ways, their adorably stubborn natures, and author. He has written
recently, that it’d be quite difficult their gorgeous ignorance of all instructions as five books, including ‘A
finding cat-sitting work, particularly as a point of principle, and all the other horrible cat called Birmingham’
my website clearly states:“Feeding your cat things they do that makes us love them all and ‘You can take the cat
while you’re away.” However, there’s a habit the more. I also know that cats are the animal out of Slough’, which are
here on the Isle of Wight of not living in your kingdom’s biggest chancers, and I know full available to buy
own house. OK, I’d better explain that. well how a stray generally looks and behaves, from Amazon.
given my habit of adopting them.The more
Many people own second homes here and I looked at wildcat Toby, the more I realised… Three weeks
as the Government clearly ordered, they’re he probably wasn’t a stray. into my
to stay away from them and live in their first
homes, mainly in dangerously crowded cities. Three weeks into my feeding job, I decided feeding job,
Added to that, here’s a second interesting to follow Toby into the trees. As all you cat I decided to
paradox, I’m currently being asked to visit the people will know, cats love being followed.Toby follow Toby
house of people who don’t live there, to feed a was livid, stopping every few yards to glare
cat that doesn’t live there either. It’s a weird old back at me as if to say ‘Get back you swine, into the
world, isn’t it? go away!’ However, I carried on following, trees.
slowly at distance so as not to appear to be
Wildcat Toby is a stray.The owners of a chasing, and sure enough, after a few minutes,
second home on the island have been the trees gave way to somebody’s back
feeding him for years, even though Toby garden and Toby was greeted at his own back
point-blank refuses to step inside their door. door.There are many moments in my life I’ve
Whenever they’re in residence,Toby appears totally embarrassed myself and this turned out
from local woodland and waits patiently to be one of them.
on their patio until fed.Then he’s gone.The
non-residents have been worried about Toby “Can I help you?” shouted not-so-wildcat
not getting his meals so employed me to visit Toby’s owner upon noticing a strange man
daily. Sure enough, every single time I switch standing at her garden fence.
the kitchen light on, this long-haired tabby lad
comes hammering out of the trees, eats his “No, no,” I laughed.“It’s fine, I was just
meal at breakneck speed, and then legs it following your cat...”
back through the undergrowth.
I really thought I’d get the chance to say
Now, although throughout my somewhat more than that. But the door slammed and I
disastrous working life I’ve managed to realised I’d just managed to make myself look
completely foul up most jobs I’ve had (as an like a complete lunatic — again.
electrician’s apprentice, for instance, I was fired
due to all the explosions and my carpet-fitting So, do I let my clients know what Toby’s up to,
boss stated he’d never known anybody so or allow him to carry on embezzling all those
regularly miss the carpet and slash their own extra meals? Oh dear me, the tough decisions
we have to take in the high-powered world of
cat sitting!

16 Your Cat April 2021

Over 40 prizes to be won! For your chance to win

Freebies prizes, enter online by visiting
www.yourcat.co.uk/

giveaways using the code

IBG76IBG. Please note, you

can enter online

from March 16.

CLICK
TO ENTER

CAT TOWERS CAT BEDS

We’ve teamed up with TRIXIE We’ve teamed up with Scruffs to give seven lucky readers

to give two lucky readers each each a Velvet Donut Bed.This bed is a stylish addition to

a BE NORDIC Juna Cat Tower. any modern living space. Designed for small dogs and

Scratching, hiding, cuddling, cats, the bed will ensure your pet is kept as

climbing, and enjoying the view, snug as possible with its

the BE NORDIC Juna Cat Tower one-piece

offers all this and much more.The design and

cat tower has a maritime design wrapped-around

and TRIXIE supports maritime crushed velvet

protection projects from the finish. Each

sales of the BE NORDIC series to bed features a

contribute to sustainable nature fixed deep-filled

conservation. For more information centre cushion for

or to find your nearest TRIXIE enhanced support

stockist, see the details below. and high-walls for

www.trixie.de 2 TO WIN! added security and
comfort.
020 7154 2940 7 TO WIN!

www.petslovescruffs.com

SELF-CLEANING LITTER BOXES

We have teamed up with PetSafe to give two lucky readers each

a ScoopFree™ Original Self-Cleaning Litter Box, as seen on ITV’s CROSS-STITCH KITS

'This Morning!' It’s the only self-cleaning litter box that uses We’ve teamed up with
Heritage Crafts to give
disposable litter trays to provide hands-off 15 lucky readers each a
cross-stitch kit.
convenience and a clean, fresh smell. ‘Small Packages’ is one
of the 0many lovely
The box can be left alone for weeks at counted cross stitch
designs in The Peter
a time, simply plug it in.The automatic Underhill Collection.This
kit contains Zweigart
rake system will sweep your cat’s fabric, DMC stranded
cottons sorted on to
waste into the covered compartment numbered cards, a
needle, and clear
and the specially-designed crystal litter charts and instructions.
Heritage Crafts is a world
is five times more effective at reducing leader in counted cross
stitch design, with kits
odour than clay or clumping ideal for everyone.
www.hcrafts.com
2 TO WIN! litters. 01889 575256
www.petsafe.com/UK
15 TO WIN!
17 TO WIN!The new FLEXUS 10 Feline Premium Cat Joint

Supplement is a synergy of no less than 10 key
nutrients to help ensure long-term mobility for
your cat.The supplement contains ingredients
at the correct researched levels, with no fillers or
bulkers. Prices start from just 6p per day based
on purchasing a 102g tub of powder. We have
17 tubs of the joint supplement to give away.
aviform.co.uk
01953 528 008

Enter online at www.yourcat.co.uk/giveaways

UK only. For full competition terms and conditions, visit www.warnersgroup.co.uk/competition-terms

www.yourcat.co.uk 17

REAL LIFE

Love is blind
Carrots, the UK’s Meet Carrots, the a member of staff at the Marie condition and developed an
only blind Pets as first and only Curie Hospice in Bradford infection requiring antibiotics.
Therapy cat, won registered blind who, like many others, could When he was 10 weeks old,
the Blue Cross Pets as Therapy see the positive impact it ruptured, resulting in his
Medal for helping cat in the UK and the Blue Carrots had on the patients eye having to be removed.
those who need Cross Medal winner of 2020 in the hospice, as well as With Katie having experience
it most. — the 80th year of the charity staff and visitors. Out of 143 dealing with Braille, another
awarding this prestigious nominations, Carrots won! blind cat, she was able to
medal. teach Carrots from an early
TOUGH START age to thrive without his sight.
Carrots was nominated by Carrots was best stimulated
This remarkable cat had a with toys that were noisy, like
Sonja K Steiner wrote for very difficult start to life when scrunchy balls or rattle toys
Cat World magazine for over he was found aged three (he still uses these now).
eight years. She’s worked weeks old, alone, wedged in
in veterinary practice and a garden hedge, barely alive. In autumn of 2016,
previously volunteered at But he landed on his paws Katie was going through
her local rescue. Her cat, when he was taken in by Katie a particularly difficult
Fifi, became the Brand Lloyd, care coordinator at time health wise and that
Ambassador for Natures Bradford Cat Watch Rescue November, her beloved
Menu Cat food. (BCWR) back in October 2016. therapy cat Topple was put to
sleep having been diagnosed
When Carrots was found, his with an aggressive form of
right eye was believed to have cancer. Carrots’s personality
been lost through trauma or started to come through at
having never formed at birth. around four months old and
His left eye was in a poor

Katie and Carrots. After losing his sight,
Carrots was given lots of

sensory experiences.

18 Your Cat April 2021 ● Sincere thanks to Katie Lloyd for her help in compiling this article.

Carrots as a kitten Marie Curie hospice on the inside and out and AWARD
before his eyes patients three times his ability to raise a smile WINNER
were removed. a week. Often, and provide comfort during
patients who were difficult times cannot be Carrots has provided the
Katie could tell that he had admitted into underestimated. patients in the hospice with
similar attributes to Topple the hospice were such comfort. Katie says that he
to become a therapy cat. distressed at being Seeing the joy that knows who needs a reassuring
Like Topple, Carrots had away from their Carrots brought to cuddle and snuggle, and who
that unique ability to sense beloved cats and patients was so immensely simply wants to stroke him as
when Katie was not well and longed for the cuddles rewarding. Sometimes on he lies contentedly purring
provided comfort to her when they desperately missed. the darkest of days, Carrots away on their lap. Carrots offers
she needed it, and being the Then there was the brings a little bit of light and compassion at the time when it
utterly selfless person that added worry about what love into many lives at a is needed the most.
she is, Katie wanted to share would happen to their feline time when they need it the
Carrots’s special gift with friends when they were no most. Carrots spends time Carrots usually visits the
others. longer around. It was then in both day therapy and on hospice with either Katie or
that Katie came up with the the ward offering familiar one of the volunteers from
Carrots began visiting Meowie Curie scheme that comfort, a distraction, BCWR (who also has to be
elderly care home residents guaranteed that any patients a smile to patients, staff, registered with Marie Curie)
and Katie could see the joy who were in the hospice and visitors, and lends a but on occasions Katie has
that he brought them, so she who wished for their cats to therapeutic paw to anyone been contacted by them
decided to explore further be taken in by BCWR and and everyone who meets when a patient has requested
to help more people and be rehomed would be when him. a personal visit from Carrots.
look into Carrots becoming the time came.This brought Perhaps that patient knows the
a Pets as Therapy cat. immense relief to them Katie end is near and to have Carrots’s
This involved undergoing knowing that their cats would wanted calming paw and peaceful purr
numerous assessments to be safe and looked after. to share is something they take great
gauge his suitability, as well Carrots’s comfort in; he can provide a
as several health checks PATIENT VISITS special gift form of therapy that no-one else
with an independent vet. can.
Then Katie registered as a Even though their own cats
volunteer with the Marie could not visit them, Carrots Completely unexpectedly,
Curie Hospice in Bradford could. He could give a cuddle Katie found out that Carrots had
and underwent training and that only a cat can. Even earned a prestigious honour
a CRB check, and only when patients who were not used for all his work. Katie said:“I
this was completed could she to cats, who were sometimes received a phone call out of the
take Carrots in to meet the a little wary at first, found blue to say that Carrots had won
patients. comfort and calmness when the Blue Cross Medal award.
Carrots placed his paw in I was delighted but very
In May 2018, Carrots and their hand. surprised as I didn’t even know
Katie began visiting the he had been nominated!”
We often hear people
say a person they know Katie is a very modest person
lights up a room and this is so Carrots winning is a very
exactly how you would humbling experience for her,
describe Carrots. He though she is incredibly proud of
is a beautiful soul what he has achieved.

Did you Image: Blue Cross. Katie and Carrots feel very
know? honoured and in a privileged
position to be Pets as Therapy
You can find out more volunteers at the hospice.
about the Blue Cross Unfortunately, due to Covid-19
restrictions, those comforting
Medal by visiting visits had to stop. However,
bluecross.org.uk Carrots has found a way to keep
in touch and with Katie’s help is
writing to the patients and staff
at the hospice, as well as some
of his friends and supporters at a
local care home, and each letter
is signed with his ‘pawtograph’.

Despite everything he has
been through, his love is
unending. If you can learn to see
with your heart, it is a beautiful
world with no judgement, just
love. Carrots is without sight but
with great vision, he sees all with
his heart. Love truly is blind.

With the Blue Cross Medal. www.yourcat.co.uk 19

The face at
the window.

