Back in January I had the pleasure of meeting Sampson and his people. He’s eighteen years old and his owner described him as her little rescue mate. They’ve been in each other’s lives since she adopted him as a baby kitten and the bond between them is heartwarming. When I arrived it was still about a million degrees outside, but Sampson was lying in the courtyard enjoying every bit of it!

We moved into the kitchen where he showed me his great camouflage trick and his semi Hipster Cat moustache.

He’d kinda had enough of me at that stage so he took himself off to the top of the stairs for some peace. I may have followed him, but I brought food so I wasn’t totally unwelcome. There was a certain amount of pretending I wasn’t there, followed by wishing I wasn’t there, sighing and crossed arms. Just normal cat behaviour I guess!

When it had cooled down we went back outside and he got a brushing, which he absolutely loved.

Sampson has lots of people in his life and he also has a fifteen year old cattle dog, Skye, for company.

With two quite senior pets in the house I had to ask what their secret was – “Lots of love, lots of adventures and yummy chicken! Sampson also does his best to conserve energy!”

When we were done with family photos he made his way to his favourite spot under the deck chair and did some intensive energy conservation.