The Cat magazine, Summer 2009

SUMMER 2009

Pussy cat, pussy cat…

Where have you been?

Of purrs and

prose

Read the winning entries of our writing contest

Say

‘tuna’!

How to take fab photos of your feline friend

Plus Miranda Richardson, harmony in the garden & moggies’ monikers

The Team

Welcome ...to the Summer 2009 issue of The Cat

From left to right

Ryan O'Hara Senior Designer Rasoul Hudda Senior Designer Tom Briggs Assistant Editor Francesca Watson Editor

despite all the uncertainty that the British weather can bring, it’s an excellent

time to get outdoors!

Tom Briggs takes you by the

Pussy cat, puss Where have you

46..&3

y cat…

been?

Of purrs

prose

‘paw’ and leads you through

and

the streets of London on a

Read the win of our writingning entries contest

Cover photo:

Gemma Bather Editorial Assistant

S

ummer is on its way and,

Contacts

monuments and places of

For editorial submissions to the magazine

capital. Top pet photographer secrets of taking that perfect portrait of puss, indoors and

Say

‘tuna’!

How to take fab photos of your feline friend

1MVT

Miranda Rich ardson, harmony in the garden & moggies’ mo nikers

out and we also look at how to ensure your garden can be a safe haven for both cats and wildlife. Graham Clarke keeps us up to date with the summer’s gardening

To book advertising Terry Lock Media Sales, 3 Forest Way, Ashtead, Surrey KT21 1JN Phone: 01372 276 233 Fax: 08707 051 901 Email: tslock@terrylockmediasales.co.uk Advertisements are accepted in good faith and we endeavour to check their accuracy. However, the charity gives no guarantees or endorsements of the products or services advertised. Cats Protection cannot accept responsibility for any correspondence between the parties, nor can they be expected to arbitrate should any dispute arise.

To change your details, become a Special Friend, subscribe, make a donation or become a member of Cats Protection: Supporter Services, Cats Protection, National Cat Centre, Chelwood Gate, Haywards Heath RH17 7TT Email: supporterservices@cats.org.uk Phone: 0800 917 2287

shows around the country and don’t forget that there may be a garden open near you as part of our Paws Outdoors campaign. Many CP branches and adoption centres will be holding tea parties, fêtes, fairs and other fundraising events throughout the summer, so be sure to check what’s on near you – see page 50 for further details.

Many thanks to everyone who entered our short story and poem competition. The winners have been chosen by award-winning author, Shena Mackay, and the successful entries can be read on pages 38-40.

Finally, it is with sorrow that I announce the departure of Gemma Bather our greatly esteemed Editorial Assistant. Gemma is moving on to pastures new and we thank her for her wonderful contributions to The Cat over the past year. She will be missed.

Have a wonderful summer and I hope you and your cat get to enjoy that elusive summer sun!

For all other enquiries: Cats Protection, National Cat Centre (NCC), Chelwood Gate, Haywards Heath RH17 7TT Phone: 08702 099 099 (Calls charged at national rate)

Fax: 08707 708 265 Email: cp@cats.org.uk Web: www.cats.org.uk Published quarterly by Cats Protection.

Printed by Gemini Press Ltd. Printed on paper sourced from carefully-managed and renewed forests.

Please recycle this magazine when you have finished with it

Cats Protection’s vision is to ensure that every cat is given the chance of a life where it will be treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs.

Reg Charity 203644 (England and Wales) and SC037711 (Scotland)

mez

We reserve the right to edit material for clarity or space. Cats Protection is not responsible for the opinions, advice and factual content of contributed items. The views expressed do not necessarily conform to those of the Trustees.

Nick Ridley lets you into the

m/Carole Go

The Editor, The Cat magazine, National Cat Centre, Chelwood Gate, Haywards Heath RH17 7TT Email: editorial@cats.org.uk Web: www.thecat.org.uk

significance of the country’s

istockphoto.co

great day out visiting the feline

Letters STAR LETTER

STICK ‘EM UP! From: Di Singleton, Ilminster, Somerset

W

e were lucky enough to adopt two kittens from Cats Protection’s Yeovil & District Branch three years ago. Diggery and Polly joined our two more mature felines

and Diggery soon became a showman. He sits on his backside and waves his paws in the air, much to the amusement of my students – I teach painting at home. He has done this

Tell us

about it

Do you have an interesting story to tell, a point of view you want to air or something that you just have to get off your chest?

Send your thoughts, views, stories, funny photos and ‘mewsings’ to The Cat magazine, National Cat Centre, Haywards Heath RH17 7TT or email us at editorial@cats.org.uk Don’t forget to tell us your return address and please remember that your letter may be edited for length.

quite spontaneously and now knows it attracts attention, praise and sometimes treats. He even managed his party trick when confined with a badly broken leg, cheerfully waving through the roof of the cage!

In November last year, having lost one of our ‘seniors’, we took on two more kittens.

The two runts born by caesarean had survived against the odds thanks to the expert care of the CP kitten fosterer. At ten weeks, Gloria – I’ll Survive – and Manuka – once

SOCKS APPEAL

the colour of honey, now more marmalade – arrived and took over! Having been hand-

From: Kay Clifton, West Horsley, Surrey

reared, they love company and were soon disrupting classes. They love water and have

I

endless fun flicking at dripping taps and paddling in my painting water, as well as hiding my brushes and pencils.

Polly and Diggery have really accepted the interlopers and Diggery especially likes

was very interested to read about Beth Woodger’s Burmese – The Cat, Winter

2008. Our own Burmese, Chloe, will be 13 this year but when she was a lot younger

playing tag and tumbling with them. Thanks Cats Protection for hours of fun and

she appeared on Pet Rescue as a problem

amusement, not to mention ‘time wasting’!

for their vet. She too, bit perfect circles into wool and cotton clothes – and a tablecloth. She also loved to bite through string and wire but fortunately not mains cables. At first, our daughter got blamed for ruining her thick, white school gym socks until we finally realised who the culprit was. The vet gave us no realistic advice so we all suddenly became very tidy, putting clothes out of reach and shutting doors, to keep temptation out of sight. I can tell Beth that Chloe did outgrow the habit of biting cloth, but she will still bite through wire if given the opportunity, such as fishing line stretched over the garden pond to keep herons off – the herons are another story entirely.

With regards to food, she will not eat anything other than Hill’s Science Diet or freshly caught mice garnished with catmint. She is the first cat we have ever had where it has been safe to leave a carved joint uncovered or put out a buffet meal without having to stand guard! Our best wishes to Beth and her mother Carol for continued good health.

‘Diggery pokery’? The real entertainer and Di’s brilliant painting of him

yourletters

SLEEPY HEAD! From: Shirley Banham, North Harrow, London

H

as anyone ever owned, or even seen, a cat sleep like this? She puts her face between her front paws, rests the top of her head

on the floor and then sleeps like this for hours, rather like a prawn!

She had been living rough for some time when I took her in – is this position just a stray’s ‘self-preservation’ to keep her warm or has she done this since kittenhood? I’ve been involved in cat welfare work for many years but have never seen another cat adopt this position.

NO CAT BURGLARS HERE! From: Ruth Bishop, Waltham Abbey, Essex

“

Miaou, miaou!” not the normal vocal sounds from our docile, feline friends at 3am. They were persistent in the

fact that we should get up. Normally sleeping on our bed, we were surprised to find them on the window ledge making such a racket, sounding and looking very angry and lined up like bookends.

Note from the Editor:

No amount of talking and coaxing would get them down,

That certainly is

so we got up and put the light on; they immediately got onto

a strange way to

the bed and starting purring, acting how they ‘normally ‘

sleep! We actually

would. Strange, we thought, but not a murmur all night

included a similar

after that.

picture of a cat

The next day we awoke to find our garage had been

named Spice a

robbed and our bikes taken. The putting on of the light had

couple of years ago

obviously frightened them away or, goodness knows, would

– The Cat, Summer

they have tried the house? Insurance claims never ask about

2007. Are there any

guard cats, only dogs, perhaps they should start dropping

more ‘sleepy heads’

premium prices if you have a cat or two?

out there?

MALTESE MOGGIES From: Maureen Griffin, Harrogate, North Yorkshire

H

aving spent a week in Malta last October, I thought I would let you know how well stray cats – and dogs – are treated there. Apparently the Government there funds a

full neutering and rehoming programme for all strays and we saw this firsthand while at our hotel.

