Celebrating Feline Heroes: Meet Marley, Cat of the Year 2026

The National Cat Awards, presented annually by Cats Protection, is a joyous celebration of the UK’s most extraordinary cats. This year’s ceremony was held on September 18 in London, hosted by best-selling author Dawn O’Porter, and shone a spotlight on incredible cats who bring warmth, support, and smiles to those around them.

National Cat of the Year 2026: Marley

Marley, a seven-year-old black-and-white moggy, was awarded the prestigious title of National Cat of the Year 2024 in the UK, and the Incredible Cats Category winner.

Residing at Caritas Bakhita House, a safe house for women who have endured exploitation, enslavement, and trafficking, Marley has become an anchor of solace for the 11 women from diverse backgrounds who call the house home. According to Karen, a representative from Bakhita House, Marley’s gentle nature offers the first sense of kindness that many guests experience upon arrival. Marley, who was adopted after a history of abuse himself, is particularly sensitive to the guests' trauma, often reaching out with a gentle paw to comfort them.

One woman was in such distress when she arrived at the safe house that she could not speak to any of the human supporters. But, she immediately trusted Marley, and over time, the team was able to build a bridge and help her, thanks to this incredible cat.

Beyond his emotional support role, Marley takes on various duties at Bakhita House as the “staff supervisor,” “security guard,” and “chief gardener”—though no one is allowed near his patch of daisies. His presence is so beloved that he even joins the residents at dinner each evening, earning his place as the heart of this resilient community.

“In art therapy, he’s a popular muse,” Karen explains. “One guest even composed a song for him.”

And, he’s no stranger to group dinners. When the staff sit down for their 7 pm meal, Marley joins them and makes it a family-style event each night.

“He’s the fluffy heart of our home.”

Meet the Other Finalists

Family Cats Category Finalist: Zara

Finalist of the Family Cats Category, 10-year-old Zara is more than just a pet to her family and the congregation at St John the Evangelist in Bexley. Adopted by vicar Edward Barlow and his wife, Kate, Zara has a deep bond with their autistic son, Elliot, offering him calmness and companionship. Zara’s sense of purpose extends beyond the family home as she consoles mourners at funerals, offers comfort at church services, and even attends choir practice.

“At church services, Zara heckles during my sermons then finds a comfy lap in the congregation to settle on,” Reverend Barlow shared.  “Our services were live-streamed on the church’s Facebook page through the pandemic and always received far more views if Zara was on my shoulder. She loves to be in wedding photographs and chip in, very assertively, during meetings.”

Reverend Edward explained how Zara intuitively connects with people in need, a quality she displays both within her family and the wider church community. She seems to understand when people need her comfort and is always there to help.

“Zara is central to our family and the wider church family, she truly is a Godsend.”

Connected Cats Category Finalist: Cilla

The Connected Cats Category finalist is Cilla, a beloved school cat at Outwoods Primary in Warwickshire. Since she showed up at the school six years ago, she has become a trusted companion to students, teachers, and even a community of 25,000 followers on X (Twitter).

Known for her calming presence, Cilla helps anxious students relax during exams and greets everyone in the mornings. Her social media stardom is so widespread that for her birthday, fans sent books worth £5,000 to Outwoods’ library.

“

is the first name on our staff list, ahead of me,” says headteacher Sally Taylor. “Our pupils are very calm and that’s down to Cilla. They know school is a safe place because she chooses to live here.”

Senior Cats Category Finalist: Dave

The finalist for the Senior Cats Category, 21-year-old Dave—fondly known as Miss Dave Mittens—was celebrated for her loyalty and playful spirit. Owned by Tom Witney and his partner Greville Matthews, Dave has been part of their lives since she was a stray kitten with a broken leg.

“The secret of Dave’s long life, I think, is good moggy genes and how well she has trained Grev and me. The pitch of her meow is slightly higher when she wants food or a fuss and we respond to her demands immediately,” shares Tom.

Now a graceful senior, Dave is as adored as ever, even appearing in Tom’s PhD acknowledgments as a cherished study buddy. Tom and Greville credit Dave’s remarkable longevity to her “moggy genes” and the devoted care they provide.

About Cats Protection

Cats Protection is the UK’s largest feline welfare charity, helping an average of 157,000 cats and kittens every year. They have a network of over 210 volunteer-run branches and 34 centers that help make these numbers possible.

Founded in 1927, Cats Protection has championed the welfare and companionship of cats, rehoming over two million cats in nearly 100 years. With their network of volunteers and centers, they continue to spread their message of kindness and compassion across the UK, reminding us of the comfort and joy that feline friends bring to our lives.

Head to their website to learn more about them or click here to learn how you can donate and support their efforts.

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