The National Cat Awards, presented annually by Cats Protection, are a fun celebration of the UK’s rarest cats. This year’s ceremony was held on September 18 in London, hosted by best-selling author Dawn O’Porter, and spotlighted the incredible cats who bring warmth, support, and smiles to those around them. them.
National Cat of the Year 2024: Marley
Marley, a seven-year-old black-and-white moggy, was awarded the prestigious title of National Cat of the Year 2024 in the UK, and the winner of the Incredible Cats Category.
Living at Caritas Bakhita House, a safe house for women who have endured exploitation, slavery, and trafficking, Marley has become an anchor of comfort for the 11 women from different backgrounds who call it home. According to Karen, a representative from Bakhita House, Marley’s friendly nature offers the first sense of kindness that many guests experience upon arrival. Marley, who was adopted after a history of abuse himself, is particularly sensitive to visitors’ trauma, often reaching out with a gentle touch to comfort them.
One woman was in such distress when she arrived at the safe house that she could not speak to any of the support people. But, he immediately trusted Marley, and over time, the team was able to build a bridge and help him, thanks to this incredible cat.
Beyond her emotional support role, Marley takes on various roles at Bakhita House as “staff supervisor,” “security guard,” and “chief gardener”—though no one is allowed anywhere near her. patch of daisies. His presence is so beloved that he even joins the residents for dinner every night, earning his place as the heart of this strong community.
“In art therapy, she’s a famous muse,” Karen explains. “One guest even composed a song for him.”
And, he’s no stranger to group dinners. When the staff sit down for their 7 pm meal, Marley joins them and makes it a family-style event every night.
“He is the tender heart of our home.”
Meet the Other Finalists
Family Cats Category Finalist: Zara
Finalist of Category of Family Cats10-year-old Zara is more than just a pet to her family and the congregation at St John the Evangelist in Bexley. Adopted by vicar Edward Barlow and his wife Kate, Zara has a deep bond with their autistic son Elliot, offering him calm and companionship. Zara’s sense of purpose extends beyond the family home as she comforts mourners at funerals, offers comfort at church services, and even attends choir practice.
“During church services, Zara would laugh at my sermons then find a comfortable lap in the congregation to settle in,” shared Reverend Barlow. “Our services are live-streamed on the church’s Facebook page through the pandemic and always get more views if Zara is on my shoulder. She loves being in wedding photos and getting involved, very assertive, in meetings.
Reverend Edward explained how Zara intuitively connects with people in need, a quality she displays within her family and the wider church community. He seems to understand when people need his comfort and is always there to help.
“Zara is central to our family and the wider church family, she is truly a Godsend.”
Connected Cats Category Finalist: Cilla
The Category of Connected Cats The finalist is Cilla, a beloved school cat at Outwoods Primary in Warwickshire. Since showing up at the school six years ago, he has become a trusted presence among students, teachers, and even a community with 25,000 followers on X (Twitter).
Known for her calming presence, Cilla helps anxious students relax during exams and greets everyone in the morning. His social media popularity is so widespread that for his birthday, fans sent £5,000 worth of books to the Outwoods library.
“[Cilla] is the first name on our staff list, ahead of me,” said head teacher Sally Taylor. “Our pupils are very calm and that’s down to Cilla. They know the school is a safe place because he chose to live here.”
Senior Category Finalist: Dave
The finalist for Category of Senior Cats21-year-old Dave—known as Miss Dave Mittens—was celebrated for her honesty and playful spirit. Owned by Tom Witney and his partner Greville Matthews, Dave has been a part of their lives since he was a stray kitten with an amputated leg.
“The secret to Dave’s longevity, I think, is good moggy genes and how well Grev and I trained him. His meow pitch is a little higher when he wants food or excitement and we immediately respond to his requests,” shares Tom.
Now a graceful senior, Dave is as adored as ever, even appearing in Tom’s PhD acknowledgments as a beloved study friend. Tom and Greville attribute Dave’s remarkable longevity to his “moggy genes” and the devoted care they provide.
About Cat Protection
Cats Protection is the UK’s largest feline welfare charity, helping an average of 157,000 cats and kittens each year. They have a network of over 210 volunteer-run branches and 34 centers that help make these numbers possible.
Founded in 1927, Cats Protection has promoted the welfare and companionship of cats, rehoming over two million cats in nearly 100 years. With their network of volunteers and centres, they continue to spread their message of kindness and compassion across the UK, reminding us of the comfort and joy feline friends bring to our lives.
Head over to their website to learn more about them or click here to find out how you can donate and support their efforts.