My husband is disabled and suffers with progressive MS, so getting around the resort was not very easy. However, we met Janet Woodman who works from the hotel and, having heard about my love of cats, she showed us a mother cat and six five-week-old

A PRIZE FOR EVERY LETTER! Our Star Letter wins a fantastic Willow’s Cata-Sphere Cat Bed made from natural banana leaf. It comes complete with cotton cushion and will give your cat a cocoon of cosiness in which to snooze the day away!

kittens in the grounds of the hotel. I was in my element smuggling the remains of my chicken, beef etc from the restaurant after dinner to keep mum fit and healthy as she was obviously still feeding the little ones.

We kept in touch with Janet upon our return to the UK and learned there had been a violent thunderstorm the week after our departure during which Janet had taken Mum and kittens home with her.

Janet kindly sent me photographs when they were about eight weeks old – with the good news that they had all been rehomed to responsible and caring new owners.

Perhaps we could all try to persuade our local councils to run similar neutering programmes rather than see the extensive number of strays around – now more so than ever with the current economic situation.

These Maltese moggies have a bright future ahead of them

All other printed letters will win one of these Willow Bags of Fun sets of toys which should keep your moggy amused for hours.

Our thanks to Pets at Home for kindly sponsoring these prize; visit www.petsathome.com to see their full range of products or telephone 08701 943 600 for more information.

NO LONGER IN A FLAP

IN SEARCH OF KITTY LITERATURE

From: Kate Richards, Brackley, Northamptonshire

I

n response to the letter from Hilary Joyce published in the Spring 2009 edition of The Cat, we too were having many unwanted visitors through the cat flap.

From: Miss P J Austin, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

My cat, Charlie, was missing out on food and finding his home being invaded.

P

One cat even had the audacity to curl up in his spot on the sofa!

Charlie does not and will not wear a collar, so I really was at a loss what to do

lease could you print a request to readers of The Cat for the words of the poem, Where

because we essentially had an open house. This was until a friend of ours told us

the kittens go? This was mentioned in a Cats

about a super cat flap that works from the microchip in your pet’s neck. Without a

Protection magazine many years ago, but only by

doubt it is the best purchase I have ever made and, once Charlie was programmed

its title. I have asked locally and among my ‘catty’

to it, no other cat could come in – hurrah! Charlie is now much happier and I am

acquaintances but to no avail. I would be grateful

no longer feeding the neighbourhood!

for any help.

BOBBY’S LEGEND LIVES ON From: Janine Genade, Cape Town, South Africa

I

live in Simon’s Town, close to Cape Point in Cape Town, South Africa. I am the general manager of a lodge,

restaurant and curio shop that is situated at the entrance to Boulders Beach – home of the African penguins. We have about 2,500 of them living right on our doorstep; we have penguins in our car park, in our garden – just about everywhere! Thousands of tourists come from all over the world to visit our town, see the penguins and sometimes swim with them as well. Since 2001 we have had a blackCharlie is much more relaxed now...

and-white cat called Bobby living in the shop, restaurant and lodge – wherever he felt like spending the day. He was featured in the Summer 2005 edition of The Cat and again in the Spring 2007 issue.

POISONOUS PLANT WARNING

Taunton in Somerset who was a visitor to the area and

From: Angela Canning, Heacham, Norfolk

had fallen in love with Bobby, like so many other tourists.

I

n The Cat magazine last year – Spring 2008 – there was an article entitled The

Many of them would say that they were missing their own

plant blacklist. How true it was to say that lilies are dangerous to cats. Last

cats back home and Bobby helped fill that gap with his

May our dear little cat Snowy returned home twice covered in vivid yellow lily pollen which he had brushed against in somebody else’s garden. We washed him thoroughly, but alas, it was too late. He had ingested it.

Two days later we were horrified to see him try to walk and be hurled violently

Both articles were sent in by a Mrs Angela King, from

unconditional love for everyone and everything.

Bobby Cat became a legend in the area and had a fan club around the world; he received many gifts and cards from all of his fans, especially at Christmas. Sadly, he

to the ground each time, as if he had suffered a stroke. We took him to the vet

passed away on 7 January 2009. The vet estimated that he

who discovered that his kidneys, heart and brain were seriously affected. Soon

was 20 years old. Many of his adoring fans were from the

after, his fur began to fall out and his skin was covered in red blotches. After

UK and I thought that fellow readers would like to know

extensive treatment he could not be saved and was put to sleep. We had not even

of his passing.

had him for one year.

That same week we were surprised to notice stickers on bouquets in Tesco, warning that lilies were poisonous to cats. How considerate of nurserymen to warn the public of the dangers! This is a plea to all kind gardeners: lilies will soon be in bloom again, so please could you replace them with some other plant – something harmless – to prevent this ever happening again?

Note from the Editor: Many garden plants are toxic to cats. Plants to avoid include all types of lily (Lilium), Lily of the Valley (Convarallia majalis), Monkshood (Aconitum), Spurge (Euphorbia) and Foxglove (Digitalis). Garden centres usually label plants that are harmful to humans and, as a rule, these will also be harmful to cats. Providing your cat with a good source of Cocksfoot grass in the garden can help as it means he is less likely to chew on other – potentially harmful – plants.

For a full list of dangerous plants, phone Cats Protection’s Helpline on 08702 099 099 or email helpline@cats.org.uk

Bobby will be missed by tourists and penguins alike

Cats’ tales Funny, weird, or just plain photogenic; this is the place to show off your cat for the remarkable creature he is. If you think you’ve got a cat who deserves his 15 minutes of fame then write to us, at Cats’ Tales, The Cat magazine, National Cat Centre, Chelwood Gate, Haywards Heath RH17 7TT including a photo.

iiBingo’s in the house!

Tom Hall of Southport, Merseyside took pity on this young fellow when he was spotted lurking timidly in his garden as a kitten. Tom began regularly leaving food out for him and, bit by bit, the kitten – now named Bingo – grew in confidence until eventually he dared to venture inside the house. The local vet explained that Bingo may never be fully ‘domesticated’ due to having once lived wild, but the Hall family have taken Bingo to their hearts and can’t imagine being without him.

iiDotty about Teddy Richard and Fiona Dodd from Upminster, Essex adopted Dotty nearly nine years ago with another cat that sadly passed away last year. The Dodds were worried that Dotty would never have the courage to accept a new cat in the house, but having adopted Teddy at the end of 2008 they were delighted to be proved wrong! Teddy has shown himself to be a real gentleman and, despite being twice Dotty’s weight, he lets her eat first and even permits an occasional kiss on the cheek! Richard and Fiona tell us that adopting cats has been one of the best decisions of their lives.

hh A rose by any other name Mark and Tara Coates of Newtownards, Co Down adopted Gypsy from our Northern Ireland Adoption Centre last year when she was six months old and renamed her Rose. Their concerns about how she would cope with their dog, Muffin, proved unfounded as Rose has made it clear that she is the boss and Muffin seems content to abide by her rules. She keeps a close eye on the weather and seems to think that if it’s raining at the back door, she should check the front door and see if it’s raining there too! Her favourite game is ‘Boo’ which she plays on the stairs with Mark and Tara’s son, Christopher.

readers’cats gg Pretty Polly Polly was adopted from Cats Protection in 2001 by Anne and Keith Watson of Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire and ever since she has allowed them to live with her and attend to her every need! She loves sunning herself in the garden and was doing just that three years ago when she was attacked by a dog; her front leg was so badly broken that it had to be amputated. Although this was a traumatic time for all concerned, it has reinforced Polly’s position within the family as ‘She Who Must Be Spoilt!’

Anne and Keith tell us that she is positively thriving on all the attention and fuss.

jjGood golly, Master Molly!

Nineteen-year-old Molly is a prime example of a CP golden oldie! Five years ago he was taken in by our Horncastle & District Branch when his owner was going through a difficult time and could no longer care for him. He was adopted by Kathleen Bellworthy from Bristol who tells us that, despite Molly having to cope with a series of health problems, he is still going strong and living life to the full.

The whole family loves him to bits, even the newest recruit, a German Shepherd named Hally.

iiI want to be… a tree!

Tonto loves the great outdoors and is an avid tree hugger!

He was adopted from our Exeter Axhayes Adoption Centre

by Pippa and James Smith from Exmouth, Devon who say that, despite having only one eye, Tonto copes with life just fine. He is very loving and mischievous, adores mud and often traipses muddy paw prints all through the house as well as bringing in bits of tree that get caught up in his big, bushy tail!

Don’t forget, Cats’ Tales is sponsored by Felix so, if your cat gets onto this page, you’ll receive a month’s supply of delicious Felix pouches from the As Good As It Looks range*. Your furry friend will find it irresistible at every mealtime.

Felix As Good As It Looks is available in eight flavours, you will find them at your local supermarket or pet store. For more information log onto www.catslikefelix.co.uk *please note that pouches can only be delivered to a UK address.

