As part of our Paws for Thought campaign this year, we’re sharing stories of how adopting a pet has improved people’s wellbeing. ITV Westcountry reporter Charlotte Gay adopter her cat Mitzi in 2017 and, although her job means she’s frequently away from home, Mitzy has been a grounding influence for her.
Tell us about how you came to adopt Mitzi
My partner always knew we wanted to adopt a cat. I had grown up with a cat, whom I missed a lot when I went to university. When we bought our first home together, it seemed like the right time but we waited six months to settle in before visiting our nearest RSPCA shelter.
We went along fairly open minded about the kind of cat we would like. We hoped for a cat who would enjoy cuddles, but equally we both had full-time jobs, so we knew it would have to be a cat who didn’t mind being left alone during the day.
We joked we wouldn’t fall for the first cat we were introduced to but we both instantly bonded with Mitzi and, despite being told she was quite a nervous cat, she seemed to warm to us quickly.
What were your first impressions after adopting Mitzi?
After being told she was a nervous cat we were initially cautious not to overwhelm her when we brought her home, but something must have clicked because immediately she was walking all over us, purring and rubbing her face on us. It was truly lovely because we thought it was going to take a while for her to settle, but she was keen to get to know us as quickly as possible.
What is Mitzi’s personality like?
I grew up with a cat who liked to be both indoors and outdoors in equal measure, so I as adamant that we wouldn’t try to make Mitzi an indoor cat if that wasn’t what she wanted. Once we adopted her, however, we found that she does generally prefer to be inside about 90% of the time. She can be nervous about meeting new people, so if friends come round and want to meet her, they usually have to sit quietly next to her at first. It takes a while for others to earn her trust and she keeps to herself when larger groups come over.
Working from home has probably made Mitzi needier – she now expects us to be around more and enjoys the extra attention. It’s not always helpful when you’re working to a deadline, but it’s lovely to feel wanted!
How has adopting Mitzi helped your mental wellbeing?
She certainly makes you think of what kind of energy you bring into a room because if you are rushing around or making loud noises she’ll bolt up the stairs and out of the way. If I am ever feeling unwell or don’t get out of bed quickly, she will stay next to me for hours. Whenever I hear her purrs building up it makes me feel good to know I’m making a little creature I love happy too.
How do you think you’d be feeling and coping with life if you didn’t have Mitzi?
During successive lockdowns my partner and I had to live/work away from home at different times, which could often be hard. Having Mitzi for company when he was away, and equally having her to come back to when I had to go away, was wonderful. She’s like our rock. When I think of home I think of wherever she is – she makes me feel at ease. As she is such an indoorsy cat, if one of us comes back from work, or a trip, she’s the first to welcome us with a loud purr and wrapping her tail around our legs.
What would you say to other people who are perhaps considering getting a pet?
A pet can be an instant best friend. Having a loving pet at home who will always be happy to see you makes you feel loved – they will always boost your mood. The great thing about adopting a rescue pet is that you’re giving an animal that maybe hasn’t the best start a second chance at a happy life and they are all the more loving and grateful for it.
