Tootie the cat special companion after Anne Sherwood’s cancer diagnosis
Tootie’s resounding success at Tassie cat shows hasn’t got to his head, stepping up to the plate when owner was diagnosed with cancer. Now, he’s has a special celebration coming up.
Tasmania
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Mayatiki Xanthus — otherwise known as Tootie — may be one of the most prize-winning felines competing in Tasmania, but the chocolate pointer birman’s best efforts might be away from the cat showing realm.
When his owner, Glenorchy’s Anne Sherwood, was diagnosed with breast cancer on July 25 last year, Tootie readily offered support.
“During my recovery from breast cancer he’s been my constant companion — he’s just been amazing,” Mrs Sherwood said.
Tootie would follow Mrs Sherwood, ready to sit or lay next to her, and often on top of her.
Having finished radiation and with doctors unable to find any more cancer, Mrs Sherwood is in the preventive stage for the next five years.
On Sunday, it will be time to celebrate Tootie at Tas Feline Association’s first show of the year. Not only does it coincide with his 10th birthday, but will be his final competition as he enters retirement.
His longevity over 10-years is unique, Mrs Sherwood said.
“He’s 10 years and still winning,” she said
“If you’ve got a cat on the bench for two to three years you’re doing well.”
His success comes down to top-notch grooming so he looks “perfect, nice and fluffy, and clean”.
After Sunday though, he will live a life of luxury — more so than he does now, she said
“He won’t have to show groom every few weeks,” she said.
Mrs Sherwood has participated in cat shows for 20-years and says the secret is the friends made along the way.
“You can have good and bad days, but at the end of it you get to take the best cat home,” she said.
“The TFA (Tasmanian Feline Association) have been amazing, they’re so friendly and helpful.”
The TFA’s Australia Day Cat Show will be held on Sunday, February 2 at Campania Memorial Hall.
Tootie won’t be easy to miss, with helium balloons to be tied to his cage for the special occasion.
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Originally published as Tootie the cat special companion after Anne Sherwood’s cancer diagnosis
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