This blog was written by cattery volunteer Peter East.

The staff at Mayhew are so dedicated and passionate about the animals and they make you feel very valid as a volunteer. It’s a pleasure being part of the team.

I have been around cats nearly all my life… My parents always had cats and now I have two rescues myself – Tammy and Triby. About seven years ago, I decided to volunteer at Mayhew and have been spending time in the cattery ever since.

My role in the cattery is to socialise with the cats.  Every cat has a different personality and I usually start off by sitting in the cabin with them and talking to them. This encourages them to come over to me – it takes practice but it usually works. They have to interact on their own terms! I also practice singing to the cats. I think they like it and I’ve had no complaints so far…

Pete and Trixie

Our head of cattery, Kayleigh, told us “Pete kindly gives up his time twice a week to volunteer on the cattery as a cat socialiser. This role involves him interacting with the cats making sure they have company and providing them with enrichment during their stay until they find their new homes. One of Pete’s other passions is singing and you’ll often find a very content cat curled up on his lap while he’s quietly singing along to the classical music station we have on in the cattery.”