Young boy makes huge strides thanks to abandoned cat
A cat rescued from an abandoned house has transformed the life of a young boy with autism, according to his mother Louise Booth, who has told their story in a new book.
Louise says her son Fraser's anxiety was obvious from the moment he was born, but nobody took her seriously for more than a year and health visitors simply told her he needed more love.
Fraser was 18-months-old by the time he was finally diagnosed with autism and hypotonia - a muscle tone condition affecting his ability to walk and use his hands.
The family lived in the beautiful but isolated Balmoral Estate in the Scottish Highlands, meaning Louise had little support as she attempted to understand her son's condition. By the time Fraser was three, his temper tantrums were becoming unmanageable.
Help came unexpectedly in the form of an eccentric cat called Billy. According to Louise, Fraser and his cat became inseparable from the moment they met when Billy purred and laid his paws across him.
With Billy's help, Fraser reached milestones that had seemed impossible, such as climbing the stairs, which were a huge obstacle due to his hypotonia. Louise says Billy would loyally sit at the top of the stairs waiting for his young companion to climb them, rewarding him with purring and cuddles when he reached the top.
Billy's quiet, calming presence helps Fraser with everyday events that were previously very stressful, such as mealtimes and bedtimes.
Another source of stress for Fraser was hair washing, causing him to work himself into a frenzy to avoid the water. Louise says Billy would stand upright with his paws on the bath-side to keep Fraser calm.
Since meeting Billy, the young boy's development has progressed so rapidly he is now able to attend a mainstream school, something his parents were told would be impossible.
Fraser's mum Louise has now written a book detailing the extraordinary effect this abandoned cat has had on her son. Published yesterday, When Fraser Met Billy promises to touch the hearts of all who read it.
Photos taken by Cristian Barnett © Hodder & Stoughton
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.
