Famous cats raise money for tigers
Image: Larry
Renowned cats such as Larry the 10 Downing Street cat, and the Street Cat named Bob, have teamed up to help buy some oversized toys for the tigers at London Zoo.
The furry-faced fundraisers have donated their toys and "pawtographs" to an eBay auction which began yesterday. Proceeds from the auction will go towards a "tiger toy box" for Jae Jae and Melati, the inhabitants of the zoo's new Tiger Territory exhibit.
Tiger Keeper Teague Stubbington explains: “Tigers love playing with toys as much as domestic cats do and we provide them with lots of enrichment at ZSL London Zoo to encourage their inquisitive natures.
“The fact that some of Britain’s most famous cats have used their feline fame to buy extra toys that will help top up our tigers’ toy box is brilliant.”
Now up for auction on eBay, Larry's toy is the perfect gift for pets with political aspirations, having seen all the nooks and crannies of Downing Street. You can also find a signed toy belonging to Britain's most inspirational puss, the Street Cat named Bob!
Bidders can get their hands on a signed VIP cat toy from the Prime Minister's cat, author James Bowden's cat Bob, Pauline McLynn's cats Alice and Brenda or model Lucy Pinder's cat Jackson.
Keepers are planning to use the funds raised to buy Jae Jae and Melati some of their favourite toys, including boomer balls, bungee ropes and catnip. Their new home is set to open to the public at the end of this month on 22 March.
To find the famous toys, search "ZSL Toys for Tigers" on eBay.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