Catxx

chat
BREAKFAST WITH We want to hear all about your fabulous felines!
Email [email protected]
BLACKADDER
or write to us (see page 5 for our address).
The day we viewed our
new bungalow, the little There for
black cat who lived next door each other
jumped into our car and we
instantly made friends. His Iwanted to write in to tell you about Simba, the grand age of 18, before he passed away.
name was Blackie but we as I saw some lovely stories in the Cat Chat However, reflecting upon our time together,
called him Blackadder and section of your January issue. I want to tell it really highlighted how much we relied on
then Adderkins. everyone a brief story of Simba and the joys of each other, especially towards his later years.
caring for an elderly cat, one that I think many He was there for me through all the stresses
After we had moved in, owners can relate to. of my education, as I was there for him ready
Adderkins visited us every and waiting if he ever needed cuddles and
morning, announcing himself Simba was introduced into our family home attention. I loved Simba dearly and miss him
through the frosty glass of when I was four years old; he was eight weeks an awful lot but it really shows to me how
the front door window. He old at the time. Because of my young age much of an impact our animals can have on
then joined us for breakfast, and the fact that he was ginger, we naturally our lives — I would not have changed even a
as in the picture, and is decided to name him Simba, inspired by a second of our time together.
apparently asking the particular film I liked at the time. Amy Field
question: ‘Where’s mine?’
I am now 22 years old and Simba reached
The end came peacefully
for dear Adderkins when, at
the age of 21, he lay down
and passed away in the hall
of our bungalow. He is now
at rest in his own garden
next door.
Alan Vickerman

Simba was
much loved.

20 Your Cat April 2021

James on his
scratch post.

NICE
SURPRISE

Miss Muffett. We were surprised when we got
a knock at the door late one
Thursday night.

RAISING AWARENESS OF FIP I had received two emails from
XDP but I thought they had the

wrong email address so had put it

Ihave been a cat lover throughout my long later, I was told that she had an enlarged out of my thoughts.
life. I feel that my home isn’t complete spleen and fluid in her abdomen, and that Then, there it was, this huge box

without at least one feline member. she was too ill to save as she had feline being dragged into the kitchen by

Since my return to the UK over 15 years infectious peritonitis (FIP). my husband.“Wow, what have you

ago, I have had five cats from my excellent Sadly, I had terminated the insurance so bought now?” he asked. He was

local rescue centre, but sadly only one none of the costs could be recouped worried as I have got the hang of

survives now, 15-year-old Minimus. — £2,000 to date. I am a disabled shopping online since lockdown!

In 2018, I learned of some rescued pensioner and have struggled with being It must be the thing in the emails

kittens, and picked two little girls who came alone through the pandemic, as none of from XDP, I thought, still confused

to me at about nine weeks old: Daisy-Mae my family have been able to visit me, so when we started to open the box.

and Miss Muffett.They were gorgeous and my beautiful cats are very important to my Then all was clear.The letter

soon settled into our routine, with myself well-being. inside with this huge scratch

and Minimus. Following the kittens’ spaying I think that more people should be post said we had won an advent

surgery, Daisy suffered an aortic embolism aware of FIP and how it presents, as well calendar prize.

which paralysed her, leading to her death. as the awful prognosis. I gather from my Thank you so much, it really

We soldiered on for a year until Covid research that breeding establishments can cheered us up on a dark January

struck. During lockdown, Muffy started to be susceptible, so beware of the origin of night and thanks to the Kalven

have digestive problems with vomiting any kittens you might be considering. team — the scratch post is

and loss of appetite. Many vet visits, blood I just hope that more information will be fantastic. James loves it, as you can

tests, ultrasound scans, and different made available to owners, as well as vets. see in the picture.

suggested causes followed, but apart from Judy Chorley Ann Fish

some anaemia, she gradually

improved. THE CALENDAR KITTY!
Then in October, she came

in one morning with a swelling In October 2020, Morgan — a very special rescue cat with a
on her face that the vet said lot of allergies and a wardrobe to rival the top celebrities

was probably a cat fight — took on a huge charity challenge! He has had to wear

wound. From then on, she had little jumpers to protect his skin from a young age and

small wounds which wouldn’t because of this, he has attracted quite a following through

heal as she kept scratching. social media.

I fitted an Elizabethan collar He had some charity calendars designed of him

which allowed healing, modelling his special wardrobe and they were put online,

so I then arranged for her expecting to sell about 40, maybe 50, if he was lucky!

annual vaccination booster You can imagine our excitement when he ended the

in December. At this visit, I was sale at a huge 185 calendars! In total, he managed to

told that she was very ill and raise a massive £880! The calendars have been sent all

severely anaemic once more, over the world, including Europe, Asia, USA, Australia, and

and to return the next day for New Zealand! All of the profits were split equally between

further investigations. At this visit, Hallswood Animal Sanctuary (Norwich) and Hollyhedge

an ultrasound was requested Animal Sanctuary (Bristol). Not a bad effort from a little

and when the vet called me rescue cat with an impressive wardrobe! Morgan has

Rhia Watson raised vital funds

for charity. ▼

www.yourcat.co.uk 21

chCaatt

A poem for Minty

Lizzie and her Ihave been writing a poem MINTY
pet portrait. a day during lockdown. I love my new home
During the pandemic, Different places I can roam
PORTRAIT my lovely cat Mia died Sometimes mummy can’t find me
suddenly. She was 16 And she gets upset
PRIZE and I was distraught.The And yesterday she took Skye Blue to the
emptiness was too much, vet
Ijust had to share this with so I decided to get a And I was so happy when he came back
you. I support a wildlife kitten, but there weren’t And sat on mummy’s lap
centre but it’s mainly for cats. any available during the
I have a direct debit where I pandemic. I also have two I like to wake up at 4am
help them on a weekly basis other rescue cats. And this is the time when
for food and vet bills. At new I give mummy a little purr
year, I won a competition I registered online to And she has to tickle under my chin of
through the charity for a cat rescue centres and one the black fur
portrait and chose my lovely other side of London called
Lizzie for this. Here’s a picture me. I went all the way I still like to run around at night
of Lizzie and the portrait. A there and picked up my And sleep all day when it’s light
lady called Tina Dobravec rescue kitten, Minty — she But when mummy is home all day
from Slovenia donated a pet is the naughtiest kitten I’ve I like to run around her feet and play
portrait to the winner! I would ever had.Very mistrustful
love to help WLF Rescue and at first and a live wire, she And so, from the bottom of my heart
Sanctuary more if I could managed to get out twice I thank everyone who has rescued me
and a mention in your fab and I had two sleepless To give me a lovely new start.
magazine will do wonders, nights. She even found Love Minty.
I am sure. cupboards to hide in where
Lesley Calder I couldn’t find her.

To find out more She has just been
about WLF Rescue neutered and has chewed
and Sanctuary, visit their through her snug little
Facebook page: cover and at the moment
www.facebook.com is asleep on the chair so I
am sitting on the edge of it,
/wlfrescue but I love her so much.

Here is the cat poem
I wrote about Minty.
Barbara Lee

SIMBA’S NEW HOME Simba.

When I lost my tuxedo boy to heart disease aged
only five, I was devastated. I still had a lot of love to
give to another cat so my husband adopted Simba from
the SSPCA.

He is aged between 12 and 14, overweight, had early
spondylosis and required several tooth extractions due
to gum disease. He had previously been rehomed but
didn’t get on with his new owners’ other cat. He also
has the loudest purr which he uses constantly and
gives the best ever head butts. He thinks other Your Cat
readers should see how handsome he is and would
love to have his photo in his mum’s favourite magazine.
Maureen McGeeney

22 Your Cat April 2021

Cat Insurance EXTRA
w h up 30% off*!
5%off X

pEMrnoItAmeOrosWpcoe9dc9iea:l

Visit theinsuranceemporium.co.uk/YC99 or call
03300 243 997 today to claim your extra discount!

Entertainment & Leisure Insurance Services, Entertainment & Leisure Insurance Services Limited and Lifestyle Policy Limited are appointed representatives of The Equine and Livestock
Insurance Company Limited. The Insurance Emporium ® is a trading name of The Equine and Livestock Insurance Company Limited (registered in England and Wales no. 294940) which is
authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority no. 202748. The 30% discount is made up of

* ,QWURGXFWRU\ 'LVFRXQW SOXV 0XOWL SHW 'LVFRXQW LI DSSURSULDWH 7KH ,QWURGXFWRU\ 'LVFRXQW LV DYDLODEOH IRU WKH ɺ UVW SUHPLXP SD\PHQWV RQ OXQDU DQG FDOHQGDU PRQWKO\ SROLFLHV RU RQH
premium payment on annual policies. X2ɹ HU HQGV DQG LV RQO\ UHGHHPDEOH RQ PRQWKO\ SROLFLHV DQG QRW ZKHUH SUHPLXPV DUH SDLG DQQXDOO\
Our Defaqto 5 Star Rating applies to Lifetime Gold Pet Insurance policies.

Rainbow Tags

High quality metal engraved tags.

Each tag can take up to four lines and comes complete

with the ring attachment.

Princess Heart Small Red Circle Small
£7.99 £6.99

Subscriber price Subscriber price
£6.99 £5.99

Silver Heart Small Spoilt Rotten Heart Small
£6.99 £7.99

Subscriber price Subscriber price
£5.99 £6.99

E: [email protected]

www.yourcat.co.uk/rainbow

ECO-FRIENDLY CAT OWNERSHIP PART 2

10 WAYS TO BE AN

ECO-FRIENDLY
CAT OWNER
If you’re keen to take a more sustainable approach
to caring for your cat, here are 10 simple ways to Ceri Roberts lives with her
reduce their ecological paw print. British Shorthair called Mavis.
She’s written for a range of
Growing awareness about the importance of living sustainably means that many of magazines and newspapers,
us have actively taken steps to reduce our carbon footprint. Perhaps you already but spends most of her day
make an effort to reduce, reuse, and recycle, shop locally, or eat seasonally. But, handing out cat treats.
when it comes to being an eco-friendly cat owner, it can be hard to know where
to start.The good news is that just a few small changes can
make a big difference — and really help to reduce your cat’s
ecological paw print (EPP). We’ve put together 10 top tips to
help you become a more eco-friendly cat owner.

Adopting a cat from a 1ADOPT Top tip!
rescue centre can help the A CAT
Why not write a
cat overpopulation crisis. list of the products
you buy for your
“Adopting a cat rather than cat and see how
many you can
buying helps to reduce the upgrade to more
eco-friendly items.
amount of cats looking for a home
2 THINK ABOUT
in rescue centres,” says Alice THE BENEFITS
OF NEUTERING
Potter, the RSPCA’s cat welfare
It’s wise to get your
expert.“The UK is currently facing cat neutered from four
months old so that you
a cat overpopulation crisis and, can avoid unplanned
litters. Sarah Elliott, Cats
as a charity, we often see the dark Protection’s central
veterinary officer, says:
side of this, from unwanted litters “Neutering cats is
important as it helps to
of kittens being abandoned by the control overpopulation
and neutered cats tend
roadside to elderly cats waiting to stay closer to home.”

in RSPCA care because there are As female cats with
kittens are more likely to
no homes ready to adopt them. hunt and disturb wildlife,
this is a particularly
Rescuing a cat can help to tackle important way to reduce
your cat’s EPP.
this problem.”

Don’t be put off adoption if

you have your heart set on a

cute kitten or favour a particular

breed. Rescue centres

Did you across the country
know? have both adult cats
and kittens that are
looking for homes,

There are around and some
11million pet cats in pedigree rescue
the UK, as well as feral and rehoming
centres specialise
and stray cats.

in particular

breeds.

24 Your Cat April 2021

Eco-friendly products are
becoming more popular.