Sponsored by

Playing de A day in the life of a cat behaviour counsellor

Is your cat busy doing nothing? Vicky Halls investigates... eeing cases as a cat behaviour counsellor

S

Any successful ‘behaviour modification programme’ – the tool

is not simply about focusing on a specific

of the pet behaviour counsellor – needs to address this problem by

problem and attempting to fix it. Every

encouraging the cat to indulge in positive ‘hard-wired’ behaviour,

possible aspect of the individual’s lifestyle needs

such as the innate drive to hunt. Incorporating this type of activity

to be explored to establish why a cat behaves

into a programme, focused on identifying and removing stress

in a particular way. Social relationships, diet,

triggers, has a two-fold effect: it shows how well the programme is

environment, activity levels, toilet habits, medical

working by monitoring the cat’s willingness to indulge in frivolous

history and any other little idiosyncrasies have to

fun and provides him with mental and physical exercise that has a

be put under the microscope to determine what

significant positive impact on his sense of wellbeing.

makes a cat tick.

Cats that display unacceptable or ‘problem’ behaviour are invariably suffering from chronic stress or anxiety. One very common consequence of this is inactivity, as the individual shuts down in a state of emotional inertia. If a cat feels that visiting the favourite sunny patch at the bottom of the garden will anger the nasty neighbourhood tom, then the most obvious solution is not to go there and remain indoors out of harm’s way.

Cats will often feign sleep to avoid difficult social situations or fill the void of time with safe predictable behaviour such as eating or grooming.

It is no coincidence that many stressed cats either eat too much, sleep for prolonged periods or over-groom.

Toned athlete or couch potato?

It isn’t just stressed cats that need their activity levels monitored.

A sedentary lifestyle leads to weight gain and potential health issues in the future, so every owner should encourage their cats to move about and get excited by their environment. Bored cats get frustrated and this can ultimately lead to stress, anxiety and depression if left untreated. Maybe it’s worth asking yourself a few searching questions, such as: UÊ

Is my cat as playful as he used to be?

UÊ

Am I encouraging him to play often enough?

UÊ

When did I last buy or make him a toy?

UÊ

Is he going outside as often as he used to?

If the answers steer you towards the conclusion that your cat is becoming a couch potato, then now is the time to act.

Play away!

Vicky Halls is a registered Veterinary Nurse and has worked closely with cats since 1988 in rescue centres and veterinary practices.

She started seeing behavioural cases whilst managing a veterinary practice and in 1995 was invited by Dr Peter Neville to work on his behalf as an associate of his practice. In 1998 she became a member of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors and now consults mainly in London and the Home Counties dealing with the high demand for her specialist cat behaviour counselling.

Cats love to play; they naturally catch prey so anything that mimics their natural hunting behaviour is going to be fun. You can encourage this type of activity by playing games with your cat that fall into two distinct categories: interactive and solitary.

The interactive toys include wands or ‘fishing’ rods with string attached, ribbon, shoelaces, wool, twigs, feathers or anything that can be dragged or waved that encourages your cat to chase. The solitary toys need to be sufficiently exciting to motivate your cat to play with them alone. Items of rubbish often fit the bill: screwed up paper, tissue, tin foil or plastic lids can be more exciting than anything purchased from a pet shop. Paper bags and cardboard boxes are great exploratory opportunities for the curious cat,

Vicky is a member of FAB’s Feline Behaviour Expert Panel and

particularly if it’s just been brought indoors and is therefore

the author of the bestselling Cat Confidential, Cat Detective,

covered in novel smells. This concept of something ‘new’ to explore

The Complete Cat and Cat Counsellor.

is certainly the key; all your cat’s toys should be kept hidden away

For more information see Vicky’s website at www.vickyhalls.net

– with a little catnip added for those susceptible to its charms – and brought out randomly to maintain their attraction.

healthcheck

detective…

Playtime? It’s in the bag

Cats would naturally spend up to six hours a day hunting prey. Most pet cats receive predictable quantities of food in predictable locations at the same time every day and the consumption of that food can take as little as two or three minutes. If this level of activity to acquire food is compared to the natural hunting method, it potentially leaves a huge amount of spare time to fill with other activities. Unfortunately it’s the easiest thing in the world to fill that void with sleep or, in the case of my feline patients, worrisome thoughts and stresses.

In the pursuit of anything that enriches a cat’s life, I am a great campaigner to ‘abandon the food bowl’ when owners feed dry kibble.

Foraging for dry biscuits using puzzle feeders can perk up bored cats and enable them to experience a sense of achievement.

There are commercially available puzzle feeders on the market but utilising everyday rubbish and a quick Blue Peter moment can achieve the same goal.

Suggestions include: UÊ

Commercial puzzle feeders, such as SlimCatTM, PipolinoTM and Animal Club Malcolm Mouse Treat Toy

UÊ

Cardboard egg boxes – a few kibble in each egg section will require some paw dexterity to remove

UÊ

Paper bags – a few kibble at the bottom with the top folded over can be a challenge

UÊ

Cardboard toilet roll tubes – attached to each other to form a triangle of connected tubes, encouraging the cat to extract individual kibble from each tube with his paw

Some cats resist attempts to change when it comes to feeding routines but it’s worth persevering as, once hooked, cats seem to love the sense of a challenge.

A daily constitutional Playing and food foraging are only part of the story. Your cat should be taking a real interest in his surroundings but this can wane a little for a number of different reasons. If a cat gets out of the habit of spending time outdoors or just feels safer inside, he is missing out on a great deal of fun activity. If you think your cat feels vulnerable outside due to the presence of an assertive newcomer, for example, you may still be able to tempt him into the garden with a few minor adjustments, such as: UÊ

Making a point of going out every day – weather permitting – and playing with him outside

UÊ

Not leaving any food outside or feeding birds as this might encourage other cats into the garden and further deter your own cat from being adventurous

UÊ

Chasing other cats from the garden when you see them – shout, clap or even squirt a water pistol if they are particularly persistent

UÊ

Considering securing your garden to keep other cats out – various systems are available on the internet or you can view the Feline Advisory Bureau’s factsheet ‘fencing in your garden’ on www.fabcats.org

UÊ

Planting shrubs and introducing potted plants to give your cat more camouflage to survey the area without being seen

UÊ

Giving him a tall perch outside. A shed with an accessible roof is

Photo: Vicky Halls

great, but if you don’t have a similar structure in your garden you may wish to invest in an outdoor modular cat climbing frame, for

Mangus – Vicky’s own cat – foraging for her food

example see www.catplay-stations.com Hopefully this has given you a few creative ideas to keep your cat busy.

Don’t forget, the devil makes work for idle paws!

Photo: istockphoto.com/Cynthia Balbauf Images

Feeding can be fun

The experts Maggie Roberts BVM&S MRCVS After qualifying at Edinburgh University in

Ask the

Every issue, CP’s team of veterinary experts will be tackling your

1986, Maggie went on to work primarily in private practice with some time spent abroad. Maggie first worked for Cats

Our 14-year-old cat, Charlie, lost her voice just after Christmas 2007 but seemed otherwise fit and well. Her vet didn’t know what to suggest and said that we could ask for a referral “if we wanted to”. Not wanting to stress Charlie

Protection as Veterinary Officer from 1997-

unnecessarily, we took her home with a course of antibiotics. Over the next few weeks

99; her interest in feline medicine brought

she became wheezy so we returned to the vet, only to be given the same inconclusive

her back to the charity as Head of Veterinary

response and more antibiotics. In early May 2008, she began to experience difficulty

Services in 2006. She has three cats, Trevor,

breathing so we pushed for a referral and Charlie was admitted for tests under general

Frankie and Ronnie.

anaesthetic. She was found to have a cancerous tumour in her throat – squamous cell carcinoma – requiring surgery. The operation was a clinical success but, sadly, Charlie

Beth Skillings

died two days later. We have since learned that squamous cell carcinoma is relatively

BVSc MRCVS

common in cats – why did it take Charlie’s vet so long to reach this diagnosis?

