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Hearing cat crowned National Cat of the Year
Zebby and his owner Genevieve Moss.
Zebby helps his deaf owner around her home.

A cat who helps his deaf owner despite not having had any formal training has been named as National Cat of the Year 2023.

Zebby, who lives in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, with his owner Genevieve Moss was announced as the winner at the National Cat Awards at Wilton’s Music Hall in London on Monday, 17 July.

The hearing cat helps Ms Moss around the house by alerting her to sounds she can’t hear when she doesn’t have her hearing aid on. He taps her when the phone is ringing and paces about in front of her when someone is at the door.

After winning the public vote in the Family Fur-ever category, Zebby was chosen as the overall winner by a panel of veterinary experts and celebrities which included former England international footballer David Seaman and his wife Frankie Poultney.

The winners of three other categories were also announced at the ceremony, which was hosted by TV presenter Dawn O’Porter:
  • Social Star: Eric, who has gone from being a stray to become a rising star of Twitter and Instagram
  • Cat Colleagues: Henry IX, who provides companionship to the gardening team at Hampton Court Palace
  • Moggy Marvels: Willow, who fetched help when her diabetic owner lost consciousness.
After Zebby won his award, Ms Moss said: “I am so proud of Zebby for showing the world how intuitive and caring cats can be, and what a positive effect they can have on people’s lives. I can’t imagine life without Zebby and I’m over the moon that he’s been honoured in the National Cat Awards. Living on my own and being deaf means life could be lonely, but not with Zebby around – he’s my hero.”

The annual awards are run by animal-welfare charity Cats Protection.

National Cat Awards organiser Ashley Fryer added: “From the moment we read his entry form, we knew Zebby was something special. Zebby is clearly devoted to Genevieve, and their story highlights the powerful bond that exists between people and their cats. He’s a shining example of the joy and comfort a cat can bring.”


Image (C) Cats Protection

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Central Qualifications to attend BVNA Congress

News Story 1
 Central Qualifications (CQ) is to host a stand at this year's BVNA Congress. The awarding body will be at Stand C9 from 11-13 October.

It will discuss changes to the qualifications strategy and some new qualifications, including a top-up course for equine veterinary care, so qualified veterinary nurses can broaden their skills.

Rachael Shepherd, education consultant at CQ, said: "We are looking forward to attending BVNA Congress this year. There are exciting times ahead, with a revamp to the VN qualifications and assessment strategy and the introduction of some new qualifications." 

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News Shorts
Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.