Mature Moggies Day to celebrate older cats
Flossie gained her Guinness World Records title after being adopted from Cats Protection by Vicki Green.
Cats Protection is getting ready to champion older cats on Mature Moggies Day.
The charity launched the awareness day, which takes place every year on 16 June, to highlight the benefits that an older cat can bring.
While kittens take just eight days to find homes on average, cats that are 11 years and older typically take one month to be rehomed, according to the charity.
The charity will be sharing information about adopting and looking after older cats. It is also asking owners of senior cats to share their photos and stories on social media using the hashtag #MatureMoggies.
Among the older cats that Cats Protection has previously rehomed is Flossie, who currently holds the Guinness World Records title for being the oldest living cat.
The charity rehomed her two years ago. Now aged 28, she is continuing to do well in her new home in Orpington with owner Vicki Green.
Ms Green said: “I knew from the start that Flossie was a special cat but I didn’t imagine I’d be sharing my home with a world record holder. She’s so affectionate, playful and sweet, especially when you remember how old she is.”
The oldest cat currently being looked after by Cats Protection is Charlie, who is 19 years old. He has been at the charity’s East Norfolk Centre for more than a month.
Improvements in veterinary treatment and pet care mean that cats are living longer. The average life expectancy for pet cats in the UK is now 11.7 years.
Sarah Elliott, central veterinary officer at Cats Protection, said: “Older cats often have established personalities and, as they often have longer stays in care than young cats, our staff and volunteers can know more about their individual likes and dislikes to make sure they are the best fit for you.”
More information about Mature Moggies Day can be found on the Cats Protection website.
Image © Cats Protection
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