A special cat from Harrogate is in the running for a national award for helping her companion Jessica Swift cope with various health conditions.
Jessica, who is 16, has a chromosome disorder known as 15q11.2 deletion, as well as autism, epilepsy, learning disabilities and disordered eating.
Her best friend is Max, a male seven-year-old tabby.
During the night Jessica sometimes has seizures and Max will run to her parents to let them know that she needs help. After she’s had a seizure, the devoted mog will cuddle up and comfort her.
Sometimes Jessica has to spend time in hospital and mum Zoe Curtis said that at such times Max is not himself, and that he paces around and jumps into her arms as soon as she gets home.
Ms Curtis said:
“Max and Jessica are inseparable, and they get so much enjoyment from each other’s company.
“Jessica can sometimes have seizures in the night, and we have an alarm to let us know when this is happening. But Max is often already on the case, running to us to let us know we need to come and help Jessica. After she’s had a seizure, he’ll cuddle up close to her, which is such a comfort for her.
“Max has his own health problems, as he has a heart condition which needs daily medication. Jessica will hold him while I give him his tablet – there’s no one else he’ll allow to do that.
“Jessica will have little tea parties for her toys, and Max always joins in. The love they have for each other is clear for everyone to see. In Max, Jessica has a best friend and a constant companion.”
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Max has been named as a finalist in Cats Protection’s National Cat Awards 2022.
He beat hundreds of other entries and is one of three contenders in the Furr-ever Friends category, which celebrates the bond between children and cats.
Cats Protection’s awards organiser Kate Bunting said:
“It’s truly heartwarming to hear of the incredible bond Jessica and Max share, and how they care for each other. Their story really highlights what an amazing effect cats can have on the lives of people of all ages.”
If Max wins his category, he will also be in with a chance of being crowned National Cat of the Year.