3CHOOSE
BIODEGRADABLE LITTER

Clay-based litter is bad news for the environment. Not only does it have to
be mined, which leads to deforestation and loss of wildlife habitats, it’s not
biodegradable or compostable, so once it makes its way to landfill, it won’t
decompose.

Natural alternatives, which are made from wood or plant-based materials,
are a kinder option — and they can be safely composted or, in some
cases, even flushed down the loo. Paul Trott, UK marketing manager
at Catit, says that they have recently launched two types of Catit Go
Natural! Litter: one is made from sustainably-sourced wood offcuts and
the other from pea husk fibres. Both of these are clumping litters, which
is another important way to reduce waste. Removing clumped
waste daily means that the remaining litter remains clean
and fresh for longer.

4BUY IN BULK 6AVOID PLASTIC 7MAKE YOUR ▼
Almost all products When shopping for cat OWN CAT BED
that you buy for your cat accessories, avoid plastic
will require some form of whenever you can. Ceramic All cats seem to love sleeping on your favourite clothes, so
shipping or transportation, or metal bowls are a good why not make them a bed out of an old jumper?
even if you’re able to buy alternative to plastic dishes,
them locally. Buying in and food that comes in cans “We know that cats love to sleep a lot but that doesn’t
bulk is a simple way to or foil trays is easier to recycle. mean that we have to buy a new, brightly-coloured bed,”
reduce emissions, minimise You could use empty toilet roll says Dr Sarah Ellis, head of cat advocacy at International
packaging, and save money tubes to make a puzzle feeder Cat Care.“The fabric and dyeing industry uses a lot of
in the process. Most types of to keep your cat stimulated. water and creates a great deal of pollution.”
food and litter will last for a For more information on how
long while if stored correctly to make a puzzle feeder Sarah explains: “Cats love a doughnut-shaped bed
and you’ll never have to worry ● visit: https://icatcare.org/ as this makes them feel secure, and you can make one
about running out of supplies. top-tip-make-a-puzzle-feeder/ by taking an old jumper and sewing the ends of the two
sleeves together to make a tube. Sew up the bottom part
Get your supplies in bulk. It’s also a good idea to use of the jumper, which usually sits around your waist, then
biodegradable bin bags and stuff the whole thing, including the arms, with old clothes or
5PROTECT LOCAL pet waste bags, instead of pillow stuffing, to create a doughnut shape. Finally, stitch up
WILDLIFE carrier bags or black bags, the neckline to hold all the stuffing inside. If your cat prefers
when emptying cat litter trays. a bed with a roof, simply stretch an old t-shirt over an
Sarah Elliott says:“Not all It’s easy to overlook this, but empty cardboard box. Leave one side of the box open and
pet cats hunt, but there are even biodegradable cat use the neckline of the top to create a porthole window
a few steps you can take to litter won’t degrade when it’s which they can use to climb in and out.”
reduce hunting. Aim to keep wrapped in plastic.
cats indoors during the early Let your cat
morning and evening when Did you reuse those
prey is most active, fit your cat know? cardboard boxes!
with a quick-release collar with
a bell attached, and provide It is estimated that www.yourcat.co.uk 25
opportunities for your cat to cats kill around
exhibit hunting behaviour.To 200million wild
avoid stress and frustration,
encourage them to play with animals each year in
fishing rod toys, as this may the UK.
reduce their motivation to seek
out prey.”

8MAKE YOUR Making a few changes
OWN CAT TOYS to how you care for

Give plastic cat toys a swerve and recycle your cat can really help
household items to create brilliant toys for the environment.
your feline friend. Old cardboard boxes and
toilet roll tubes can be turned into castles Consider how you
and puzzle feeders. If you fancy getting crafty, can reduce your cat’s
there’s loads of inspiration online for simple impact on local wildlife.
toys you can make — your cat will love them
and you’ll be helping the planet.

Eco-friendly brand Catit have some helpful
and easy-to-follow tutorials of DIY cat toys
you can make on their website, including
ones you can stuff with catnip.
● Visit www.catit.com/uk/make-a-happy-
fish-plushie to see how to make a cool cat
fish toy.

9 REUSE OR RECYCLE Don’t forget, it’s easy to make your
Before you splash out on new own activity centre from cardboard
equipment for your cat, particularly boxes — and we all know how
expensive cat trees or carriers, much cats love boxes! Dr Sarah Ellis
check out local listings to see what’s says:“Everyone’s wheelie bins have
available second hand.There’s every been full up with cardboard boxes,
chance that you’ll be able to pick up especially during lockdown.You can
activity centres or scratching posts at join these together to make hiding
a bargain price. Alternatively, you may places, space tunnels to explore, and
be able to share some accessories, tee-pees. It’s the best, and cheapest,
like cat carriers, with a friend or entertainment for cats.”
neighbour — and you could even ● Find out more about how to make
organise regular toy swaps to add a cardboard cat castle at
variety to your cat’s playtime. icatcare.org/54723-2/

10OPT FOR
SUSTAINABLE FOOD

The trend for premium pet food means that many brands now use

choice cuts of meat or fish in their recipes. In the past, pet food

manufacturers relied on the off-cuts or offal which were a by-product of

the meat industry, but the focus on premium, often organic, ingredients

means that we’re farming additional cows, sheep, pigs, poultry, and fish

to feed our pets. Using insect protein is a new way of producing
a more sustainable food as consumers are
Some sustainable cat food brands are now beginning to use these increasingly keen to be more green.

offcuts or by-products as a way to reduce waste, while others are

looking at alternative sources of protein. Hagen is soon to launch a

new eco-friendly cat food, called Catit Nuna, made from insect protein,

which is designed to reduce the ecological impact of farming.There’s

also a range of treats, which are a great way

for fussy eaters to try it out.“There are three Fact!
varieties: one is made from insect protein

and chicken, another is made from insect Just one 5kg bag
protein and fish, and the third is made of Catit Nuna can

purely from insect protein,” explains Paul save 98kg of carbon
Trott.“The insects are safe, clean, easy, and dioxide — the
sustainable to farm and as cats already
catch and eat insects as part of their equivalent in emissions
natural diet, it’s an excellent, eco-friendly of driving from London

to Dundee!

alternative to established protein sources.”

MORE INFO: For more information on Catit’s new
sustainable product ranges visit catit.co.uk
26 Your Cat April 2021

COMPETITION ✶ WIN ✶ WIN ✶ WIN ✶

£500 -WORTH

of eco-friendly goodies from Catit!

Catit has always had their feline friends
at the forefront of their minds — now,
they are thinking of ways to help save
the planet as well with their innovative
products and packaging.

SUSTAINABLE FOOD PACKAGING FOR CATS To win!

The latest launch of cat We all know that packaging is a major concern for One lucky winner will
foods includes Catit Nuna people, but Catit also know that cats love a good receive £500-worth
insect protein dry cat food box, so they have come up with the purrfect solution! of Catit products.
which not only contains a Their shipping boxes will soon feature a fun design
sustainable protein source including cut-out windows so they can be reused How to enter...
but is also gluten-free and by cats to play and hide in to their heart’s content,
packed with nutrients, providing another use for something that would Visit www.yourcat.co.uk/
providing a tasty nutritional otherwise have gone straight in the bin. giveaways using the code
diet. Cat Dinner and Divine IBG76IBG.You can enter
Shreds wet food ranges are Another eco-friendly product in their range is their online from March 16 and
all made with fresh, natural new Go Natural! Clumping cat litter.The wood litter the competition closes
ingredients, high in protein is 100% biodegradable and compostable, and the April 14, 2021.
with no artificial flavours so paper bag is fully recyclable too! The Catit Nuna
you know exactly what your food bags are made from recyclable low-density
cat is eating. polyethylene, unlike most pet food bags which
cannot be recycled.

www.yourcat.co.uk 27

HERO CATS

Hero Humbug!

Gill and
Humbug.

xLx ifesavers Kathryn Hearn is
a journalist for ‘The
We meet two heroic cats who saved their owners’ Guardian’ whose career
lives when they alerted them to a serious disease. has included working at
Newsround, as an RSPCA
press officer, and a pet
agony aunt. She grew up
with cats and shares her
home with Maine Coon,
Kylo, and rescue cats,
Tabby and Rey.

Each of our cats are amazing in their own way, but these two that all was not right.
hero pets are in a category of their own. Humbug and Buddy “One day, back in 2017, when I
both saved their owners’ lives by raising the alarm when they
developed a serious health condition. was feeling ill all the time, I was lying
on the bed when suddenly Humbug
“She repeatedly tried jumped straight off the floor and
to sit on Gill’s stomach” landed on my belly — something
she’d never, ever done before, or
Jet-black Humbug is a tiny purr — and if I would still be alive.” since.The pain was excruciating,
machine with huge green eyes Gill had been feeling bloated, had I had never felt pain like it before.
— and she’s a lifesaver.
to rush to the loo, was overly tired, “I screamed out and my husband,
The petite puss alerted her owner, and had stomach pains, but she put John, came in to see what was
Gill Kelly, to the fact that there was these down to the menopause and happening. He felt my tummy and
something wrong in her stomach the swimming she was doing. said he could feel a lump.”
area and it turned out to be
life-threatening ovarian cancer. But Humbug started to act out of Gill went immediately to see her
character. She repeatedly tried to sit GP and after a rollercoaster raft of
“Humbug saved my life,” said Gill, on Gill’s stomach area and meowed tests, she was told she had ovarian
53, from Huddersfield.“She is an at her insistently when she was near cancer, with a scan revealing a mass
absolute hero and if it hadn’t been Gill’s tummy.Then one day, the cat that was 17cm long and weighed
for her, I don’t know where I would be did something that made Gill realise about 2kg.

The special needs teaching
assistant was stunned. Her mum,
Shirley Hirst, had been battling

28 Your Cat April 2021

Humbug stuck near my stomach, whereas before I was Signs of
to her like glue... diagnosed, she would always gravitate ovarian cancer
to that area. Humbug was constantly
ovarian cancer for a year and was with me wherever I was and would sleep Recognise the B.E.A.T.
having regular chemotherapy to keep it on the bottom of my bed. She was just signs of ovarian cancer
in abeyance. Gill thought she knew all there around me; it was very comforting.”
the symptoms of the cancer that is often Bis for bloating that
called the ‘silent killer’ because it’s so Tragically, just months after Gill’s doesn’t come and go
difficult to diagnose early. life-saving operation and chemotherapy
treatment, Shirley’s cancer progressed Eis for eating difficulty and
She said:“I’m adopted so it never and she passed away in March 2018, feeling full more quickly
crossed my mind that I would have aged 82, still smiling and inspirational. It
ovarian cancer too. But after my was a very dark time for Gill. She found Ais for abdominal and
diagnosis, I sat in the car outside support through the charity Ovacome pelvic pain you feel most days
the hospital and thought about how which helps those who have ovarian
amazing and inspirational my mum was cancer; meeting other survivors, taking Tis for toilet changes in
as she went through all her treatment, part in fundraising events, and giving urination or bowel habits
and I decided that I had to try my best talks to medical students.
to be like her too.” If you have any of these symptoms,
Gill had had to give up her job as it visit your doctor.
Major surgery followed and when was too much for her and so she started
Gill returned home, Humbug stuck to volunteering at her local Cats Protection head, that look like the sweet.
her like glue.“The funny thing was, that branch in Gildersome. Gill said:“She repaid me for rescuing
after my operation, she never went
“I count myself lucky,” said Gill.“Some her mum 100 times over. She’s such
of the women I have met through a lovely cat; very gentle and quite
fundraising with Ovacome have died, so timid but purrs non-stop for no reason.
I look at my world and see the positives. Wherever I am she wants to be and she
I have a brilliant family, I love loves nothing more than sleeping on my
volunteering at Cats Protection, and shoulder.
I get to see Humbug every day.”
“Some people won’t believe that she
Humbug — the kitten of a pregnant alerted me to cancer but I think she
cat that Gill had found trying to sleep knew something was wrong. I’m alive
in her snowy garden — got her name and happy now, and it’s all thanks to
because although she is all black, she Humbug — she really is my hero.”
has faint grey stripes on the top of her

