Misty wins prestigious award

Photo: Misty © PA Media/Cats Protection

A tortoiseshell cat, Misty, from Poole has won the Most Caring Cat category in the National Cat Awards 2022 organised by the charity Cats Protection.

Misty was chosen by husband-and-wife judges, ex-England goalkeeper David Seaman MBE and former Dancing on Ice star Frankie Seaman who said they found it hard to choose a winner from the three shortlisted cats.

The 13-year-old moggy scooped the award in recognition of how she helped Coral Jones cope after she was diagnosed at the age of 14 with costochondritis. The illness left Coral bedridden, causing muscle wastage, which led to her being unable to walk for two years.

Having missed large chunks of school, Coral, now 22, still suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder following the ordeal.

She collected Misty’s trophy and prize package at the awards ceremony at London’s Savoy Hotel on 4 August.

“Misty has always been there for me through everything and I’m so pleased that she’s had the recognition she deserves,” said Coral. ”When I was a teenager and unable to walk, I felt invisible to everyone except Misty. She never gave up on me; she was cheering me on at every step I took with those crutches.

“I wouldn’t have coped without her, and I hope people will see her story and realise how caring, patient and supportive cats are, particularly when it comes to physical and mental health.

“I’m bursting with pride for Misty and so grateful to have her in my life. She’s my guardian angel.”

Misty narrowly missed out on being named National Cat of the Year, which went to Jasper and Willow, a pair of rescue cats who provide comfort at a hospice in Haywards Heath, Sussex.

Cats Protection’s organiser of the awards, Cat Jarvis, said Misty and Coral’s story is truly heart-warming: “From staying by Coral’s side when she was unable to walk to helping her through trauma attacks, Misty has been a constant support and shows how devoted, loyal and caring cats can be.”