Beth qualified

Liz and Barry Neild, via email

at the University of Liverpool in

It is very difficult for us to make any comments regarding Charlie’s specific condition

1998 and then

as we were not in a position to examine her or access her medical history. We would

went on to

recommend that you speak to the vet who took care of her and express your

work in general

concerns over her diagnosis and treatment as they should be able to give you more

veterinary

information on their specific care of Charlie.

practice until

We would always recommend that owners be guided by their vet, who will look at the

2005 when she joined Cats Protection as

individual situation and give the options available for diagnosis and treatment of the

Head of Veterinary Services. After proposing

condition, according to their professional opinion. It is important to make sure that owners’

and developing a significant growth to the

concerns are voiced to the vet, particularly if you are worried about the treatment and

veterinary department, Beth moved into

diagnosis of Charlie or if you feel that she didn’t seem to be improving.

a new role as Clinical Veterinary Officer in

There are a number of conditions that may cause a cat’s voice to change, including

November 2006. Beth has two CP cats, Starsky

infection or inflammation of the throat. These are by far the most common cause of

and Vincent.

change in voice, so medication is likely to be offered with this type of case and then further investigation will be considered if there has been no significant improvement. Squamous cell

Vanessa Howie

carcinomas are one of the more serious possibilities but a definite diagnosis would involve

BVetMed MRCVS

a general anaesthetic and biopsy of the area. This is an invasive procedure and would

Vanessa

generally only be recommended on the professional judgement of the attending vet when

graduated

deciding which tests and treatment would be in the individual cat’s best interest. Neither

from the Royal

the anaesthetic nor the biopsy are without risk, particularly in elderly cats with potential

Veterinary

breathing problems and such options will always be considered when assessing the most

College,

appropriate way to manage a case. The vet will consider the risks of the procedure to avoid

London in 2000

the equally tragic situation when a cat undergoes anaesthesia and tests for a disorder that

and spent six

proves to be minor, but sadly complications occur. Thank you for warning us about Charlie’s

years working

condition and please accept our sincere condolences for your loss. MR

in general practice before joining Cats Protection as Field Veterinary Officer. Her

I have a 16-year-old female tabby and although she has had some health

interests include feline medicine and surgery

problems she is still going strong. Unfortunately she moults a great deal and

and overseas charity work. Vanessa has two

her skin is quite flaky, almost as if she has dandruff. Is there anything that

cats, Tilly and Mabel, adopted from our own

you can recommend that would treat her skin to stop the flaking?

Bridgend Adoption Centre.

Louise Bright, Towcester, Northamptonshire If your cat is otherwise healthy and your vet has ruled out any other possible

Veterinary surgeons have provided the advice on these pages, but for specific cases and health concerns, it is important that you consult your own vet who will be able to look at your cat’s history and do a clinical examination.

cause, it is highly likely that the reason for her excessive moulting and dandruff is related to her age. Often as cats get older, as with other animals and humans, they find it more difficult and possibly uncomfortable to groom themselves, resulting in what seems like an increase in dandruff and moult.

healthcheck

vets…

Have you got a question?

Send your questions to ‘Ask The Vets’, The Cat magazine, National Cat Centre, Chelwood Gate, Haywards Heath, RH17 7TT or email: editorial@cats.org.uk

feline-related questions…

There are a few things that you can do to help this condition:

UÊ If your cat is overweight, a careful weight loss program will not only

You may wish to discuss what further investigations your vet feels may be useful, or whether they would want to refer Binky to a veterinary skin

help her ability to groom all parts of her body, but also will put less

specialist to try to determine the best approach to treatment. If the vet

stress on her joints

feels that there may be a stress component, referral to a behaviourist

UÊ Ensure that you are feeding her a good-quality complete and balanced

may also be beneficial to find out whether any adjustments can be made

diet, which should supply her with all the nutrients needed to have a

at home – often what seem like the smallest of changes can make a big

healthy skin and coat. Your vet should advise whether your cat requires

difference to a cat’s stress levels.

further dietary supplements, over and above her diet, designed to assist

I wish we could throw more light on the problem, but it is impossible to

with skin and coat condition. Essential fatty acid supplements can be

guess what might be the cause of the skin disorder or the right treatment

of great benefit in reducing the amount of dandruff and generally

and would recommend you go back to your vet and discuss how

improving the condition of a cat’s skin

concerned you are about Binky’s current quality of life. BS

UÊ If your cat seems to find grooming uncomfortable, speak with your vet who may be able to advise whether your cat would benefit from

My cat has an annoying habit of using her litter tray within

medication to help with any possible age or injury-related discomfort

minutes of my settling into bed. Just when I’m getting

affecting movement

UÊ Finally, you may have to give your cat a little extra help by gently grooming her with a soft rubber brush, which will assist with removing dead hair and dandruff and also help to massage the skin. Most cats will enjoy this interaction with their owners, however if you find that

comfortable, an unpleasant odour wafts under the bedroom door. Why does she choose this particular time and how does one get a cat to change its time of toileting?

Jean Cooper, Dunfermline, Fife

she seems a little uncomfortable in particular areas, or if the issue

Toileting behaviour is specific to each individual cat and is

doesn’t improve after a few weeks, do report this to your vet. VH

related to the cat’s own bowel transit time, diet, timing of feeding, water intake, activity levels and access to a suitable

My cat, Binky, developed ringworm and although she is

toileting site at a time when the cat feels relaxed and unthreatened by

clear of it now, there still seems to be a skin irritation which

noise, other cats or any other potential stressors.

causes her to over-groom until some areas are raw and bleeding. Can you offer any advice to help an unhappy little cat?

Audrey Bull, Saundersfoot, Pembrokeshire

It can be difficult to modify the cat’s chosen time and to try to do so could potentially cause stress and risk inappropriate toileting behaviour, such as spraying in the house or toileting away from the litter tray.

However, you could try very gradually adjusting the times that you

Skin disorders can be very frustrating for cats, their owners and

feed your cat if she does not currently have free access to food. Also,

their vets if the underlying cause cannot easily be determined or

ensuring that she has access to suitable toileting sites during the day

treated. Over-grooming or irritation of skin areas in cats can be

may help. Individual cats have preferences for different types of litter,

caused by a range of different problems – and sometimes a combination

often depending on what they became familiar with as young kittens, so

of more than one problem – including:

offering access to a range of litters may help, but don’t change the variety

UÊ infectious causes – eg bacterial or fungal infections such as ringworm or

of litter suddenly. The location of litter trays is also very important, so

yeast infections

UÊ parasitic causes – eg fleas, harvest mites or ear mites UÊ hypersensitivity disorders – such as food intolerances or dust mite allergies

UÊ defects in the surface layer of the skin UÊ hormone disorders UÊ sun damage UÊ disorders of the immune system UÊ urinary tract disease UÊ pain elsewhere in the body UÊ stress If Binky’s vet feels that the ringworm may not have been shaken off

ensure that she can access them without having to pass anything that may threaten her, such as other pets. It is also important to position them in quiet areas away from doorways, windows or cat flaps through which she may see other cats that may stress her, but again make any changes very gradually.

Try to look at the routine that leads up to your cat using the tray – it sounds as though lights are turned out and the house becomes quiet before she chooses to use the tray, so perhaps try replicating this for a period earlier in the evening. It may also be that she has her greatest activity levels at night time, so encouraging her to play earlier in the evening may encourage her to toilet earlier.

Please bear in mind that your cat may be happy with her current

following treatment, they may wish to investigate whether she has any

toileting arrangements and attempts to change them could cause her to

underlying problem affecting her immune system. Without being able

toilet inappropriately which may not then be easily rectified, affecting

to examine her or undertake further investigations, it is very difficult to

both your and her happiness. BS

comment on what may be causing Binky to over-groom and make her skin sore.

Make a little in your soul W

atching wildlife enjoying your garden is a delightful pleasure for both humans and felines and the love of both species need not be mutually exclusive. Our domestic cats will always have the inherent

desire to exhibit hunting behaviour and, as cat owners, we have to accept this but we can take steps to control this predatory nature and encourage more appropriate and positive play. With some practical steps regarding cat and garden, you can provide a welcome retreat for all comers to your backyard.

The first step to reducing predation is to keep your cat indoors at night when birds and small mammals are at their most vulnerable. It is preferable that they remain indoors at least an hour before sunset and an hour after sunrise to allow nocturnal mammals to retreat home and for birds to feed.

Some believe that the more birds you attract to your garden, the greater the risk to their safety from predators, but according to a survey in 1997 conducted by the Mammal Society, it was found that the number of birds brought home per cat was significantly lower in households that provided food for birds. The more eyes watching mean a predator is far more likely to be spotted.

Food for thought It is best to feed birds from high bird tables and away from surfaces from which a cat could pounce. A thin, metal shepherd’s hook makes for a great feed holder and your cat will not be able to climb up towards the feeding birds. The wooden posts of bird tables can be made slippery and impossible to climb by placing a piece of drainpipe or cut-up water bottles around them. Just make sure there are no sharp edges that could harm a cat determined to give it a go!

Try not to leave food on the ground where feeding wildlife will be more vulnerable to attack, but if you have a ground feeder you can assemble a dome of chicken wire around it. Fruit such as apples can be pronged on tree branches for the blackbirds and thrushes. If you leave out food for foxes or hedgehogs that would be just as attractive to your cat; try and place this well away from where the birds feast.