A real-life cat scan he stopped after the radiation,” said Esther. She Buddy.
joked: “Who needs a medical cat scan when
Little did Esther Kacev know that a scruffy stray I had my own Buddy to do a real-life cat scan?”
she rescued off the streets would save her life.
Retiree Esther said she got Buddy’s name
For Buddy, a dark brown and ginger tabby, because as soon as she saw him, she knew they
started acting strangely around Esther, clawing were going to be friends.“But he was more than
and sniffing the area around her left breast and a friend. I saved him and he, in turn, saved me.”
underarm.
Sadly, Buddy died, aged about 16, from cancer.
“Buddy was a streetwise stray who had been Esther said she still gets teary when she thinks
abandoned,” said Esther, who lives in Perth, of him: “Buddy will always be my hero. He came
Australia.“Over the years, he gradually settled into my life for a reason. I loved him so much.”
in with me and my five cats and would let me
touch him — but then his behaviour became She hopes that by sharing her story she will
really odd with him going out of his way to claw encourage others to have regular breast
and sniff me, always in the same place.” check-ups. She said: “I feel lucky to be alive. I’m
loving life and living for every minute.”
Esther had just turned 50 and had been
invited to her first routine mammogram but Buddy saved
had cancelled it three times.“I was very fit and Esther’s’s life.
running half marathons so I thought there was
no way that I could have cancer — how wrong
I was.”

She had read that cats could detect cancer
so Buddy’s odd actions prompted her to book
an immediate mammogram which revealed she
had cancer in her left breast. Surgery quickly
followed and then a course of radiotherapy
treatment, and Esther takes daily medication to
keep any further cancer at bay.

“After surgery, Buddy still sniffed me a bit but

Cats are wonderful creatures...

Celebrity interview✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶

Andrew Cartmel

Alison Gallagher-Hughes chats to

The books have been the author of ‘The Vinyl Detective’
a popular series.
series of novels,
which sees fur fly Andrew’s cats
amidst the crime have inspired his
fictional felines.

and intrigue.

Aspiring authors are However, it didn’t happen Andrew.“You have to provide adopt a couple of kittens
advised to write immediately.“In my naivety, the whodunnit, the thrills, but I think that Jade may not
about what they I thought that a good way to suspense, mystery, and shocks, be too happy about it at her
know — and not support myself while writing but essentially it is important stage of life. She might be a
to include cats. Fortunately, novels would be to write TV to give readers a set of bit miffed if I brought two new
Andrew Cartmel, creator of scripts because, obviously, characters who they can see upstarts home.”
‘The Vinyl Detective’ series that would be lucrative and as friends.”
decided to embrace the easy,” he laughs. He found cat
former and dismiss the latter. Although the cats in his companionship a lifeline
After years of struggle, books are among these during the pandemic:“Jade
Indeed, his feline characters he acquired an agent and friends, Andrew admits that he has been really wonderful.
are not just a decorative became script editor for had dogs as a child growing Frequently during lockdown,
device but an anchor to the ‘Doctor Who’ during the up in Canada. But when, as I have thought how lucky I am
eponymous hero — a record era of the seventh doctor, an adult, he took on a cat, to have her. It’s not just having
collector turned detective. Sylvester McCoy. He worked there was no looking back. a cat. It’s that we know each
with “some fabulous writers” other so well and get along
Cats Fanny and Turk even in the three years that CAT LOVER happily.
become part of the story arc he ran the writing room,
in the second book, among them a fortuitous “Cats are wonderful “When she was young,
‘The Run-Out Groove.’ But find in Ben Aaronovitch who creatures,” he says and having she was a bit of a horror. She
it is perhaps the subtle cat subsequently went on to pen two is ideal, he believes: would disappear all night, get
characteristics that punctuate the hugely successful ‘Rivers “I figure that they keep each into fights, and then come
each of the stories that are so of London’ series of urban other company and two is back with scars. But as a
familiar to cat owners. fantasy novels. not much more hassle than mature lady, she likes to stick
having one. I would love to closer to home. She loves the
It’s not surprising, therefore, Andrew was able to make
to find out that Andrew, a writing his full-time career,
former ‘Doctor Who’ script supplemented by jobs for TV
editor, is a massive cat fan and editing magazines.The
and currently shares his move into writing books came
London home with 13-year-old as a result of his ‘Doctor Who’
tabby, Jade. connections; he was asked
to create three ‘Doctor Who’
A WRITER’S DREAM novels and wrote five in total.

Andrew always harboured Developing his own
a burning ambition to be a characters and the worlds
writer:“Ever since I knew there they inhabit was the next step,
were books and that people beginning in earnest with
wrote them, I wanted to be ‘The Vinyl Detective’, which he
one of those people,” he says. started writing in 2012.

“I know from my own
love of crime fiction that
what makes people love
it are the characters,” says

✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶

30 Your Cat April 2021

✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶ Andrew’s
children’s
Andrew is a successful book.
author and cat lover.

Molly and Jade.

● Scan the QR code to
see the trailer for ‘Kitten
on the Loose’.

garden and spends most of I swore that I was only KITTEN ON THE LOOSE a publisher soon.”
her time out the back and going to have one With his television
doesn’t stray too far, which but I couldn’t resist Andrew is currently working
from my point of view is a very them.” on the sixth ‘Vinyl Detective’ connections, it’s not hard to
good thing.” novel and there’s a possibility imagine ‘Kitten on the Loose’
Jade and Molly came that some of the books may being adapted for TV. In fact,
It was an unexpected and home with Andrew soon be dramatised on BBC animator Sarah has already
misdirected phone call that and it was his friendship with Radio 4. created a trailer which is
led to the arrival of Jade and fellow author Ben Aaronovitch accompanied by an original
her sister Molly. that led to them being the Andrew’s cat Jade has also score from Joe Kraemer, who
inspiration for the cats in ‘The provided the spark for him to wrote the ‘Mission: Impossible
“I had a cat called Dizzy Vinyl Detective’ novels. try another bold project. Rogue Nation’ soundtrack.
who unfortunately got run “Ben and I are always
over, and for a long time. I sending each other our “I’ve wanted to write a As with the Vinyl Detective’s
couldn’t face having another,” chapters to let the other be children’s book for years, but cats, Andrew’s inspiration is
explains Andrew.“I was just the first reader and editor,” you can only do it well if you always close to home.‘Kitten’
reaching the point where I he reveals.“During one have genuine inspiration,” has vivid green eyes, just like
had decided to get another conversation, I was discussing says Andrew.“A couple of Jade, and likewise Turk in his
kitten when one day, the the character and how he years ago, Jade was racing detective books.
phone rang. I picked it up shared certain characteristics around the house, you know
and this woman’s voice said, with me, but not others, and how cats have those mad Andrew adds:“There’s a
‘do you sell kittens?’ he asked,‘are you going to moments? And I called out by book called ‘How Not to Write
put the cats in?’ way of warning,‘kitten on the a Novel’ that includes
“I said no but that by “I said no, but he insisted, loose’.That kind of fanned the a series of ‘do nots’ for
coincidence I was looking to ‘you must put the cats in’. flame of inspiration.” would-be writers, such as
acquire one. She had rung an I followed his advice and I am ‘don’t include a dream
07 instead of an 08 London so pleased that I did because Andrew created ‘Kitten on sequence’ and definitely ‘do
code for an animal centre as people adore them. I feel that the Loose’ with Dr Seuss-style not give your character a cat.’
she had two kittens left from they add an extra dimension verse and has been working However, I think that in ‘The
a litter that she wanted to to the books; a sprinkling of with illustrator Sarah-Jane Vinyl Detective’ the cats bring
rehome. authenticity.You don’t want Docker to produce a working a certain gritty reality to the
too much of them but little draft which is with potential proceedings.They behave just
sequences which capture the publishers. like real cats,” he concludes.
things that every cat owner
recognises.” “I feel that these books It was a good call to ignore
could really warm the hearts this advice and Jade is likely
of millions of children,” he says. delighted and purring her
“I do hope that ‘Kitten on the seal of approval.
Loose’ will find a home with

✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶✶

www.yourcat.co.uk 31

THE SCIENCE OF CATS

Indoors or Top tip!
outdoors?
There’s lots of great
advice on indoor and

outdoor lifestyles at
www.yourcat.co.uk

Dr Lauren Finka is Lauren Finka and Rae
a behaviour and welfare Foreman-Worsley explore their study
scientist specialising in the that looked at how owners decide on
domestic cat. She has the type of lifestyle for their cats.
a PhD in cat behaviour
and currently works as Each month, leading cat welfare scientist Dr Lauren Finka
a researcher at Nottingham delves into the latest research into felines and breaks it
Trent University. Lauren down to explain what it means for everyday cat owners.
also works as a consultant This issue, she looks at a study that is trying to understand
for various animal more about the owner rationale associated with choosing either
welfare organisations. an indoor only or indoor-outdoor lifestyle for a cat.

Lauren is also pleased to be writing this article in
collaboration with PhD student Rae, who sits with her on
International Cat Care’s Feline Wellbeing expert panel and is the
main author of this study.

Indoors or out? It’s one
of the biggest decisions
of cat ownership.

32 Your Cat April 2021

xx

Who conducted

the study? When

was it published?

The study was carried out by Rae Foreman-Worsley
and Your Cat’s own Dr Lauren Finka in collaboration
with colleagues at Nottingham Trent University. It was
published ‘open access’ (meaning anyone can view the
paper for free) in the journal ‘Animals’ in January 2021.

Discussions around keeping

cats strictly inside or providing Many owners felt that
them with some form of outdoor their cats wanted to
access can often be a divisive go outdoors.

topic. Owners often have

strong but opposing views and

these views might differ based different regions of the world. WHAT WERE THE MAIN
FINDINGS OF THE STUDY?
on where a person lives and Rae conducted a large
A range of cat and owner characteristics were
their general lifestyle meaning international online survey in associated with greater odds of owners either having
an indoor-only or indoor-outdoor cat.
proportions of indoor only the spring of 2019.The survey
OWNERS WERE MORE LIKELY
versus indoor/outdoor cats vary was advertised in a previous TO HAVE AN INDOOR-ONLY CAT IF THEY:
● Were 26 — 35 years old compared to owners that
substantially across the globe. issue of Your Cat Magazine, were 36 — 45.
● Owned more than one cat.
In the middle of this is what’s so it may be that many of you ● Lived in city centres or urban areas compared to
the suburbs.
actually best from the cat’s reading this took part! (If so, ● Lived in a flat/apartment compared to a
semi-detached house.
perspective and how easily their thank you — we are extremely ● Lived in the United States, Canada, Australia, or
New Zealand, compared to the UK and Europe.
basic needs can be met.These grateful.) Participants responded
AS FOR THE CATS,THEY WERE MORE LIKELY
issues form the heart of to questions about TO HAVE AN INDOOR-ONLY LIFESTYLE IF THEY:
● Were younger (Seven months to 2 years old).
Rae’s research, which themselves and ● Had health issues.
their cat’s living ● Were a pedigree.
Did youshe starts to explore
in the first of know? environments. IN CONTRAST, OWNERS WERE MORE LIKELY
several exciting, A lot of this data TO HAVE AN INDOOR-OUTDOOR CAT IF THEY:
● Were 46 — 55+ years old, compared
upcoming It’s estimated that just will be analysed to owners that were 36 — 45.
● Had children (17 years old or under)
papers. over a quarter of the and included living at home.
cats in the UK live an in future papers,
WHAT WERE indoor only lifestyle. but for this study, AND CATS WERE MORE LIKELY TO
HAVE AN INDOOR-OUTDOOR LIFESTYLE IF THEY:
THE AIMS Rae used a subset ● Were male.
OF THE STUDY of this data alongside ● Were mature or senior (seven years old and
above).
AND WHAT DID IT additional responses gathered
INVOLVE? from a second survey sent to Owners often have strong

