Marley, a black and white fluff ball, residing in a safe house for women has gained national recognition for his impressive “empathy skills”. Thousands of entries were submitted but Marley triumphed them all to be crowned the Cats Protection’s National Cat of the Year 2024. This highly esteemed honor was awarded to Marley because of his incredible acts of love and empathy towards those who have been enslaved, exploited and trafficked.
Karen Anstiss, the head of Caritas Bakhita House, where Marley lives said, “I’m so proud Marley has won National Cat of the Year – he’s a wonderful example of the power of love”. Women who have experienced severe trauma and have not experienced kindness in a long time, find solace in Marley’s empathetic and supportive demeanor.
Marley initially lived in a rescue shelter, but after the rescue, he had difficulty finding a forever home since he was previously bullied by another cat. Caritas Bakhita House’s staff understood the struggles Marley faced and wanted to give him a chance at a good life. Since then, Marley has been providing therapeutic aid to those at the safe house, and he has made several breakthroughs in helping women recover from their trauma.
Ms Anstiss mentions that Marley is not only the “empathy king” but also the star of the house, and he plays an essential role in the staff’s and guests’ well-being. He occasionally joins in during art therapy sessions and is the staff’s supervisor, the security guard, and even the chief gardener. He is admired and loved by all and has become the ‘Fluffy Heart of Our Home.’
Cilla, a school cat at Outwoods Primary School in Warwickshire won the “connected” category of the National Cat Awards. Cilla is known to calm pupils before their SATs, and she sparked donations of £5,000 worth of books from social media followers around the world, restocking the school library
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