A cat named after the beloved British sitcom The Vicar of Dibley has just celebrated his remarkable 25th birthday, making him one of the oldest cats in the country.
Dibbley, who lives in Norton Fitzwarren, Somerset, was treated to a special birthday celebration, receiving a new collar, a can of tuna, and a packet of treats to mark the occasion. Despite his advanced age, Dibbley appears to be in good health, spending most of his days enjoying naps and eating.
His owners attribute his long life to his diet, which includes fish-flavored cat food, along with the occasional treat of salmon. Dibbley was named after the white mark below his chin that resembles a dog collar, a feature that led to his unique name. He has been part of the same family since he was a kitten, joining Caroline Riley and her son Rean about ten years ago after being taken in from an ex-partner.
Rean Douglas, who primarily looks after Dibbley, spoke with BBC Radio Somerset’s Charlie Taylor on Breakfast, explaining how the cat has slowed down with age. “He does like to sleep, but he’ll stretch around in his sleep and scare himself awake,” Rean said. “He still jumps up on me and cuddles—he’s still a very cuddly guy.”
Caroline Riley, Dibbley’s owner, shared her surprise at his longevity, saying, “I didn’t think he’d go this long!” She credits his long life to a well-known brand of fish-flavored cat food and adds salmon oil to his diet to maintain his glossy coat.
To mark his 25th milestone, Dibbley was spoiled with a special birthday package, including a bag of Dreamies, a tin of tuna, a new collar, and some tasty cat licks.
The oldest known cat in the UK is 27 years old and resides in London, while the record for the oldest cat ever is held by Creme Puff, a Texas cat who lived to 38. With his good health, Dibbley is certainly not far behind.
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