Discover the new Cat Treats range that’s shaking up treat time across Australia!

Imagine this: A treat that’s not only packed with lip-smacking flavour, but also loaded with protein to fuel endless purrs and top-tier cat-titude all day long! 

What is this treat we hear you shout? It’s the all-new Breeder’s Choice Tasty Cat Treats range. That’s right… Breeder’s Choice not only make the best cat litter around; they also deliver the goods when it comes to delicious treats.

Crafted with love in regional Australia, these irresistible treats are made from 100% Aussie-sourced meat — no artificial flavours, colours, or preservatives. Just pure, natural goodness that your feline friend won’t be able to resist and will be demanding more after the first bite.

Not only are the treats cat shaped (which is a very cute touch), with four scrumptious flavours to try, these treats will have your cat salivating for more. Treat time just got a whole lot more exciting in the feline world! The range includes 120g canisters in the following flavours:

✔️ Beef with Herb and Catnip

✔️ Chicken & Blueberries with Catnip

✔️ Chicken & Tuna with Egg

✔️ Duck with Rosemary with Catnip

But don’t take our word for it! Here’s what some of our fans have to say:

Chelsea – Crazy Cat Café, Gold Coast

Photo: @crazy_cat_cafe

“When I shook the canisters of treats, all the cats ran over like a furry stampede to see what was on offer. I dished up each flavour and all the cats devoured each and every little cat shaped treat. 

These cats are picky, so I was so surprised and impressed all at the same time. 

Breeder’s Choice have definitely delivered on these treats, and we will continue to give them to the cats- they were clearly very yummy. Crazy Cat Café approved, no crumbs left behind.”


Amy – Noosa Country Cat Hotel, Sunshine Coast

“We always love to try anything new on the market for cats and when we saw Breeder’s Choice had launched a cat treat range we were so excited to test them, as we have been avid users of their litter for years. It’s great because there are four flavours, so something for all the different cats tastes. I must say, the Chicken and Blueberries were an instant hit, closely followed by all the other flavours. 

Photo (supplied): @noosa_country_cat_hotel

These will now be a staple treat we will be serving up for our cat guests… delicious and healthy… what more could they want?”

A Game-Changer in Cat Treat Packaging: Eco-Friendly Canisters!

Our treat canisters are leading the charge in sustainable pet care. These innovative containers are made from 70% recycled materials, making them the first of their kind in the cat treat market.

But that’s not all—60% of the packaging is crafted from post-consumer paper board, and we use water-based adhesive to seal the packs, ensuring that every aspect of our packaging is as eco-conscious as possible. 

It’s a small change that makes a big difference for pets, people and planet.

A word from Ginger, Breeder’s Choice Ambassador

Paws up, fellow fur-iends! As a savvy cat who's all about quality treats, let me tell you why Breeder's Choice Treats are the ultimate snack for us!

First off, they're proudly Australian-made, which means we're supporting our local businesses while getting the tastiest, most paw-some treats around. 

And the best part? They're packed with all-natural ingredients and loaded with protein—perfect for keeping us strong, healthy, and always ready for the next epic adventure (or nap... whatever comes first).

So, next time you're eyeing that treat shelf, just give your human a little nudge and let them know —  Breeder's Choice Treats are where it’s at!

Where to Buy:

RRP: $6.99. Breeder’s Choice Tasty Treats range are now available in store and online at Woolworths, IGA and selected pet retailers.

‍To find out more, head to www.breederschoicecats.com.au

About Breeder’s Choice Cats

For over three decades, Breeder’s Choice has been keeping Aussie cats and kittens content, providing them with high-quality, sustainable products that also care for our planet. As Australia’s #1 cat litter brand, we take pride in our commitment to both your feline family and the environment.

Our mission is simple: to create products that are not only good for your cat but also kind to the earth.

MEDIA RELEASE, 11th October 2024

Partner vs Pet: Aussie animal lovers confess who comes out on top as results from Dr Chris Brown's National Pet Census are revealed

Results from Dr Chris Brown’s Drooly Important Pet Census released today 30,000 Aussie pet owners took part in Dr Chris’ pet census.

Almost three-quarters of Australian pet owners have confessed they turn to their animals instead of their human partner for emotional support, according to the results of Dr. Chris Brown’s National Pet Census.

Dr. Chris Brown’s Drooly Important Pet Census which runs in collaboration with the vet’s pet information and product site Drool by Dr. Chris Brown, has revealed a number of heart-warming (and at times, hilarious) findings that firmly place the furriest family member as the most important relationship we have in our lives.

A remarkable 30,000 Australians completed the census which also revealed our take on pet sleeping arrangements, hygiene habits and the cost of living effects impacting many Australians. 

Interestingly though, despite the cost pressures, 81% of pet parents aren’t spending any less on their furry friends.

The quirky role they play in our lives also makes for interesting reading. A remarkable 58% of us share a bed with pets. While another 18% sleep in the bedroom! And we’re certainly attached with 32% admitting to kissing on the lips!

In the most controversial statistic, 40% people admitted to putting their dog’s poo bag in someone else’s bin. Whilst ’60% of people lied’ Chris joked…

In a heart-warming twist post-Covid, more people, 49%, found their furry family member through a shelter, a vet hospital or a rescue organisation compared to 43% from a breeder.

“The results of this year’s Pet Census are in and wow. I knew we cared deeply about our best friends. But I didn’t expect just how integral pets are to Australian’s health and happiness.” Dr Chris said. 