Positioning Prickly plants such as berberis, pyracantha or hawthorn placed near the base of a feeding station make for an uncomfortable settling place for a cat. Just ensure it doesn’t give the cat enough cover to stalk from. The berries from these plants can provide birds with a food source and their thorny branches allow for secure nesting sites.

Photo: istockphoto.com/Vladislav Vladimirov

The anti-catnip of plants is said to be Coleus canina which is an attractive grey-green foliage plant with blue flowers in summer. Its scent is one that cats and dogs tend to avoid. A similar plant is the Helichrysum italicum, sometimes known as the curry plant. These could be planted around feeding places for birds and, perhaps, areas in which unwelcome visiting cats tend to make an entrance.

Nesting boxes should be placed where cats are unable to settle close by. If in a tree, place these away from any nearby branches where a cat could sit. If attached to a fence, plastic spiked strips can be placed along the length above the box. These measures will help stop a cat getting too near; worrying the birds or preventing the parents from entering. Ensuring that the box lid is secure can also assist in deterring squirrels from raiding the nest.

feature

birdhouse Francesca Watson investigates the available options of improving that delicate relationship between cat and wildlife

Out of bounds There are motion-activated deterrents that can be connected to your hose pipe, emitting a jet of water when sensing the heat or movement of a passing cat. One important point to remember, however, is that the protected zone can extend quite far and could prevent your cat from enjoying his own garden!

There are several odour deterrents but most, it seems, have a limited effectiveness once the great British element of rain is added to the equation. Some are based on cats’ dislike of citrus smells. Orange and lemon peel can keep cats at bay and Citronella, a commercially available essential oil, can also be dotted around areas where cats are not welcome. However, you can purchase plastic rods which are impregnated with Citronella which would bypass the weather problem and last for several weeks. As with all oils, ensure that your cat cannot ingest it, as it can prove toxic.

Lion dung pellets are fêted by some and for those who aren’t best pals with the local zoo’s big cat keeper you can buy these at most garden centres. The pellets are scattered in the areas you want to protect. A similar option is chicken dung but, again, rain can reduce any dung’s effectiveness.

Hearing is believing Bells on cat collars have been disputed as an effective deterrent but a survey from the RSPB states that a correctly fitted collar and bell can reduce cat predation by a third or more – 34 per cent fewer mammals and 41 per cent fewer birds.

Claire Bessant, Chief Executive of the Feline Advisory Bureau (FAB), adds: “Only a small proportion of cats develop the 3D skills necessary to catch adult birds. Giving these cats a collar with a bell to wear will help save birds but, for the safety of the cat, make sure that it is a quick-release collar that snaps open if it gets caught on a branch. ”It needs to be firmly fitted so that the cat cannot pull one leg through or it is loose enough to catch on things. You should be able to fit two fingers snugly between your cat’s collar and his neck. If in doubt about collar fitting, ask your vet for advice. Always check if your cat is still growing – or putting on weight – so that the collar does not get too tight.” Another use of bells could be to tie some to the branches of your hedges or along the tops of fences, giving an extra warning to birds and wildlife of a stealthy feline approach.

A patch of earth to call my own You may want to consider dedicating a corner in your garden specifically for your cat away from your wildlife feeding or nesting areas. In this space you could plant all those ‘cat-friendly’ plants such as catnip (Nepeta cataria), mint, cat thyme (Teucrium marum) and lavender. A patch of unmowed grass can provide a soft bed and also that requisite roughage to help cough up furballs. Plants – without thorns – can be placed to give your cat a shady spot to lie in during those hot and sunny days while logs provide excellent great diversion.

To allow for your cat’s natural hunting instinct you can scatter some of his dry food in the safe areas of your garden to encourage him to seek it out. Puzzle feeders and dry food placed in toilet rolls will also provide great entertainment for your cat and can help distract him from his nearby feathered friends. Cats are often inspired to hunt by movement. Interactive play with moving toys, such as fishing rods, helps a cat to exhibit his natural behaviour, reducing his desire to seek out such behaviour elsewhere.

Nature is a joy to behold and, with some forethought, the garden can be a place where cats and wildlife enjoy a much more peaceful coexistence.

Photo: istockphoto.com/wrkdesign

outdoor scratching posts. Short ribbons tied securely to low branches of a tree can be a

Winning

words

Announcing the results of our latest writing competition…

“He blinked.

Movement.

A straggle of men approaching.

Unsteady.

Dirty.

Boots caked in mud.”

W

e are very pleased to announce the winners of this year’s writing competition as Pam Brown from Newton Abbott, Devon with her short story 1916 and Alan Hill from Trinity,

Edinburgh with his poem Evening Class. Congratulations to Pam and Alan whose entries are printed here and who each win a Hewlett Packard laptop.

The two runners-up were Jeff Nottingham from Kilburn, London with his short story Harvey and Carolyn King from Ventnor, Isle of Wight with her poem The Mouse Whisperer – well done to both of them, their entries will be included in the Autumn issue of The Cat. A big thank you to everyone who entered, once again we were overwhelmed by the high standard of the entries we received and the generosity of all those who sent in accompanying donations which totalled well over £2,500. A special thank you also goes out to Shena Mackay, our expert judge who had the tough job of choosing the overall winners. “Each of the entries had something special,” said Shena, “brilliant observation, humour, pathos – and they all illustrate and celebrate the unique relationship of cats and humans.”

If your story or poem isn’t mentioned here then don’t dismay, log on to www.thecat.org.uk to see The Best of the Rest a roundup of our favourite shortlisted entries.

The winners!

Short story category First prize: 1916 by Pam Brown from Newton Abbott, Devon Runner-up: Harvey by Jeff Nottingham from Kilburn, London

Poetry category First prize: Evening Class by Alan Hill from Trinity, Edinburgh Runner-up: The Mouse Whisperer by Carolyn King from Ventnor, Isle of Wight Highly commended: The Gift by Melanie Banner from Dorking, Surrey

feature

1916

by Pam Brown Cat sat on the ruined wall and watched the road. No sign of life.

Nothing as he remembered. His people gone. The kitchen where there had been warmth and left-overs from the table a blackened shell. The barn destroyed. The great tree fallen.

At first there had been chickens, but lately only rats – and they were thinner.

He blinked. Movement. A straggle of men approaching. Unsteady.

Dirty. Boots caked in mud.

And here they were, turning in at what had been the gate. Flinging themselves down in the shadow of his wall.

Sensible men. Downing their packs, their rifles, rousing themselves.

Gathering up the shattered timber, making a fire.

“Look here. I’ve found a kettle.”

Cat, wary, had shifted to a stack of rubble – but one man spotted him.

“Good grief – a moggy. Come on then fellow. Let’s have a look at you.”

No language that he knew, but kind. He edged closer. Felt a hand gentling his fur. Mustered a rusty purr.

That night he dined on a slice of bully beef – and that he remembered from past times, when young men had ceased their singing, halted their march and crowded into the busy yard, smiling,

“Don’t worry, they’ll come and get us soon. Sam – how’s your leg?

Wait and I’ll change the dressing. Bill, see what you can scrounge.”

Two days of peace. Dry. Thin sunlight. Talk of baths and feather beds, of beer and Blighty. Unfamiliar words but Cat knew they were of comfortable, wished-for things.

After the tumult that had overturned his life, after the roar and blast and terror and confusion there had been a sort of silence. No birds. No voices. A distant rumbling, but nothing more. The day before these men came there had been a flurry of vicious sound and Cat had been afraid – but now the outer silence held, made cheerful by the clink of pots and the men talking.

Until the Wednesday morning.

“Gor blimey, Ted. I swear those guns are nearer.”

Cat crouched in his corner, alongside Bill, his friend. Supplier of stew and scratchings behind the ears. Listened to the growling of the barrage, and now the whine of shell fire. Shuddered, huddled closer.

They found the range just after noon. Heaven knows what they thought their target. The jag tooth of the chimney. A wisp of camp fire smoke. An eager lieutenant gingering his gun crew.

Nowhere to run. Nowhere to hide. An enemy beyond the range of rifle fire.

The end came suddenly. The ground shook and the world exploded.

trying to exchange a few words with his people. And traded bully beef

Brick and stone and plaster blown to dust. And the young men

for eggs.

sprawled in the debris, as if in awkward sleep.

One man had taken time to stroke him, uncertain as he was. Talked to him in the same language. Smoothed his fur before he marched away.

And now – a bit of biscuit and a lick of white stuff from a tin. Sweet

Cat’s friend lay stretched out beside the ashes of the fire. Cat touched his face but could not wake him.

