The brother-and-sister duo of Weasley and Jinx beat hundreds of other entries and took their spot as one of three nominees in the Most Caring Cat category, which celebrates cats that have a positive impact on people’s health or wellbeing.
The two-year-old Moggies were selected as finalists because of their positive impact on the lives of residents at the Southdowns Nursing Home in Hastings, which cares for people with a variety of physical and / or mental health problems, including dementia.
Associate Practitioner Darren Fouracre said the couple arrived at the home as kittens in the summer of 2019 and had a great positive impact on the lives of both residents and staff.
Hastings cats Weasley and Jinx SUS-210727-1032000001
He said, “It was amazing to see the life changing effects of both cats on the residents. They have a tremendous calming effect and residents love it when they curl up on their laps.
“We have had some residents who barely speak but who have spoken to ask about the cats or have started talking to them. For other residents, the cats bring back memories of happy times, which can be very useful.
“The residents are very happy about them, but in the last few months we have also noticed something particularly moving. As some residents near the end of their lives, we have found that Jinx is especially drawn to them and chooses to stay with them in their final hours. It’s incredibly moving and also exceptionally calming.
“The cats are there in good and difficult times and always bring a smile to everyone. They are loved by residents and staff alike and we would not be without them. “
Employees and residents of the home now have to face a nerve-wracking wait until the winners of the category categories are announced. A prominent panel will then decide which cat will go home with the coveted National Cat of the Year title announced on Thursday, August 12th. Kate Bunting, organizer of the Cats Protection Awards, said, “It’s incredibly touching to hear the comfort of so many people from Weasley and Jinx.”