Rae is currently conducting participants. In this second but opposing views

her PhD at Nottingham Trent survey, Rae asked participants www.yourcat.co.uk 33

University and this study formed how they made their choice

a component of her ongoing between an indoor-only or

research.The aims of her PhD indoor-outdoor lifestyle for their

are to understand more about cat, and to also rate how strongly

the welfare and management they considered different factors

of cats in relation to their in this decision making.

environmental provisions and Survey responses were then

the type of indoor/outdoor split into two groups; owners of

access they have. indoor-only cats and owners

Rae is keen to explore of indoor-outdoor cats.The

whether cats’ behaviour and reasons provided by each group

well-being is affected by the in relation to why they chose

type of lifestyles they are that lifestyle for their cat were

exposed to, how owners make analysed. Differences in the

decisions regarding the way demographic features of both

they manage their cats, and the cats and owners from these

potential differences across two groups were also compared. ▼

THE SCIENCE OF CATS

WHY DID OWNERS owners (58.7 per cent) from being worried that their go out.
MAKE THESE said this was the factor that cat might get lost to needing Owners also considered
DECISIONS? influenced them most strongly, to give their cat regular
and this was consistent across medications for various that outdoor access meant
INDOOR-ONLY CAT OWNERS: owners in the UK and Europe, illnesses. their cats could have space
the USA and Canada, as well away from other cats they
For owners of indoor-only cats, as Australia and New Zealand. INDOOR-OUTDOOR lived with, and because their
18.7 per cent of owners could cat liked to toilet outside
not provide their cats with Another interesting finding, CAT OWNERS: rather than in an indoor tray.
outdoor access as they lived the second most common
in flats or apartments, and reason for choosing an For indoor-outdoor owners, Why is
73.1 per cent of owners did indoor-only lifestyle varied by around 70 per cent felt that
have outdoor space but still region. In the UK and Europe, the opportunity to explore the this study
kept their cats indoors. owners said they wanted outdoors was good for their
to protect their cat from cat’s mental and physical useful?
Interestingly, 8.2 per cent other people, as they were health.
of owners reported that it concerned their cat might be By understanding what is
was the cat that made the stolen or harmed. In the USA When asked what the major important to owners and
decision to stay indoors and and Canada, owners primarily reason was for providing their the factors that influence
they wouldn’t go outside wanted to protect their cats with outdoor access, their decision-making,
even if the door was left cats from common animal 38 per cent confirmed it was we will be better able to
open for them (although we predators such as bears, for the benefit of the cats’ provide them with the
don’t know from the study eagles, coyotes, and snakes. mental health, and 18 per right support to ensure
how inviting and cat friendly In Australia and New Zealand, cent for their physical health. their cats’ needs are
these particular outdoor owners wanted to stop their Indoor-outdoor owners also being adequately met.
environments were.) cats from hunting, as native mentioned prioritising what Additionally, the more we
birds in these regions are they felt their cats wanted understand about the
Traffic concerns was the particularly susceptible to (even when this wasn’t potential impacts different
most common reason given being hunted by predators. necessarily what the owner lifestyles might have on
by owners who chose an would prefer!), with 32.9 per cats’ well-being (Rae’s next
indoor-only lifestyle for their Other considerations that cent of owners saying the papers!), the better able
cats, with a whopping 98.7 influenced owners to keep major reason they allowed we are to target our advice
per cent of indoor-only owners their cats indoors ranged their cat outdoors was where it’s needed most.
reporting it influenced their because their cat wanted to
decision. Over half of these We can also make sure
that we carefully match
Cats in urban settings individual cats to the
are more likely to be lifestyles we think they will
indoor-only. be able to thrive within. In
the UK for example, studies
suggest an increased
trend in the number of
cats kept solely indoors.
These numbers are likely to
continue to rise in line with
increasing urbanisation.
With greater demands for
indoor-only cats, rehoming
centres may need to
think carefully about how
they can assess their
cats in order to gauge
their potential suitability
for indoor-only lifestyles.
Meeting a cat’s emotional
and physical needs when
housed strictly indoors can
be challenging, therefore
such owners may be the
most important to target in
terms of providing advice.

34 Your Cat April 2021

HOW CAN I MAKE Cats need to be
SURE MY CAT able to practise their
THRIVES IN THEIR
ENVIRONMENT? natural instincts.

CHOOSE A CAT WITH NEEDS very brachycephalic, may be Cats’ indoor
prone to debilitating health environments need
YOU CAN PROVIDE FOR: problems and therefore might to be stimulating.
need more careful supervision
Ultimately, we need to while venturing outdoors.
remember that all cats are However, they may still love to
individuals and have different lay in a comfortable spot in
personalities, previous life the garden.
experiences, and energy
requirements. If you are IF YOU ALREADY HAVE A CAT: mouse and bird-like objects the items mentioned above.
looking to acquire a cat, think
first about the type of lifestyle Whether your cat has access on the ends of wands or Indoor litter trays and comfy,
you are intending to provide to the outdoors or not, but
them with, and seek a cat particularly if you do have an fishing rods, which can also quiet spots will be particularly
that might be best suited to indoor-only cat, it’s always a
this. great idea to make sure their help cats expend energy. useful if bad weather or them
environment is as positively
If your home doesn’t come stimulating as possible.There Try using puzzle feeders feeling unwell means your cat
with access to an outdoor are tips below but there is also
space, consider adopting extensive advice at to keep cats entertained would rather stay inside.
a very sociable but older www.yourcat.co.uk.
and more sedentary cat. and prevent food gorging It’s also a great idea to
This type of cat is likely to ENRICHMENT FOR
be better suited to being (obesity can be a particularly make your outdoor space as
confined indoors than INDOOR CATS:
a young, bold individual common issue amongst cat friendly as possible, even
with lots of energy. Often, In addition to ensuring their
rehoming centres will have basic needs are met through indoor-only cats). Commercial for cats who roam beyond
information on each cats’ the provision of litter trays,
previous living experiences food, and water bowls, make enrichment feeders are widely the boundaries of the home.
and potentially details about sure you:
how well they coped with this. available, but home-made Scratching posts, such as
This information can be very Have a selection of
helpful in determining a cat’s scratching posts (such as sisal solutions, such as filling toilet large tree trunks, can help
future suitability to an and cardboard, both vertical
indoor-only lifestyle. and horizontal), as well as Did youroll tubes with kibble can be
climbing trees throughout the
Although there is a house. just as good, and can mean
common assumption that your cat to mark their territory,
pedigree cats are not ‘road Provide a variety of resting and raised ledges or shelves
wise’ or generally just make and hiding spots, ideally know?the puzzle changes each
better indoor cats, there a mixture of covered and help them to keep a look out
is currently no scientific uncovered, in high and low
evidence to support this. Even places. session. for intruders.
though pedigree breeds are xx You can make your outdoor
more likely to be kept indoors, Provide a variety of toys
it doesn’t necessarily mean that encourage hunting ENRICHMENT FOR space as weather friendly
that this is always the best behaviours, such as soft,
lifestyle for them. INDOOR-OUTDOOR CATS: as possible by providing

Certain pedigree breeds If your cat does go outdoors, hiding spots where your cat
with limited body hair, such
as the Devon Rex or Sphynx, do not assume you don’t can be protected from the
may be more vulnerable to
external weather conditions. need enrichment within your rain in winter but also be
While these breeds may need
more careful management home too! Many cats have sheltered from the sun during
when outside, this doesn’t
mean they can’t still enjoy restricted outdoor access and the summer. Access to clean
all the benefits of a
cat-friendly outdoor rely on owners opening doors water indoors and outdoors is
environment. Other pedigree
breeds, such as those that are for them, so still spend large also important whatever the

portions of their day confined season.

in the house. If they have Article reference: Foreman-Worsley, R.; Finka, L.R.; Ward,
the urge to scratch, toilet, S.J.; Farnworth, M.J. (2021) Indoors or Outdoors? An
hunt, or sleep while indoors, International Exploration of Owner Demographics
ensure they can do so easily and Decision Making Associated with Lifestyle of Pet
by providing them with all Cats. Animals. 11 (2). 253. https://doi.org/10.3390/

ani11020253

www.yourcat.co.uk 35

CAT BREED INDEX: RAGDOLL Rosemary Fisher entered Its sociable nature
the cat fancy in 1974 makes the Ragdoll
when she purchased her one of the most
first pedigree cat — a popular breeds in
Chinchilla called Brylou the world. Is it the
Moonstone. She breeds breed for you?
Persians and Exotics, and
judges in several sections. Ragdolls are
She is currently a GCCF very popular.
Board member and
also serves on the APPEARANCE
genetics committee.
The Ragdoll is a large, semi-longhaired cat
HISTORY which reaches full maturity at around four
years of age.
The Ragdoll breed was developed to adhere to Ann Baker’s strict
in the 1960s by a breeder called standards and was not allowed to They should be well balanced with
Ann Baker, in Riverside, California. register with anyone other than the no extreme features.Temperament is an
IRCA. important aspect for this lovely breed and
The foundation cats were all bred they should be relaxed, gentle, and easy to
from a white domestic long-hair By the mid 1970s, other breeders handle.
female called Josephine, who wanted to gain wider recognition
was considered to have unique for Ragdolls and a breakaway The Ragdoll’s broad head has a flat
temperament traits. Ann Baker group, led by Denny and Laura plane between medium-sized ears that
acquired a seal mitted male Dayton, developed the current have inner furnishings, rounded tips, and a
with a white blaze called Daddy Ragdoll standard accepted by slight forward tilt.The cheeks should be well
Warbucks — a son of Josephine by major cat registries. developed and the nose medium in length,
an unknown sire — as well as two of with a gentle dip when viewed in profile and
Josephine’s daughters, Buckwheat Ragdolls were imported to the is slightly retroussé at the tip.The eyes are
— who was black, from a different UK by Pat Brownsell and Lulu large and set slightly obliquely, and should
unknown sire — and Fugianna Rowley in 1981, and the breed be deep blue in tone.
— a seal bi-colour, sired by Daddy was recognised by the Governing
Warbucks. Buckwheat was also Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) The body of a Ragdoll is long and
mated to Daddy Warbucks and in nine years later. muscular; the neck is short and thick with
1965, the offspring of this mating a broad chest.The legs are medium length
were the first registered Ragdolls; and strong, with substantial bone and the
they were Raggedy Ann Kyoto and paws large and round. A long, bushy tail that
Raggedy Ann Tiki. tapers slightly towards the tip finishes the
picture.
Ann Baker then developed a
breeding programme using the They’re known for
offspring of these two cats. She their temperament.
trademarked the name Ragdoll and
rather than register the breed with
an established registry, she set up
her own: the International Ragdoll
Cat Association (IRCA). Anyone
wishing to breed Ragdoll cats had

36 Your Cat April 2021

THE COAT HAS A LOVELY FEEL. IT IS SILKY AND PURRSONALITY

DENSE TO THE TOUCH AND MEDIUM IN LENGTH. Ragdolls are strikingly beautiful cats, but the
most frequently cited reason by the breed’s
A MATURE CAT WILL USUALLY SPORT A RUFF aficionados for living with a Ragdoll is their CAT BREED INDEX: RAGDOLL
temperament.
AROUND THE NECK AND KNICKERBOCKERS TO THE
It has been said that they go completely
HIND LEGS.THE RAGDOLL IS A POINTED CAT AND limp when picked up, although this is
something of a misconception. Ragdolls are
COMES IN THREE DIFFERENT PATTERNS: very docile and affectionate cats, and will
often relax completely when handled by their
● Colourpointed — where the have evenly matched white owners.This attractive trait, combined with their
quiet voice and attachment to their human
deepest colour is restricted to mittens and the back legs family, makes them an ideal family pet and
one of the most popular cat breeds worldwide.
the mask, ears, legs, paws, and should be white. They are the second most popular breed
registered with the GCCF.
tail.They come in solid colours: ● Bi-Colour — in this pattern
They are social cats and will appreciate
seal, blue, chocolate, lilac, red, group, the mask should have the companionship of another feline friend,
especially if you are at work during the day.
and cream.Tortie points: seal an inverted ‘V’ of white starting
They enjoy being
tortie, blue tortie, chocolate on the forehead, covering the part of the family.

tortie, and lilac tortie.Tabby nose, whisker pads, and chin. Did you know?

pointed in the same colours The bib, chest, and underbody Famous Ragdoll owners include Sylvester
Stallone and Taylor Swift, as well as the late
as the solid points and tortie should be white, as should Freddie Mercury.

tabby pointed. the front legs.The back legs Do your
homework before
● Mitted — the colour of should also be white to the getting a Ragdoll.

the points in the mitted level of the underbody.