Licked up the spilled stew. Limped to the road. Time to go. He had no notion where – anywhere but here.

and sticky. Not much, but welcome.

He lay down beside his friend and slept by the remnants of the fire.

Morning came, a chill in the air and misty. The small camp stirred to life. They were a good lot these men, but seemed uneasy. The one with the stripes on his sleeves made encouraging sounds.

Illustration: Rasoul Hudda

Evening Class

by Alan Hill “Tonight,” I said, “I’d like you to try writing something about an animal….” the topic we’d been talking about the week before, in “Structured Discussion”.

The others began, but Rab sat still for a moment or two, then looked at me, and shaking his head said rather sadly, “I cannae.”

“But Rab,” I said brightly, “remember last week, you were talking about a cat you once had – was it Lucy you called her?

“Aye,” he said, and he looked relieved.

“D’ye mean aboot her?”

“Yes,” I said, “and the things she did – “ “D’ye mean,” he said, “like when she climbed into that holly tree, and went tae sleep in that auld bird’s nest?” And I said “Yes.” “An like,” he said, “when she leap’t up intae the chimney an came doon all sooty, an ah had tae scruff her an hauld her unner the tap, an she yowled, an ma wife and bairns said how ah was cruel, an ah said she’d get soot all ower the hoose an ah wisnae havin that. Then I dried her wi an old towel, an she purred fit tae bust?”

And I said “Yes, Rab.” “Aye, and when she caught her first rat an she couldnae kill it, and the wife had tae bash it wi a half brick. An the year when she caught that many rabbits I gave up at forty an stopped coont’n.” And I said “That’s right.”

“An there was that time” (he was grinning now) “she was after they ducklins an the auld drake went for her an drove her up a tree an wouldnae gi up, an ah had tae rescue her cos all the others was helpless laughin.”

And I said “Yes, Rab, that’s right.”

“An d’ye mean aboot how we felt when we moved tae the city, tae that second-floor flat, an we left her behint wi neighbours, cos we thought she’d never get used tae the traffic, an the bairns were greet’n, an ah felt like Judas?”

And I said “Yes, Rab, yes. All of those things.”

And he took up his pen, and stared at the paper, Then looked at me and laid his pen down.

“Ah cannae,” he said.

Illustration: Rasoul Hudda

“Ah dinnae ken whit tae say.”

pawsforthought

On the naming of cats Laura Keynes considers the importance of a moggy’s moniker

D

ancers and cats have a natural affinity. With their long limbs, delight in stretching out and instinctive style, it’s no wonder cats and ballerinas go together. Balanchine, the great Russian

choreographer, used to watch cats for inspiration. There’s a photo of his cat correcting its landing halfway through the air, with Balanchine in awe behind. Only dancers and gymnasts know how it feels to be that cat, springing through gravity with utter calm and poise. Look at any Russian Blue breed website and most cats there will be called Danilova, Baryshnikov or somesuch.

This brings me to my subject; the naming of cats. Now, T S Eliot might have stolen the march on this topic, but it’s time to update. The twentieth century has taken its toll on cat names.

These days, naming is rather like the process the Beckhams go through whenever they have a sprog. A case in point: my cousin called his cat Richmond because that’s where it was born. Like a Beckham, Richmond has grown up in a posh part of town and thinks he has more class in his left paw than all the royal Illustration: Rasoul Hudda

family put together but he’s still just a moggy.

I think about my future cats’ names more than my future kids’ names, which is admittedly a bit sad. The coolest name I ever heard was ‘VJ Detonator’, which gives the impression of a coiled up spring shooting off in all directions, rather apt for a kitten. Tradition, however, dictates that names end in ’y’. This was certainly my mum’s preference, and so I’ve grown up with Tiggy, Dotty, Squeaky, Motley, Timmy and Daisy. We did once have one called Inspector Nunu. He

My ten-year-old

used to knock on the door by lifting the letter box flap with his paw

half-sister has a pretty tabby

whenever he wanted to come in – an inspector calls – as if he knew he

kitten and there’s something about it that suits the name

should be clever because he had a name to live up to. Perhaps therein

she’s given to it ‘Petrova’ from Noel Streatfield’s story Ballet Shoes –

lies a clue as to why naming the Blue Peter cat caused such a stir.

ballet and cats again! With that name, Petrova is destined to be fluffy,

Cookie or Socks?

cute and rather princess-like. She sleeps on a pink blanket, no kidding.

Cookie is the clear winner. Socks is in the category of the obvious.

Personally I prefer the name the vet gave her upon going in to get her

I’ve known a few cats with this kind of name: Patch – black eye patch –

jabs. “Who’s this pretty thing then?” the vet asked my sister. Shyly, she

Boots – four white paws – Scruffy – louche longhair – or Sooty. It lacks

answered “Petrova.” The vet didn’t miss a beat. “Trevor!” he cried,

imagination. Consequently, so does the cat. Similar names are Rocky or

“Excellent!”

Flossy, sort of universal pet choices. Oddly, cats with mundane human

On naming cats, you’ve got to consider how they’re going to hold

names, like Eric or Sam, can be quite cool. But the best cats I’ve known

their own on the block. I have a suspicion that my sister’s cat would

have always been individuals, reflected in their name. My present

have more of a chance as Trevor than Petrova when she finally goes

cat is called The Midge, because he is THE one and only. I put him on

out to meet the neighbourhood moggies.

Facebook’s Catbook, which abbreviated him to ‘The.’ My friends can

Just to go back to the Beckham analogy, how’s Romeo going to

now click on “The The’s photos” or “Stroke the The”. Needless to say,

cope in the playground?! Naming is a serious business. There’s more at

he is The Best Cat In the World, Ever.

stake than you might think.

Feline fine in the

It’s showtime! Graham Clarke looks at the garden shows on offer this summer…

T

here are plenty of horticultural extravaganzas taking place over the summer months, so to shake off

those recessionary blues, why not venture out to one or more of them? Of any hobby it is gardening, almost certainly, that is best represented with shows and events of national – and even international – importance. Give your cat the day off: let him sleep without disturbance while you take a trip out. So, what does this year’s crop of gardening events have to offer?

BBC Gardeners’ World Live – June 2009 Based at the NEC, Birmingham, this show is run jointly by the Royal Horticultural Society and the BBC and is a celebration of the best of the TV gardening programmes with presenters in attendance. It runs from Wednesday 10 to Sunday 14 June, opening 9am–6pm each day.

This year there will be even more of an opportunity to get up close and personal with the presenters of the flagship gardening programmes. New Gardeners’ World presenter Toby Buckland will join the line-up giving live demonstrations in the Celebrity Theatre, which also features Carol Klein, Joe Swift and Monty Don. They will be inspiring visitors to transform gardens and allotments everywhere into a riot of colour, perfume and great-tasting fruit, vegetables and herbs. Growing your own will be a big theme at the show and practical help and advice will abound. The Live Allotment will take shape throughout the show as experts and celebrities demonstrate all the essentials of successful allotment gardening. There will also be 25 show gardens, the designers of which will all be hoping to win a coveted RHS medal.

The RHS Floral Marquee will have over 100 specialist nurseries offering many rare and unusual plants. There will be a major orchid display, too. and take part in the Plant Swap? Here, you can trade your best plants for the highlights of

One of the many spectacles at last year’s Hampton Court Palace Show;

there will be live demonstrations from celebrity chefs including Ainsley Harriot, Simon Rimmer

A colourful display at the Tatton Park Flower Show in 2008.

Photos: Graham Clarke

And if you like to take cuttings from your favourite garden plants, why not bring some along

Photos from left to right: Join presenter Toby Buckland at BBC Gardeners’ World Live in June;

someone else’s garden!

BBC Gardeners’ World Live takes place alongside the BBC Summer Good Food Show – at which and the Hairy Bikers. Your entry ticket will admit you to both shows. To book or for further details, phone 0844 579 3162 or visit www.bbcgardenersworldlive.com

gardeningfeature

Hampton Court Palace Flower Show – July 2009 Billed as the largest flower show in the world, this takes place every year in the second week of July. It is open from Tuesday 7 to Sunday 12 July; Tues-Fri 10am–7.30pm; Sunday 10am–5.30pm.

This year the event is going green with the majority of big features promoting aspects of sustainability, the environment, organic gardening, recycling, conservation, wildlife and so on. It promises to be the event if you want to be more environmentally aware in your gardening.

Of course there will be spectacles of colour to see as well. There will be ideas on how you can grow your own fruit and veg and how to enjoy healthy outdoor living. With something for everyone at the show this summer, pop along for a day of home-grown fun the whole family can get stuck into.

