Leslie Greenhough from Stockport is celebrating the milestone 30th birthday of his beloved tortoiseshell cat, Millie, who he believes to be the world’s oldest living feline.
Millie was originally adopted by Leslie’s late wife, Paula, in 1995, when she was just a three-month-old kitten. Over the years, Leslie has become Millie’s primary caregiver and believes her incredible longevity is thanks to a loving environment and a special diet.
“Her secret to long life is simple: plenty of attention, love, and a diet of salmon, mini prawns, warm chicken, and bottled water,” Leslie explained. “She’s also been known to indulge in a little Chinese spare rib every now and then.”
Leslie attributes Millie’s healthy life to the affection he showers her with. “I give her lots of love and affection, and that’s what’s led to a long, healthy life,” he said.
Now, Leslie is hoping to have Millie’s remarkable age recognized by the Guinness World Records. However, because Millie has never been to the vet and there were no photos taken of pets at the time of her adoption, Leslie faces challenges in verifying her age. “The only person who can verify her age is my late wife, Paula,” he shared.
Despite these hurdles, Leslie remains determined to get Millie into the record books in honor of his late wife’s memory. “My best aim is to get her into the records for the sake of my wife,” he said.
The previous oldest recorded cat passed away in 2005 at the age of 38 years and three days. Millie, however, continues to thrive, and Leslie speaks fondly of the companionship she provides, especially after the death of his wife. “She follows me everywhere. I’m always here. The longest I’ve ever been away from her is two days,” Leslie said.
“She gives me compassion back. It’s company for me.”
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