Ragdoll are the same as in Ragdoll kittens are all born

the colourpointed variety, white and the colour starts to

but there can be a narrow develop a few days after birth.

white blaze on the nose, and As the Ragdoll kitten grows, its

the chin, bib, chest, and the colour will continue to develop

underbody from chest to tail and, as an adult, may darken

is white.The front paws should over time.

HEALTH

Although semi-longhaired, they are relatively low maintenance.They do
require regular grooming, using a wide-toothed metal comb, but the
coat texture is silky and it is the work of a few minutes to ensure their
coat is kept in tip top condition. However, failure to groom will result in
mats, and it is also important to remove old coat when they moult in
the spring or summer.

If you are considering adding a Ragdoll to your family, please
ensure you do your homework thoroughly before purchasing! Ragdolls
can carry a gene that leads to a form of heart disease called HCM
(hypertrophic cardiomyopathy) that can result in heart failure at an
early age. In 2007, a DNA test
became available to breeders to
identify the one known defective
gene that can cause HCM in
the Ragdoll. Under the GCCF
registration policy for Ragdolls,
all Ragdoll cats registered active
for breeding from February 2016
must be tested for the gene.
Discuss this with your vet and the
breeder of your new kitten so that
you understand the implications,
and ask to be given copies of the
parents’ test results along with their
other kitten paperwork.

Neutered male Ragdoll cats
weigh between 12 — 20 pounds,
with females around 8 — 15
pounds.Their life expectancy is
around 15 years.

iNsseuxet The Russian
Blue.

www.yourcat.co.uk 37

Cat care
OUR PANEL OF EXPERTS Got a question?

GENERAL CARE The Your Cat experts are here to help with all your feline
dilemmas! Send your question to our experts by email
Celia Haddon MA MSc MA ([email protected]) or post (see page 5 for our address).
is a well-known pet columnist
and author of numerous cat Make sure your cat’s
books. She is a cat lover and grooming doesn’t
owner, with a cat behaviour
qualification and broad become excessive.
experience of feline issues.
VETERINARY
VETERINARY
She’s biting
Aga Zoltowska BVSc out her fur!
MANZCVS (Medicine of
Cats) DipCABT MRCVS
graduated from the University
of Liverpool in 2005 and is
passionate about cat welfare.
Find out more at www.
thecatboxsolutions.com

BEHAVIOUR

Kim Houston BSc (Hons),
Dip (AS) CABC, CCAB is
a consultant in feline behaviour.
She works with clients
throughout the UK, helping
to resolve cat behaviour
problems. Find out more at
www.cat-astrophes.com

HOLISTIC

Holly Mash BVSc IVAS
MRCVS specialises in
complementary medicine
including herbalism and
acupuncture. She
also runs online courses.

BEREAVEMENT Q Since she was often? Have you treated you do not find any fleas
neutered, my the house and your cats or flea dirt.
Dr Sue Dawson is young cat recently? Unfortunately,
a counselling psychologist has been biting and even if a cat never goes If the overgrooming and
specialising in pulling at her fur. She’s outside, there is still a biting continues, despite
human-companion overgrooming, what is it risk of fleas becoming a the flea treatment and
animal relationships and best to do? problem. especially if there are any
pet bereavement. Your Cat reader wounds or scabs, the best
Has any person in the thing is to organise a visit
GROOMING AGA SAYS: house been bitten by to her vet who will be able
insects? You can check for to fully investigate.
Anita Kelsey BA Hons, AOvergrooming fleas either by combing
MCFBA, CIDBT runs a vet can be a serious the coat and looking for Top tip!
referral practice dedicated problem and the fleas, or by brushing the
to behaviour problems in main reasons for it are coat over white paper There are a range
cats. She is also an expert cat related to skin irritation, and looking for black of treatments
groomer. Find out more at pain, or psychological specs that dissolve and and preventative
www.catbehaviourist.com problems. become red after being medications for
splashed with water fleas. Discuss
NUTRITION The first thing that we — these are flea dirt. If these with your
must rule out is parasites your cats have not been vet to find the
Clare Hemmings Cert CFVH Nut — mainly fleas. Are you treated for fleas recently, best solution for
is passionate about pet nutrition treating your cats against I would recommend your cat.
and a regular contributor to fleas? If yes, what product treating them all, even if
veterinary publications. She do you use and how
has owned many cats over the
years, who have all lived well
into their twenties; she attributes
this to excellent nutrition. She
is scientific communications
manager for Royal Canin, where
she has worked for 15 years.

Cat insurance call 03300 243 997

Sponsored by

BEHAVIOUR GENERAL CARE

WE CAN’T GET Bell on
the collar
HIM TO THE VET’S
Q I would like to do my best
Q We have a 13-year-old male more difficult with each subsequent attempt. to protect the birds that
cat who we are struggling When faced with something unnerving, such come into my garden. Is
to take to the vet’s. For the as the carrier, retreating is a normal feline putting a bell on my cat's collar a
past 12 years, he has had his regular behaviour. Ultimately, what a fearful cat good idea? I did read that it can be
routine checks and immunisations. needs is choice; a cat that feels he has no uncomfortable for their hearing.
Unfortunately, the last time we choice will always feel backed into a corner Kath Watkins
attempted to take him, he absolutely and will look for the first opportunity to bolt
freaked out and we couldn’t get him in for cover. CELIA SAYS:
his carrier basket. We tried again last
week without success. We’re worried However, it is important to have your cat A A bell on a collar probably
about him missing these appointments seen by a veterinarian at least once a year reduces bird casualties but
but more worried that the stress may be so age-related problems can be detected cats can learn how to stalk so
more harmful to his health. early. Cats are considered elderly once slowly so that the bell doesn’t ring!
they reach 11 years of age, with senior cats
We’ve tried different approaches but defined as those aged between 11 — 14 The potential problem with putting
to no avail! As he doesn’t go out an years.Your boy is at the upper end of the a bell on a cat’s collar isn’t so much
awful lot, would it be OK to not have his senior scale.This is where health checks the noise of the bell, as the collar itself.
annual check-up now? become even more important because Collars with elastic are downright
Julie Murcott age-related issues, if left unaddressed, can dangerous. Cats have been found
have serious consequences. dead or seriously injured after one of
KIM SAYS: their front paws got stuck in their collar.
The International Society of Feline
AGetting a cat into a carrier can be Medicine (ISFM) has developed a Cat The other danger is that the collar
difficult because it’s often a signal Friendly Clinic programme that is specifically gets caught up in a branch and
that something unpleasant is going aimed at reducing stress of veterinary visits strangles them.To keep your cat safe,
to happen, such as a trip to the vet’s. for cats.They may be able to advise the best you will need to find a collar that has
way forward for your boy’s cat carrier fear. a good quick-release buckle.Test this
However, this has been made more before buying. If your cat occasionally
problematic in your case because your It could well be that a home vet visit or loses their collar, the quick-release
boy experienced a very frightening, anti-anxiety medications might be buckle is working as it should do.Next,
negative experience when you tried to necessary in the short-term while getting it must fit tight, but not too tight, so you
put him in. He now associates the carrier him accustomed to the carrier once again. need an adjustable collar. When the
with fear, stress, and anxiety, thus making it Please check out: catfriendlyclinic.org collar is on the neck, you should be
able to insert two fingers if your cat is
Cats can build negative short haired, or two to three fingers if it
associations with the carrier as is long haired.
it can be a signal of something
To protect the birds in your garden
unpleasant, like a vet visit. further, you can make sure that your
cat cannot ambush the ground
feeding ones. Site your bird table very
carefully and if he is hiding under
bushes to ambush, keep him away by
putting some scrumpled wire netting
on any ambush sites. Keeping him in
at night will also help protect birds
at dawn and dusk,
their main feeding
times.

Choose your
cat’s collar very

carefully to
ensure it is safe.

theinsuranceemporium.co.uk/YC99

www.yourcat.co.uk 39

Cat care

Remember, there is a huge range of advice on health,
behaviour, general care, and more on the Your Cat website.

Visit www.yourcat.co.uk

VETERINARY Keep an eye on
your cat’s toileting
Coping habits, as they can
with feline be a sign of health
urinary problems.
tract disease

Q My cat, Cody, had Stress plays a big role in this as a Pet Remedy diffuser) can lower urinary tract disease,
had a lot of blood condition. We need to think be very helpful but I would especially male cats, can
in his urine and about how we can support all suggest that you speak to develop a blockage leading
has been diagnosed with of Cody’s needs, making him your vet about how to use to being unable to pass urine.
feline lower urinary tract more relaxed. Some cats, just them effectively. I would also This is a serious complication,
disease. How do we cope like some people, are more recommend a behavioural especially if not diagnosed
with this, other than with food prone to becoming worried consultation for Cody to help and treated promptly.
changes? Will this affect his or anxious, without showing you with identification of
lifespan? it. By examining Cody’s daily potential issues. Unfortunately, the disease
Francesca Camp routine and environment, we can affect the quality of life if
can find ways of improving Increasing his water intake it is not managed properly. It
AGA SAYS: his life. Pheromonal therapy, may also help. It is worth is crucial to think about the
such as a Feliway diffuser, as investigating the ways you management of the condition
A Feline lower urinary well as herbal therapy (such can encourage Cody to drink on multiple levels, as you are
tract disease is very more. Cats suffering from feline already doing.
common in our cat
population and can be
challenging to manage.
There are many factors that
influence the disease process
and it is reassuring that you
are looking for ways of helping
Cody that extend beyond
dietary management.

GROOMING

TACKLING HAIRBALLS

Long-haired cats can Q I’ve got a ANITA SAYS:
benefit from the right long-haired cat and
she gets hairballs A It’s fairly common for
type of comb. quite regularly. Does this cats to have fur balls,
mean I should brush her as they are licking fur
more often? when they clean themselves. I
would change your grooming
At the moment, I give her tool to a moulting comb, to
a brush once or twice a catch more fur than your
week with a soft pin brush soft pin brush. I would also
to get out tangles and bits recommend using a fur ball
of debris from her coat. I am paste, such as the one from
just wondering if this is not the Beaphar brand, as this
enough and is the reason for helps to break up any fur that
the hairballs? is inside the gut, allowing it to
Your Cat reader move freely to the bowel area.

