19-year-old cat who 'loves dozing in the sun' in search of retirement home

A 19-year-old cat waiting for a loving home in Norfolk currently holds the title of the oldest feline at Cats Protection.

Charlie, who has been chosen as the poster cat for the charity’s Mature Moggies Day on Sunday, resides at Cats Protection East Norfolk Cat Centre where he is patiently waiting to be rehomed.

Charlie had been with his previous owner since he was a kitten but a change in family circumstances meant he found himself at the adoption centre in Dereham.

Charlie is described as a 'handsome chap who loves to doze away in the sunshine' (Image: Cats Protection) Emily Wenham, senior rehoming and welfare assistant, said: “Charlie would love nothing more than a retirement home and loves a fuss once he gets to know you.

"He likes a small amount of outside time, so a home with a garden would be ideal, but he really enjoys his home comforts and being indoors.

“He is a lovely handsome chap who loves to doze away in the sunshine.

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Charlie is in good health for his age  (Image: Cats Protection) "He’s had some dental work while he’s been with us but other than that he is in good health for his age.”

Better vet treatments and care mean pet cats are living longer than ever, with the average life expectancy in the UK now 11.7 years.

Two years ago, Cats Protection helped rehome Flossie, who was recognised by Guinness World Records as the oldest living cat just weeks before her 27th birthday.

Rosie the cat, with owner Lila (l) and Sarah Price from the cat cafe in Dereham Road (r) (Image: Denise Bradley) However, Norwich may in fact be home to the oldest cat in the world after a city feline named Rosie reportedly celebrated her 32nd birthday last June.

The oldest cat ever recorded was Creme Puff of Austin, Texas, who lived until August 6, 2005, reaching 38 years and 3 days old.

Anyone interested in adopting Charlie should visit www.cats.org.uk/dereham for more information on the adoption process.