Cat Care and Adoration Service

I am a retired academic; lover of books, animals, and especially cats, and embracing the cliche of it all. I have looked after cats for a lot of my adult life; often staying in friends' homes with their cats when they are away for extended periods, and being an official cat rescuer myself. I've been adopted by cats, twice, both feral and with health and trust issues to start with, and then my last beloved boy, Jefferson, part Maine Coon, was a Cats Protection rescue who was a little too much for people to take on. He came with some serious trauma and long term health conditions but brought the biggest loving heart with him once he learnt he was safe. He was with me for the last seven years of his life and only recently died, leaving me with enormous gratitude for having had him for that time, but a Jefferson size hole in my life, all the same. I'm likely to move in the next year and so I won't get my own animals again until then, so, for now, I have the time to be the indulgent 'auntie' for all my friends' cats (and I realise as I think about it, most of my friends come with cats or dogs - perhaps no surprise), and time, too, to look after other people's precious cats.

I charge a little more than the minimum because I would rather spend more time in your home with the cats, quietly sitting with them, or playing, and letting them get to know me and having some company whilst their owners are away. Whoever thinks cats do not need the above never had their own feline.

I'm all about the animal: learning to read what they need, taking care to give them the attention they desire, and ensuring they are safe and loved whilst in my care. I've worked in Universities for the past three decades and have been DBS checked all that time to ensure I am reliable and suitable to work with vulnerable others. The same applies to animals.

I realise I started talking about the 'service' I offer, above. As with any child or other animals, it starts with them and what is in their best interest. I only give treats if owners allow and where it is okay for the animal; it must be said, some of my friends' cats greet me on the doorstep and escort me to the treats' cupboard having established this well practised routine; I am a favourite caller! With my last two cats, though, they needed very careful diets because of health issues and I needed to avoid food treats to build the relationship in different ways. Play and cuddles are usually the answer, always depending upon the pusscat. I've rarely found an animal who doesn't respond to stimulation and some play time - it's just finding out what they like. I, also, have found if I sit quietly with a laptop or a book, the can can take their time to come to me and have lap time when they are ready. I am particularly good at head and base of tail rubs, according to my feline reviewers who return for more again, and again.. I am used to having to administer oral drugs with a syringe, where required, and following particular routines with animals that need special care and attention as identified by their owners. At the end of the day, its about loving the animal with what they need for their overall wellbeing.