An Introduction to Raphael in Eight Questions (and Answers)

Welcome to the Wednesday Cats of Catster! Every week, we share a story from one of our cat-loving Catsters. This week is about Wes and his fiercely cuddly Russian Blue, Raphael.

When we last left off, I told you all about only two elements of Raphael’s personality: one, an obsession for all things consumable, and two, a drive to snuggle that would make an Antarctic Emperor Penguin proud (if you haven’t seen them, you’re missing out). As I mentioned, though, that’s just the very surface of our story, and there’s so much more to my little four-legged companion. Today, I thought a question-and-answer session would be the perfect way to get you properly up to speed with all things Raphy. Now bear in mind, if you hate any questions, he insisted on them. Also, he was very insistent on the answers, too. Basically, any and all criticism should be directed his way.

The 8 Questions to Introduce Raphael:

1. What breed is Raphael?

Raphael is a Russian Blue. As he is our first cat as adults, my partner (Steph) and I wanted to ensure we had the right breed for us. We’d been told that Russian Blues combined close companionship with a lot of intelligence – and boy were they right!

2. Is Raphael a male or female cat?

Raphael is a male cat. At least, that’s what the vet told us. If he isn’t, then castrating him was a huge mistake!

3. Who on Earth calls a cat ‘Raphael’?

This is the question we get asked the most. Steph and I both love art and exhibitions. In fact, our second date (when I was living in Hong Kong) took place at a Chinese calligraphy exhibition. In the summer of 2022, the National Gallery in London held an exhibition of Raphael’s works (which, incidentally, was excellent). A few weeks later, when a small but regal gray bundle of fur came into our lives, we knew what an honor it would be for the Italian Renaissance painter if he were to share a name with this beautiful boy before us.

4. When is Raphael’s birthday?

20th May 2022. He’s really hoping that this means you’ll be sending gifts his way. He gently reminds you to read the other answers thoroughly so that you don’t mess it up and get him something he has to return.

5. What does Raphael love?

The vet (and Catster’s experts) told us a little while ago that to keep Raphy healthy into old age, it would be optimal if we could get him used to having his teeth brushed. Well, I have to say, far beyond being used to it – he now adores it! At the end of the day, when we brush our teeth, he comes running, too!

6. What does Raphael hate?

Raphael is the bravest scaredy cat you’ve ever met, especially when an unknown visitor is at the door. Before they enter, he’s all bravado and bluster – running to the door and getting as close to the action as he can. After all, he’s training to take on guard-cat duty. Then, as soon as the stranger(s) step foot inside, he’s hustling his furs away. He especially hates unknown men, for some reason. Looks like guard-cat duty is a while away yet!

7. Who’s the spare human?

You know the answer. I’ll get in trouble if I say anything out of line here. It’s an undeniable, incontrovertible truth that I am the spare human, and Steph is number one. (That is the official party line and I’m sticking to it, no matter what).

8. What’s his favorite toy?

His Hepper Hi Lo of course! Although I’m biased, we have a number of them dotted throughout the apartment, much to his approval, and it’s always exciting to see him using it – whether it’s the first scratch or the hundredth. I love the sense that he’s working out any frustrations (you got it, he got told it wasn’t lunchtime yet) and getting a good muscle stretch in, too.

And there’s so much more to know…

Hopefully that canter through a couple of questions was illuminating and interesting, but when it comes to our journey with Raphy, there are endless things to share! If you have any suggestions for what topics you want to discuss in this space, please leave a comment and let me know. Also, I’d love to hear your answers to the questions above, too! Let me and Raphy know what tickles the whiskers of your lovely little four-legged friends. Who knows, your answers might give us some inspiration for those between-meal times!