Cat insurance call 03300 243 997

Vaccines teach the feline GENERAL CARE
body how to fight viruses.
FOOD AND DRINK

Q Why don’t cats like having
their drinking water next to
their food? I’ve heard it many
times that cats don’t see a link between
eating and drinking like humans do
— why is that?
Matt Charles

VETERINARY CELIA SAYS:

What’s in A Our domestic cats have inherited
vaccinations? many of the same instincts as
their ancestors. Wild cats are
Q Vaccines are obviously a recommended in specific cases (for hunters but they are also hunted by
hot topic this year and it got example, leukaemia vaccination for larger carnivores. If a cat is busy eating,
me thinking about my cat’s outdoor cats). it cannot keep a good lookout for any
jabs. I get my cat vaccinated as it is dangers nearby. Cats therefore usually
recommended by my vet, and I will The animal vaccinations use bring back their prey to a safe place to
always do. I just wondered what my cat the same mechanisms as human eat, normally the place where they sleep.
is vaccinated against and do they work vaccinations to help us build immunity. Like their ancestors, they like to eat in
in the same way — do vaccines teach As you said, they teach the cat’s safety.
the feline immune system to fight the immune system to fight the infections.
diseases? The branch of the immune system They cannot do this with water, of
Ron Smodzics which is educated by vaccinations course. Cats have to drink wherever
is called ‘adaptive’ there is water, however risky.Therefore,
AGA SAYS: immunity, where by in the wild, they do not eat and drink at
exposure to a fragment of the same time and place. Our domestic
A The world of immunity and the virus, or a weakened cats still perform many of the same
vaccinations is a fascinating one! virus, in a vaccination, behaviours as their wild ancestors and
The cat vaccinations are split helps the immune cells as feral cats. A survey of cat owners
into two categories: core and non-core mature and learn to confirmed that, if they had a choice, most
vaccinations. recognise and react to cats preferred to drink in a different room
the virus that causes the to the room where they ate.
In the core vaccination category, we disease.
have flu (herpes and calici virus) and kDnidowy?ou
enteritis (panleukopenia virus) which Top tip!
causes severe disease of the intestines. In Running or Though we provide it
the non-core category, we have the feline For more information flowing water in bowls, cats retain
leukaemia virus (also known as FeLV) and about vaccinations, can sometimes their wild instincts
chlamydia. visit https://icatcare. encourage cats when it comes to
org/advice/ to drink. food and drink.
Core vaccinations are essential for vaccinating-your-cat/
all cats and non-core vaccinations are

theinsuranceemporium.co.uk/YC99

www.yourcat.co.uk 41

Advertorial

Help your cat
stay parasite free.

MAKE SURE YOU’RE READY

FOR FLEA,TICK, AND WORM SEASON

Leading pet care brand Bob Martin takes you

through the essential steps all cat owners should

follow to treat and protect their furry friends.

Did you know a single THREE SIMPLE STEPS TO MAKE SURE YOU’RE WELL PREPARED
female flea can lay up
to 50 eggs daily? That 1CHECK REGULARLY TO SEE IF Clear Home Flea Spray Plus and spray on
means that if you’re YOU’VE GOT A PROBLEM all soft furnishings, which kills fleas and ticks
not careful, you could have an
infestation on your hands in just ● Check behind your cat’s ears, head, and on contact for up to three months.
a few days!
neck.You should be able to feel a lump 3PREVENTING PROBLEMS
Luckily, Bob Martin has been should a tick be present. IN THE FIRST PLACE
working hard for well over ● Place your cat on some white paper,
a hundred years to make
vet-quality healthcare solutions at then comb them with a flea comb. Flecks of Prevention is vital, so it should be a key
affordable prices.They certainly
know a thing or two when it black that change to red when you wet the part of your pet care plan. Be sure to follow
comes to the importance of
being prepared for the flea, tick, paper are signs of flea dirt. these steps to prevent pesky parasites:
and worm season when it arrives.
● Keep an eye out to see if your cat 1 Use the Bob Martin Clear Flea & Tick
Spring and summer months
present a much higher risk factor is constantly nibbling or scratching Repellent Collar for cats and kittens, which
for our cats coming into contact
with parasites when roaming themselves. prevents fleas and ticks for up to 12 weeks.
during the warmer weather. If not
properly treated, fleas can lay 2TREAT YOUR CAT 2 As cat owners know, worming is an
eggs in your home. Developing AND YOUR HOME essential part of pet care. Choose the
into larvae, they hide away in correct Bob Martin Clear Wormer for your
furnishings and under beds and
sofas, where they develop into If you’ve identified that your cat has fleas or cat — the company recommends worming
adult fleas and feed from human
and pet blood. ticks, here’s how to treat them: every 12 weeks to be safe.

An infestation can be tricky 1 First off, use the Bob Martin Flea Tablet, 3 Use the Bob Martin Clear Flea & Tick
to clear if you are not using the
correct products and treating checking product instructions and Spray for Pets & Home, which is a
your home, as well as your cat.
weighing your cat to ensure appropriate high-quality preventative product that can
Not only are fleas, ticks, and
worms pesky parasites, they can dosage.The tablets provide an immediate be used on both cats and your home. It
transmit nasty diseases which are
dangerous to pets and humans response to treat infestations — killing all uses a ‘sticky trap’, which works against
— and in the worst possible
case can even result in death. fleas within 24 hours! fleas at all stages of the lifecycle, stopping
Infectious diseases can include
Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis, and 2 Alternatively, select a Bob Martin Clear an infestation taking charge of your home.
Tick Borne Encephalitis Virus (TBE),
which is why it’s critical to deal Plus Spot On product for your cat, which It also contains a repellent to keep the fleas
with the problem straight away.
can be applied at intervals of four weeks. away from your cat and their bedding.

3 If used properly, these will completely

eradicate the infestation and your cat By following the advice above, you and

should soon be back to full health. your best friend should be equipped to

4 Even though your cat might be free of tackle whatever the dreaded flea, tick, and

fleas, your home will likely now have an worm season throws at you!

infestation.To treat it, use the Bob Martin The Bob Martin
Repellent cat
It’s important
to treat your collar.
home, as well
as your cat. Bob Martin offer treatments
as tablets or spot ons.

42 Your Cat April 2021

DIARY MOVEMENT DISORDERS IN SPHYNX CATS

When we breed pedigree Dovecote Veterinary Hospital,

cats, there are a limited and Laurent Garosi from Vet

number of animals that Oracle Teleradiology to help

can be bred together find cases of the disorder that

Could you spare some time within that breed — what could contribute to helping to
to help with research into cat
welfare? CEO Claire Bessant we call a small gene pool. understand the problem.
explains how you can get involved.
If a problem occurs within Matthew Green says:

that gene pool, it can be “Paroxysmal dyskinesia is an

inherited by many cats.The uncontrollable episode of

severity of a problem and abnormal movement that

how many cats it affects can may involve muscle spasms

vary greatly. or cramps, twisting of the

International Cat Care is working with Sometimes, we only realise body, twitching, or tremoring
different organisations that want to
find cat owners who can help them there is a bigger problem of the head or limbs, leading
by sharing their experiences. So, if
you want to be involved in surveys and when we get to hear about to difficulty walking normally.
studies that are working to take cat
welfare forward, then please join in! a number of individual cats These movements could

who are showing problems be mistaken for seizures

Please and bring the cases but, unlike many epileptic

together. seizures, cats do not lose

One such problem consciousness during the

HOW DO YOU FIND GIVING that is coming to light is episodes.The frequency and

join in!MEDICATIONS TO YOUR CAT? a movement disorder in duration of the episodes can

Have you ever struggled to give Sphynx cats. It is called vary considerably between
your cat a tablet? International Cat
Care would like manufacturers and paroxysmal dyskinesia (or affected cats, from seconds to
veterinary professionals to ‘think cat’
when designing and prescribing ‘movement disorder’).Visit minutes or hours.”
medications. For many years, we have
urged pharmaceutical companies to the International Cat Care Matthew continues:
make their medications more user friendly by giving ‘Easy to
Give’ awards for palatable medicines or different routes of website to see a video of a “The underlying cause of
administration to the classic tablet.
Sphynx cat with paroxysmal paroxysmal dyskinesia is often
We want to encourage veterinary professionals to give more
consideration to owners’ needs and abilities to medicate dyskinesia: icatcare.org/ unknown, but it is becoming
their cats.To do this, we need evidence of how owners find
medicating their beloved pets. movement-disorders-in- increasingly recognised in

International Cat Care and Vet Professional have produced sphynx-cats/ veterinary medicine. We are
a survey for owners that discusses different types of medication,
the support owners have received from their vets, and how International Cat Care looking to find owners of
medicating their cat may have affected their relationship.
is working with neurology Sphynx cats with suspected

specialists Matthew Green paroxysmal dyskinesia. We

and Mark Lowrie from would ask you to complete

a short online questionnaire

about your cat’s disorder.”

GET INVOLVED If you think your Sphynx cat
may be affected by paroxysmal
The survey can be found here: https:// dyskinesia, please email matthew.
www.vetprofessionals.com/site/survey- green@dovecoteveterinaryhospital.
detail?ID=Medicating-cats-at-home and takes co.uk and Matthew will send you
around 15 minutes to complete. the questionnaire.

RECOGNISING PAIN

In last month’s Your Cat Magazine, there was an article about
the Feline Grimace Scale. It is a fascinating tool, with the
research being conducted by Beatriz Monteiro and Paulo
Steagall from the University of Montreal to help us learn to
recognise cats’ facial expressions that indicate they are in
pain.You can help to test to see how easy it is for owners to
be able to use the Feline Grimace Scale.

GET INVOLVED

Visit https://www.research.net/r/FGS2021 — not
only can you contribute to the research, but what
you learn may help you to help your cat one day
too.The survey is open until 15 May, 2021.

www.yourcat.co.uk 43





Behaviour

The litter was a Dkindoywo?u
surprise to Toni!
If a stray cat turns up
UNEXPECTED in your garden, it could

arrivals be worth contacting
your local

rescue centre.
for help.

Peter takes on one of his most unusual T oni’s email was certainly unique.
cases ever, helping someone who I arranged a virtual visit with Toni
doesn’t even own a cat! the following day to see what we
could do about ‘not her cat.’
Toni Svenson says: Dear Peter, let me start this Peter Neville is an adjunct Toni lived on her own in a cottage that
message by stating clearly that I don’t have a cat. teaching professor in bordered open countryside. So it was not
Writing to you for help about a cat is not really animal behaviour at The unusual to see animals out and about,
something I ever envisioned myself doing! Ohio State University, USA, which is why Toni wasn’t particularly
and a director of COAPE surprised at this cat’s presence initially.
Anyway, a few months ago, a cat started International — an online Since I was helping Toni via Zoom, I asked
appearing in my garden. I didn’t mind as she education provider of pet her to carry her laptop to the cupboard
seemed perfectly happy to keep a distance. I made behaviour therapy courses: so I could watch what was going on with
no attempt to go closer and she didn’t approach www.coapesa.com the cat and her babies.
me. I started asking around to see if she belonged
to anyone. None of my neighbours had cats, so I The first thing I noticed was that the
assumed she was feral. She seemed quite fat and cat was in very good condition for one
healthy and so I was happy to leave her be.
Enigma and her
You can imagine my surprise when I investigated babies.
a noise in an open cupboard in the guest bedroom
one day and found not only this cat in the cupboard,
but also five tiny kittens! I was so shocked that I did
nothing except stare at her. When I moved closer,
she meowed at me, loudly. I took that as displeasure
so I retreated and immediately went to look for a cat
behaviourist online, which is how I found you.