Other shows Other major gardening events worth visiting include:

National Amateur Gardening Show Shepton Mallet, Somerset, 4-6 September.

Phone 01749 822 235

Wisley Flower Show RHS Garden Wisley, Surrey, 11-13 September.

Phone 08452 609 000

Malvern Autumn Show The Malvern Showground, Worcestershire, 26-27 September. Phone 01684 584 900

There is also the Festival of Roses, the Plant Heritage Marquee, the Growing Tastes Marquee, the Plant Plots – plus show gardens large and small, all bursting with plants.

Hampton Court Palace Flower Show offers a wonderful plant shopping opportunity: the sight of visitors struggling under the weight of tall delphiniums, and bags full of perennials and bulbs, is common. Plants can be left in the Plant Crèche while you load up with more and then have a porter deliver everything to your car! For more information or to make a booking, phone 0844 209 1810 or visit www.rhs.org.uk

Six of the best: Tips on how to ‘survive’ the shows experience

1. Care for your cat: Before you leave home, make sure that your cat will be alright during your absence. Make

Tatton Park Flower Show – July 2009

sure that there is water, ventilation and food

Taking place near Knutsford, Cheshire, this is frequently billed as ‘the Chelsea of the

bored, safeguard delicates and valuables. If

North’. Held in the grounds of a lovely stately home, there are hundreds of acres to

possible, arrange for back-up to check on him

spare, so there is room to move and you can see every display without the crowds. It

if you get delayed.

available. If your cat is energetic and gets

will be open from Wednesday 22 to Sunday 26 July; Wed-Sat 10am–6.30pm; Sunday 10am–5pm.

First-time visitors will be knocked out by the stunning colour on display in the RHS/

2. Plan the day: Once at the show buy a catalogue to help

Ball Colegrave National Flower Bed Competition. Tatton has become internationally

you plan your day. The catalogue – and maps

known for this competition, entered by schools, colleges, universities, local authorities

of the showgrounds – will tell you where the

and community groups. Dozens of entrants from all around the UK come to display their

toilets are, so take note of these to avoid the

designs and plants and visitors who like what they see can take ideas away with them

last-minute dash.

and create their own displays at home.

Tatton is the place to visit if you want to learn more about how to care for your

3. Eating:

garden, too. In the Gardening in Action Marquee, advisors from the RHS will be

Bring your own food or, if you’re happy to

helping gardeners to find out more about how to grow and look after plants,

pay the show prices, try to choose times

including vegetables – now more popular than ever. You’ll also be able to see the latest

before 11.30am and after 2.30pm.

innovative creations from up-and-coming garden designers. To book tickets or for more information, phone 0844 209 1810 or visit www.rhs.org.uk

4. Footwear: Make sure you wear comfortable shoes; you’ll be on your feet nearly all day. In dry weather the grass will be suitable for sitting on, but in wet weather seats are often in short supply.

5. Wet weather gear: Take a waterproof coat with a hood in case of rain. Umbrellas are not a good idea as they can be dangerous in crowds!

6. Taking notes: If you don’t want to buy plants at the show, take a notepad and pencil so that you can make notes of the plants you like – and who sells them. You can usually place orders, but sometimes the stands are not manned, or there are too many people around.

makingmemories

Share the memories of your beloved cats with other readers by writing to us at Making Memories, The Cat, National Cat Centre, Haywards Heath RH17 7TT. Alternatively, email editorial@cats.org.uk

Neil Snee explains why Teddy was no ordinary cat…

W

hen I first saw Teddybear, several famous film characters

The other animals seemed to mark Teddy out as special. Miah, our

came to mind, Marlon Brando in On the Waterfront, “I

Border terrier, would often lie close to him giving him little licks and

coulda’ been a contender”; Tom Hanks as Forrest Gump,

the other cats would always let him to food first and get off the sofa if

“Life is like a box of chocolates,” and probably most obvious, Charlie Chaplin in The Tramp, “A tramp, a gentleman, a poet, a dreamer, a lonely fellow, always hopeful of romance and adventure.”

Teddy turned up as one of those wonderful cats who’d obviously had

Teddy wanted to lie down for a while.

Sadly, Teddy was on a slow downward spiral and became a regular visitor to Animal House where, yet again, he won hearts. He needed several overnight stays to rehydrate him as his liver condition worsened;

a hard few months or years on the road and a tough home life that

but each time you thought, “That’s your lot, Teddy,” he would return

meant he hadn’t known stability for some time. He’d been spotted by

home with a twinkle in his eye and snuggle down onto the sheepskin to

the resident feral cat expert down in Sandwich as not being one of

assume his rightful place in the house once again.

the gang – an old guy hanging on for a few bones – and once she had

Eventually a combination of age and ill health caught up with him

trapped him, Teddy ended up in the well-known House of Lazarus – the

and he couldn’t fight it any longer. Those fosterers and friends who

near dead! From the moment he walked in, Teds decided that the best

came for drinks before Christmas will remember Teddy being adored by

place to sit, lay and sleep was on the kitchen table so he could be within

all and in a way that was his wake. Teddy left us just before Christmas

seven feet of 90 per cent of the food; small issues such as having no

having touched many people’s hearts in his nine-month stay. Of all the

teeth were no deterrent to Teddy! He was truly a knight of the road,

cats we have cared for, found homes for or just nursed in their final

all skin and bones and doddery with it until a tasty morsel was around

days, Teddy stands out with his warm purrs and cheeky face; a genuine

whereupon all signs of frailty disappeared and a ragtag white tabby

chap who knew the value of a warm bed at the end of his days.

head would appear right by the plate.

We used to joke that if Teddy could speak he would always be saying in a cockney accent “Gorn luv, just a little nibble! You never know when the next meal’s coming along on the road.” He’d had a hard life and had probably got into the wrong crowd on a number of occasions; trying to imagine Teddy hanging out with a feral gang was impossible – he probably tried to teach them manners!

Once settled in, Teddy showed his true character, loving and warmhearted, with a knack of making you feel that he really needed looking after. The years had taken their toll on him and he wasn’t the healthiest of boys, but he managed to get around the house for the first couple of months and, as he got slower, made full use of the sheepskin on the sofa – now known as Teddy’s sofa. It was a slow decline and he was Illustration: Rasoul Hudda

going to hang on to life as long as he possibly could.

ts a c g n ri e b m e Rthreougm h helping others by helping others. Donations go towards pens for our This section offers readers the chance to pay tribute to a beloved cat Please send your donations to: Remembering branches, which help house cats and kittens while they wait for new homes.

Haywards Heath RH17 7TT. Tributes will be printed Cats, The Cat magazine, National Cat Centre, Chelwood Gate, errors (no more than 20 words). Thanks to in the next available issue. Please print your tribute clearly to avoid readers of The Cat, 310 pens have now been bought.

PUSSKINS – died 26.02.09

TOPSY PTS December 05 aged

SUKI PTS 19.03.07. My

MARMITE. A sweet and

aged 17 years. A loving feral.

17. The dearest little cat we

soulmate for 13 years. We

gentle ex-CP rescue cat who

We miss you running down the

have ever known. Remembered

shared so much love and

left us 02.04.09 aged 15. Dearly

embankment. Rest now.

always, Gwen and Hilary.

companionship.

loved girl.

Chris and Bryan.

I still miss you so much. Marian.

MARY-LOU PTS 19.02.09.

RUPERT, my ever loving ginger and white boy, who

WILLOW. Passed away In loving memory of our dearest

05.04.09. We’re heartbroken at

Together 20 years. My best

passed away on the third of

KATY, died 05.12.08 aged 21.

your loss. The most gentle and

tabby and white. Love you lots.

January. In my heart, Donald.

Much loved and greatly missed,

sweet natured British Blue ever.

Sylvia x

Love Mummy and Daddy.

RUARI 22.09.03, girlfriend POLLY and neighbour SOOTY – both summer 2003.

Devon Rex PTS with cancer. You

See you later, your old Mum xxx

PERN PTS 23.01.09 our

In loving memory of BEN,

beautiful little girl, we miss

passed away 11.07.05 aged 16,

you terribly and will love you

at rest in his favourite garden.

forever – Mum & Dad xx

From Peter, Sooty and Tiggy.

In loving memory of CINDY,

MISCHA – my gentle little gave me love for 19 precious

Now reunited with Uncle, all

years and for such a small

In memory of our handsome,

desperately missed and deeply

person you left an enormous

intelligent, three-legged black

loved, Bergie.

hole. Until Rainbow Bridge.

always happy and full of fun.

GINGER, EMMA, PURDIE, BLACKIE, PERKY, SCRUFFY. You are our family

passed away 24.05.83 aged 16.

and white boy, IFFY PTS

At rest in her favourite garden.

