The much-anticipated finalists for the National Cat Awards 2024 have been unveiled, showcasing an array of remarkable felines who have made a significant impact on the lives of their human companions. Organised by Cats Protection, the UK’s largest feline welfare charity, this annual celebration honours the unique bond between cats and their owners, with eleven exceptional moggies in the running for the prestigious title of National Cat of the Year 2024.

This year’s finalists, ranging from sociable companions to empathetic caregivers, will compete in four distinct categories: Connected Cats, Family Cats, Senior Cats, and Incredible Cats. The winners, including the overall National Cat of the Year, will be revealed at a special ceremony hosted by best-selling author and TV presenter, Dawn O’Porter, at London’s One Marylebone on 18 September.

Meet the Finalists:

1. Marley – A beacon of comfort at Caritas Bakhita House in London, Marley provides solace to women escaping modern slavery. His gentle presence has become a source of hope and healing for residents.
2. Cilla – Once a stray, Cilla found her home at Outwoods Primary School in Warwickshire. She calms anxious pupils, inspires a community of cat lovers on Twitter, and has even helped raise £5,000 to restock the school library.
3. Marmaduke – A ginger giant from Greater Manchester, Marmaduke helped his owner, Janice Cheetham, recover from the trauma of working as an emergency medical technician during the Manchester Arena attack in 2017.

National Cat Awards: A Celebration of the Human-Feline Bond

The National Cat Awards not only highlight the heartwarming stories of these extraordinary cats but also demonstrate the profound impact that cats have on their owners’ lives. Last year’s winner, Zebby, exemplified this bond by supporting his deaf owner, Genevieve Moss, in Chesterfield, Derbyshire.

Dawn O’Porter, returning as host, expressed her excitement: “I’m so pleased to be back to present the National Cat Awards again this year. I love hearing the amazing stories about the nominated cats and learning how these incredible animals have made lives better for their families. It really is the ultimate event for cat people.”

Catherine Cottrell, Cats Protection’s Marketing and Income Generation Director, highlighted the variety of stories among this year’s finalists: “Some of our finalists have shown incredible intuition in understanding their owners’ needs; others are total extroverts, becoming local celebrities. The central message of all the stories is that cats are cherished family members who add so much love to their owners’ lives.”

Voting and Awards Ceremony

Cat lovers can cast their votes for their favourite finalist from 9am on 17 July until 30 August by visiting www.cats.org.uk/nca. Category winners will receive a prize package that includes a trophy, a £200 pet store voucher, and a year’s subscription to Cats Protection’s The Cat magazine. The National Cat of the Year will also be awarded an overall winner’s trophy.

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Full List of Finalists:

Incredible Cats:

• Marmaduke (Greater Manchester) – Marmaduke, the cuddle-loving ginger cat, helped his owner Janice through the aftermath of the Manchester Arena attack.
• Marley (London) – Marley offers comfort and companionship to women at a safehouse, helping them heal from past traumas.
• Lily (Nottinghamshire) – Young Lily has become a maternal figure to her owner’s children, offering comfort during difficult times.

Senior Cats:

• Katie and Lucy (Surrey) – Despite their age and ailments, these 17-year-old cats continue to bring joy to their owner, Alyson, while also helping her through her grief.
• Seth (Nottinghamshire) – After surviving a brutal dog attack, Seth provided comfort to his owner during her cancer treatment.
• Dave (London) – The 21-year-old Miss Dave Mittens has been a loyal companion through decades, now enjoying the luxuries of her long life.

Connected Cats:

• Cilla (Warwickshire) – The school cat at Outwoods Primary, Cilla has a calming effect on students and is a beloved figure in the community.
• Charlie Charles (Cornwall) – This mischievous cat has become a local celebrity in Wadebridge, charming everyone he meets.
• Dexter (Wiltshire) – Dexter, the tabby cat, has become a beloved fixture in his village, known for his daily rounds and cheeky personality.

Family Cats:

• William (Kent) – After losing a leg, William’s bond with his young owner, Amber, who has sensory processing disorder, grew even stronger.
• Zara (Greater London) – The church cat at St John the Evangelist, Zara provides comfort to her family and the wider church community, especially during difficult times.

The National Cat Awards 2024 is not just a celebration of cats but a tribute to the incredible connections they form with people. As we eagerly await the announcement of the winners, one thing is certain: life is undoubtedly better with cats.