I have since been back into the room quite a
lot — it’s been about eight days since the kittens
were born — to put down food and water for her as I
assumed that she wouldn’t be able to hunt now that
she has babies, so I bought some kibble from the
shops.

And so, here I am asking for advice please! What
do I do? Where do I start?

44 Your Cat April 2021

One of the
kittens.

Perhaps this before we did anything more, I had jump up and run to Toni whenever she
quite a candid conversation with Toni saw her.Toni was surprised the first time
cat had about what she saw happening in her it happened but since she had learned
immediate future. If she decided to put that ‘tail up’ and a ‘trill’ was a good thing
chosen her. the cat and kittens up for adoption, in cat language, she found it delightful.
it would be better to involve a rescue I am so pleased that I was able to see
who’d probably not had anyone caring organisation immediately. If she was Toni’s face the very first time that Enigma
for her for some months. Her coat was thinking about keeping the cat and rubbed up against her, it was such a
glossy, her body condition good, and she just rehoming the kittens, we would privilege to witness the precise moment
seemed very relaxed in Toni’s cupboard. need to help Toni learn about cat that someone fell in love with a cat!
Her kittens were fat and healthy. When communication, socialisation, handling,
Toni put the laptop down, the cat looked welfare, and husbandry from scratch, Toni was an excellent student. She
up from her resting place, looked at Toni and in a very short space of time! implemented all the advice, from
and immediately started kneading the handling the kittens individually to caring
blanket on the ground next to her. She let Toni admitted that she was surprised for Enigma. She placed scratching posts
out a meow that was surprisingly loud, at how sad she felt at the thought of the around the room and then the house,
which made Toni step back. cat and kittens being taken away by a had multiple feeding and watering
shelter and at the thought of her house stations and litter trays, and she provided
Toni had told me earlier that she did being quiet and empty. I smiled and toys and interactive enrichment for the
not know how to read a cat’s body agreed; cats certainly do have a knack kittens as they grew and became more
language at all, and that she was of finding their way into your heart and mobile.
actually quite nervous of cats.This was home.Toni was a senior lady, living on her
the longest she’d ever been near a cat own during a time that was difficult for all Once her confidence grew, she was
and she did not know why this one was of us, and without a lot of social contact. unstoppable.There was just one tiny
shouting at her. She assumed that it was Perhaps this cat had chosen her! moment where disaster nearly struck:
to warn her away from her young. Toni went from ‘don’t know about cats’
CAT LESSONS to ‘completely madly in love with them’
AFFECTIONATE KITTY in the space of just a month, and at
A day later,Toni called to let me know one point she was seriously considering
However, this cat was definitely not that she'd decided to keep the cat. keeping all six! I did, however, manage
unhappy with Toni’s presence. In fact, She had chosen to call her Enigma, to convince her that perhaps that would
it looked like she was being quite since that was exactly what she was. not be such a good idea, and she settled
affectionate, what with the kneading and I was really pleased to hear this and on keeping Enigma and just the one
soft blinking happening in the cupboard. immediately arranged for a bi-weekly kitten that she named Snowball.
I asked Toni if she had ever tried to touch ‘cat educational’ session with her and
the cat, to which she replied quite firmly: referred her to some excellent books and
“Definitely not — I don’t want to risk educational sources.
upsetting her and her abandoning the
babies!”That implied that she was both I started by spending a couple of
respectful and caring: a very good start! hours with Toni, showing her some films
that explored feline body language. We
I had a feeling that this case was going discussed what friendly, upset, sad, angry,
to revolve around teaching Toni more and playful looked like, and after this,Toni
about cats, since the cat herself felt a lot less nervous around Enigma. She
did not appear to have any soon recognised that Enigma was not
problems that needed being so defensive in her presence; she
addressing. But just had a really loud voice! I knew that
we would have to work at Toni’s pace,
since she was the one who would have
to implement the advice.

To build her confidence, I asked Toni
to hand-feed Enigma for a
week and soon she would

Toni fell in love with them. PROBLEM SOLVED! home with play and the sounds of
laughter.Toni was fascinated by the
When the kittens were 12 weeks two of them and the kitten’s antics
old,Toni found homes for all of had her smiling all day long.
them. She had contracts drawn up
that the new ‘pet parents’ would This case was definitely one
neuter their charges and that they of my favourites, as it was just so
would let her know how the kittens special to be included in someone’s
were doing on a regular basis. personal journey of becoming a
Enigma and Snowball filled Toni’s cat lover from the very start!

www.yourcat.co.uk 45

Senior Kitizens

There are many things
you can do to make
your senior kitty’s life
more comfortable.

Living
in comfort

We take a look at how you can make life easier for your senior cat.

Last issue, we looked at Home renovations
what it means for a cat
to reach their senior Let’s start by looking at your creaky joints would definitely to navigate flights of stairs
years. While older age cat’s home environment. appreciate more cushioning to get to the tray). It is also
may see the feline body slow Even small changes to your and support in their favourite important to consider that
down, many cats enjoy their home can make life much sleeping spots. even if your cat has always
lives well into being elderly. more manageable for your toileted outside, he may be
As your cat enters their elderly cat.The best thing, ● RAMPS AND STEPPING less inclined to do so now.
golden years, there is plenty all of these changes are TOOLS: if your cat likes to Litter trays should have low
you can do to make their life small and inexpensive, but explore shelves and climb, sides that are easy to climb
more comfortable, so you will make a huge difference provide ramps and stepping in and out of.
can focus on having more to your cat. tools where possible to
great experiences together. ● BEDS: make sure your minimise discomfort that may ● WATER AND FOOD: make
cat has a variety of easily be caused by old joints or sure water and food bowls
Many cats accessible, cosy beds. injury because your ageing are easy to reach, both
enjoy their If your cat likes to sleep cat has miscalculated upstairs and downstairs.
lives well into somewhere high up but is a jump. Senior kitties may also
being elderly... struggling with his mobility, benefit from raised food and
maybe you can help him ● LITTER TRAYS: provide water bowls.
out by providing a ramp? several litter trays in
easy-to-access locations ● CONSIDER YOUR
● CUSHIONING: many cats (your old cat shouldn’t have FLOORING: laminate, tiled,
lose weight as they age or wooden flooring can
meaning they may
find it more difficult become tricky for your
to get comfortable. elderly cat to walk on and
Their older bones and deep-pile carpets can
become stuck on their

46 Your Cat April 2021 Make sure your cat can
access his litter tray easily.

There are many things to
consider when looking
at your senior cat’s diet.

Top tip!

Place cushions
underneath key
‘jump spots’ should
your wobbly cat
misjudge the jump.

claws. Cut-pile carpet is FEEDING YOUR A SENIOR CAT’S Dkindoywo?u
easiest on your cat’s feet. SENIOR FELINE DIET SHOULD:
If you do have an area of ● Contain high quality Senior cats are
tiled or laminate flooring, You should consider putting protein to reduce muscle predisposed to being
perhaps consider getting your cat onto a senior diet mass loss and support dehydrated. Feeding
a rug to help your kitty. when he reaches 11 years digestion.
old, which is considered ● Include extra vitamin E wet food can help
● SCRATCHING POSTS: the start of the senior years. to strengthen his natural with this.
scratching is a natural (Some manufacturers defences.
behaviour for cats and recommend earlier, so you ● Contain nutrients to Avoid making too
typically cats are vertical may consider a senior diet help with mobility, such as many changes in
scratchers (many are from eight years of age.) glucosamine and free fatty the home as this
horizontal too) as they acids. can be confusing to
like to really stretch up. As previously discussed ● Be palatable (that is a
As your cat gets older, in part one of this series wet/softer consistency) to an older cat.
he may find this natural (March 2021 issue), your accommodate dental or
behaviour (standing on cat goes through a lot digestive issues.▼
his hindlegs, for example) of changes as he enters ● As cats age, their
more difficult, especially if his senior years and this sense of smell and taste
arthritis is setting in. If you all needs to be taken into can fade, so a food with
notice your cat using his consideration when looking a higher meat content
vertical scratching posts at his diet. Be sure to check will definitely be more
less often, why not try out the ingredients list of his attractive to them.
offering a few horizontal food so you know exactly
options? what his diet includes.

● AVOIDING MAJOR Consider
ROOM SWITCH AROUNDS: putting your
senior cats are more cat onto a
prone to hyperthyroidism senior diet
and kidney failure, which
can result in hypertension
that can cause blindness.
Many owners do not
realise their cat has lost
its sight until they move
furniture around and the
cat is bumping into things.
Cats love consistency;
keeping furniture and rug
placement consistent will
help your older cat know
where they are, and stop
them getting confused or
distressed.

www.yourcat.co.uk 47

Senior Kitizens

If your cat is reaching old WHEN CHANGING YOUR Short grooming sessions
age, talk through any diet ELDERLY CAT’S FOOD, IT IS will help keep your
changes with a vet first, as NOT JUST WHAT YOU FEED old cat’s coat in good
many specially formulated TO CONSIDER, BUT HOW condition, especially the
bits he struggles to reach.

senior pet foods are AND WHEN,TOO:

available and your vet will ● Feed little and often,

be able to help you decide and make sure it is served

which is best for your cat’s at room temperature as

needs. they can then smell and

Keep an eye on your taste it properly.
senior cat’s weight too. ● We know that cats are

While the ageing process creatures of habit and

can cause them to lose love routine, so make sure

weight, it can also be a sign you keep their feed times

of an underlying medical consistent and in the

problem.They can also gain same place.
weight due to activity levels ● Keep food bowls

dropping and an overweight separate from water bowls.
cat is also in danger of ● If you have more than

medical complications. It is one cat, you may want

important you know what to feed your older cat

is normal for your cat and separately to ensure he

discuss any issues with your gets his meal.

vet or a vet nurse.

Dkindoywo?u Top tip! Your cat’s routine

It is OK to heat wet Ensure there are As we know, cats thrive on routine and this is even more
food that has been plenty of water bowls so the case when your pet gets older. Keeping their
stored in the fridge in available around routine familiar and something they feel comfortable
the microwave, but the house and offer with will help keep up your cat’s confidence.
only heat to room a variety; some cats ● Try to keep your cat’s daily routine the same including
like shallow, wide feeding times, bed times, and allow them to do the
temperature, bowls, while others things they’re used to, when they’re used to doing it.
never hot. prefer running water. ● If there is going to be something that disrupts their
Experiment to find routine, such as having guests round or workmen in the
what your fussy oldie house, prepare in advance. Make sure the space where
likes best. your cat escapes to is available and make it extra

appealing with treats and toys.
● Make sure your old cat still has fun! He may not be

Make sure your old the hyperactive kitten he once was, but life is still for
living with older cats. Have regular play sessions, enjoy

cat still has fun! snuggles, or teach your cat a trick, whatever your cat is
able to do and will enjoy.

● Grooming: gentle, short grooming sessions will

help keep your cat’s coat in good

Try a horizontal condition and help reach any spots
scratching post he can no longer get to. Many cats
can find being groomed is very
if your cat is relaxing!
struggling to stand ● Keep a diary of pictures and

on his hindlegs

videos of your cat jumping up,

playing, and doing things he loves.

Look back on it regularly so you can

compare with his current behaviour

and spot early signs of any problems

or your cat slowing down.

More info:

For more information on senior cat care,
visit https://www.yourcat.co.uk/cat-advice/
caring-for-an-older-cat/

48 Your Cat April 2021