Ahead of #MatureMoggiesDay on 16 June, Cats Protection is highlighting the many benefits older cats bring and celebrating the special bond between mature cats and their owners.

According to the charity, cats aged 11 or more take over three times longer to rehome than kittens so in response Cats Protection is offering advice on its website about caring for senior cats.

“It’s a common misconception that older cats don’t play or interact much with owners, when in actuality, mature cats are just as loving and playful as younger ones,” said Cats Protection Behaviourist Daniel Warren-Cummings. “In fact, it could even be easier to introduce a mature cat to your home than a younger cat or kitten. We’re hoping to show people that an older cat can make the perfect companion, especially if you are battling loneliness.”

One heartwarming adoption story that stands out involves John Lomax, a 90-year-old partially-sighted man who reached out to Cats Protection after the loss of his wife of 65 years. Feeling lonely, John hoped to adopt a cat for companionship. The team introduced him to Lily, a 13-year-old tabby who was also in search of a new home.

Since Lily’s adoption, she’s become John’s constant companion, often sleeping on his pillow and playfully demanding attention. “It’s just like having another wife,” John says.

Cats Protection has many older cats like Lily who would make the perfect companion for a loving owner and currently the oldest cat in the charity’s care is Pippa at the charity’s Berkshire Cat Centre. The 20-year-old tabby came into care after her owner’s health deteriorated and she could no longer look after her.

“Cats go through six life stages as they grow, and they start to be considered old when they reach the ‘mature’ stage at age seven but they typically don't start slowing down until they reach the senior stage at 11 years old,” said Daniel. “When your cat enters their golden years, they will generally become less active, calmer, and perhaps will enjoy staying indoors a bit more.”