19.12.08. So loved and missed,

PEACHES 10.06.05. Loving

From Peter.

Mum, Joyce, Gloria and Gaye xx

memories of a much-loved pet,

In loving memory of CUMFY,

COCO forever remembered

Remembered and missed every

and we love you more than

passed away August 1965 aged

PTS 10.03.09, aged 17. You

day, Helen.

ever. God bless, little ones.

16. Reunited with our Mum and

gave us friendship and so many

Dad. From Peter.

happy memories. Love Vince & Beryl.

JESSIE 11.02.09 and GINNY

Mommy and Daddy.

SASHA 16.02.94; PORTIA 15.07.99 and SASHA 2nd

OSCAR and SAKI – even

22.12.05. My beautiful Siamese

though our family is now

06.04.05. For my two wonderful

In loving memory of TWIGGY

girlies, missed so very much.

complete, it isn’t really without

girls, who will be loved and

– 16.05.07. Loved and sadly

In our hearts forever. Love

you guys. Wish Sophie and

remembered always. Love Mum,

missed. Always in our thoughts

Mummy and Purdy xx

Justin could have grown up

Emma, Daniel xxx

and hearts. Love Mummy, Daddy, Perry, Leo.

Remembering TIMMY

CAT,

with you here. Love always, In loving memory of TASHA

Mummy and Daddy x

22.04.96-23.05.08. Rest in peace,

who left us 29.10.08. We miss

POE – one year on, still missing

Tasha, we will love and miss you

SPIKE 20.01.92 and WILLIE

you, but have all those happy

you with every beat of my

forever. Thank you for so many

24.10.95. My best friends –

memories. Thelma, John,

broken heart. Don’t ever stop

happy years, Maureen.

remembered always, Gwen.

Madeleine and Gypsy.

visiting, little friend.

Still grieving for beloved

DANIEL 07.04.90-14.01.09.

AMBER PTS 15.12.08 aged

OLYMPUSS (‘LIMPY’) run

JAMIE STEWART aged 10

My furry grey son. Loved and

20. Our beautiful, feisty, brave

over 19.05.04; also beautiful

PTS 12.02.04. You are always

missed forever, until we meet

tabby. Survived kidney disease

with me, Mummy.

again at Rainbow Bridge. RIP,

for over four years. Always

SHEBA; twin daughters GINGY and GIPSY – all

Dot.

loved. Duncan & Heather.

always loved – Mamma.

RTA 19.10.89. SADIE aged 16

Ali’scats

The marauder W

e’ve been invaded. I didn’t know

permitted. If some pirate had snuck in and

at first, I just thought my cats

pinched it meanwhile, they complained to the

were finishing up their food very

management, ie me, and demanded more.

fast and tidily, but one night when I went into the kitchen and switched the light on,

Somehow ‘Brown Fluff’ seemed to belong

a furry brown tail was disappearing through

in the same club as fat-cat bankers. If he/she

the cat flap. And Paddy and Fingal knew.

had been lean and hungry I’d have thought,

They were watching from a safe distance.

‘Poor thing’, and doled out sustenance while

I asked why they allowed this without

alerting Cats Protection. But this marauder

uttering a word of protest and they looked

was tubby and confident, as though sitting

embarrassed, as if caught out in an act of

on an enviable pension. He/she looked

uncharacteristic sentimentality.

thoroughly undeserving and smug with it.

The invasions went on and my cats still

Alison Prince encounters an enigmatic stranger...

Which I refused to provide, on principle.

Things came to a head one night when

made no objection. One of them would

Brown Fluff and Paddy attempted to use

occasionally prick up his ears and go to look

the cat flap from opposite sides and collided

down between the banisters – our sitting

midway. This time, Paddy let rip with howls of

room is upstairs, in one of those free-range

protest that had me rushing to his defence –

kind of houses – but neither of them said

but BF had legged it.

a word. This was very odd, because Paddy

By the time I got to the scene of the crime,

usually screams his head off if he catches

there was just my normally gentle Paddy,

the merest glimpse of an unauthorised cat

tail like a bottle-brush and in such a state of

anywhere near the house, let alone in it, but

the trembles that he wouldn’t go out unless

this brown visitor seemed to be exempt from

escorted with a torch. A somewhat over-

disapproval. I kept catching him/her in mid-

excited Fingal came too. In the dark garden,

nosh and we once collided face to face – or

I delivered a speech to the invisible ‘BF’ that

at least, face to knees – when I was coming in

was probably heard by all the neighbours.

and he/she was going out. Fat, fluffy, brown,

Something along the lines of, ”I don’t know

with thick legs and a round face and four

who you are or who you belong to, but I’m

white feet – and an untidy mouthful of Felix.

fed up with you coming in here and pinching

The raids became more frequent. I started feeding Paddy and Fingal smaller amounts

my cats’ food.“ But less polite.

For some reason, it seems to have done

and telling them to eat it all up right now,

the trick. BF hasn’t been here since. I’m

while I was watching. It didn’t always work.

now wondering guiltily if this was not

The pair of them were apt to remember some

a bank-manager fat cat but a pregnant

urgent appointment when halfway through

one. Are more wee marauders growing up

breakfast, but assumed that they could come

somewhere? No doubt we’ll see.

back and finish it when their busy schedule

Illustration: Alison Prince

Book reviews Looking for a great book about cats? Check out our reviews before

you buy...

Christian the Lion Adapted by Ruth Knowles story of how two young men This is a children’s adaptation of A Lion called Christian – the famous the Dangerous Wild Animals Act bought a lion cub from Harrods in 1969, back in the days before the basement of a London furniture store prevented such sales. It tells of Christian’s first months living in nature reserve in Kenya. It is a heartbefore joining conservationists George and Joy Adamson at a lion cub to a whole new generation warming tale told in an easy fashion that will endear this adorable on YouTube where Christian is reunited of animal lovers. If you are online, check out the film footage day and at the right time. It’s enough with John and Ace, the friends who were in Harrods on the right to bring a tear to anyone’s eye. Francesca Watson Christian the Lion (£5.99) is published by Random House (www.kidsatrandomhouse.co.uk Tel: 020 7840 8400)

Know Your Cat

By Francesca Ricomini , personality and health. It will Know Your Cat is an informative book covering behaviour, genetics providing interesting snippets of have, may owners answer many questions that even experienced cat ly gone unnoticed, along with previous have may information about our cats’ day-to-day habits that minimise stress. to how and eaters fussy practical information such as how to cope with , in the wild, cats will kill example For ive. perspect cat’s The book will help you look at the world from a like to drink near to don’t Cats e. elsewher from their prey in one place but find a waterhole to drink bowls. It is an ideal food to next placed are bowls water their food, yet in the domestic setting, so many cat. first their adopting ing consider anyone gift for any cat lover, as well as a good read for Gemma Cook – Veterinary Manager, Cats Protection Know Your Cat (£14.99) is published by Hamlyn, a division of Octopus (www.octopusbooks.co.uk Tel: 0207 531 8400)

Publishing Group Ltd

How to Speak Cat – The Essential Guide to Understanding Your Pet

By Sarah Whitehead pets’ needs and giving lots of practical A fun guide for children aimed at helping them understand their Written by pet behaviour counsellor, Sarah advice on how to keep their feline friends happy and healthy. ion on how cats communicate to help Whitehead, How to Speak Cat contains lots of useful informat also packed full of interesting feline facts, children interpret their behaviour and learn to ‘speak‘ cat. It is for them to try out. An enjoyable read essential cat care tips as well as entertaining games and tricks a young cat owner. Gemma Bather that also promotes responsible pet ownership – an ideal gift for (www.acblack.com Tel: 0207 758 0200) How to Speak Cat (Hardback £9.99) is published by A & C Black

Last of the Scottish Wildcats – DVD Produced by Steve Piper

much longer than we humans. Sadly, this Wildcats have been around for more than two million years – the UK, has been nearly wiped out due to of whole the around wonderful creature, which used to roam d there are as little as 400 wildcats in the the increasing encroachment of human civilisation. It is estimate eye-opening DVD documentary gives world today – putting them on the critically endangered list. This sparse presence in today’s society. its and wildcat rstood us an insight into the history of the misunde these indigenous cats, but preserve to option only the is Now a protected species, captive breeding DVD sold, approximately every For looms. n extinctio of threat persecution still stands and, sadly, the preserving Britain’s last to d dedicate charity a on, Associati £4 will be donated to The Scottish Wildcat native feline. Alice Burton Last of the Scottish Wildcats (£15) is produced by Coffee Films

(www.coffeefilms.com)