“When you look at the data in detail, you realise just how dependent we are on them. They complete us. They also reveal our quirky side!”

First launched in 2016 after Dr. Chris became frustrated that not a single question was asked about the nation’s pets during that year’s National (human) Population Census, the popular vet immediately took to social media to launch his own. This year’s survey marks the third time Dr. Chris has run the online survey.

“In a country with such a large (and loved) pet population, we need accurate data to ensure our pet’s needs are accounted for by councils and governments. Pets who are well socialised and exercised are a joy to own. 

Yet only 38% of pet parents felt there were enough exercise options in their local area” Dr Chris said.

According to the data, 26% of people also requested more pet-friendly cafes and restaurants above all else. While a remarkable 80% of people were in favour of pets being able to fly in the cabin of domestic flights.

“I’d encourage all councils and government bodies to take a look at the vital role pets play in our society. They clearly offer emotional support, ease loneliness and make us happier and healthier” Dr Chris said. “They should be rewarded for this positive health impact and not regulated out of our lives”.

A summary of Dr Chris’ 2024 Pet Census’ most interesting stats include:

• 80% of respondents think that pets should be allowed in the cabin of domestic flights;
• 73% of pet owners know the exact date of their furry friend’s birthday and celebrate it every year;
• 58% of respondents say their pet sleeps on the bed;
• 82% said it would NOT be a deal breaker if their partner insisted on having their pet sleep in the bed;
• 32% of pet owners kiss their animal on the lips;
• And, when it comes to the most popular religion for Aussie animals, 45% of owners say their pet believes in the “snack god”!

“Even though I love my TV hosting roles, my first love is being a vet and I still practice to this day,” Dr. Chris said. “I’d encourage my fellow vets right around the country to take a close look at the results of this year’s Pet Census to help them gain a better insight into how our furry friends are living. It’s all about keeping our Aussie pets happy and keeping Australia pet-friendly!”

About Drool by Dr. Chris Brown

 

dr0ol.pet is the home of the popular vet’s pet insights and products, which have quickly become the cult, must- have treats, washes and care products (for ears, anxiety and gut health) for Australian dogs and cats. 

Bowing to demand, the range is now available in over 450 Petbarn and Petstock stores and exported overseas. 

Most importantly for Chris, he still works as a vet at his beloved Bondi Junction Vet Hospital where the inspiration for his social posts, products and his award winning TV show Bondi Vet have come from.

MEDIA RELEASE, 10th October 2024

Pet Obesity is on the Rise: A Growing Concern for Australian Pet Parents

For World Pet Obesity Awareness Week (7-13 October 2024), Pet Insurance Australia is highlighting an urgent concern facing pet owners nationwide: the increasing pet obesity rate. Now is the time to shed a spotlight on our pets' bulging problems!

"According to the latest 2024 PetSure Pet Health Monitor, obesity remains a prevalent issue for pets, with serious health implications," Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia says. "The report reveals that more than half of all pets in Australia are overweight or obese, a condition that can significantly reduce their quality of life and lifespan."

The Social Media Influence: Fat Cats Are No Laughing Matter

Social media platforms have contributed to a rising trend in portraying overweight pets, particularly cats, as humorous or cute. While these "fat cat" posts may garner likes and shares, they obscure the real dangers associated with pet obesity.

"Sadly, this phenomenon normalises unhealthy weight, making it harder for pet owners to recognise when their pets are at risk," Crighton says. 

"An overweight pet is a sick pet, and owners need to understand the future repercussions of allowing their beloved furry family members to remain overweight."

The Dangers of Obesity in Pets

Obesity is far from just a cosmetic issue for pets.

"Overweight pets face an increased risk of numerous health issues, including diabetes, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers."

For example, arthritis treatment can cost up to $12,387 annually, while cancer treatments can range as high as $37,133*.

"These conditions shorten a pet's lifespan and lead to significant physical discomfort and emotional distress for both pets and owners."

How to Tell if Your Pet is Overweight

One key challenge for pet owners is recognising when their pets are overweight. Veterinarians suggest using the Body Condition Score (BCS), a visual and tactile assessment that ranks a pet's body composition on a scale of 1 to 9.

"Ideally, a pet should have a BCS of 4 or 5. You should be able to feel your pet's ribs without excess fat, and when viewed from above, your pet should have a noticeable waist," Crighton says. 

"Your veterinarian will be able to tell you if your pet falls in these ranges and what steps you can take if your pet is exhibiting any signs of obesity."

Preventing Pet Obesity: Simple Steps

Prevention is the best strategy when it comes to pet obesity.

✔️ Balanced Diet: Ensure your pet receives a nutritionally balanced diet appropriate for their size, breed, and activity level. Avoid overfeeding or giving too many treats.

✔️ Exercise: Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight. Whether it's daily walks for dogs or playtime for cats, keeping your pet active helps burn calories and improve overall health.

✔️ Portion Control: Measure your pet's food and follow the feeding guidelines provided by your vet. Avoid feeding human food, which often contains excess calories and unhealthy ingredients.

When Do I Need To See a Vet?

If you suspect your pet is overweight or obese, it's crucial to seek veterinary advice. They will happily help you beat your pet's bulge with some great unjudgmental advice to ensure the health of your pet.

"A vet can provide a tailored diet and exercise plan to help your pet return to a healthy weight," Crighton says. "Early intervention can prevent the development of serious conditions such as diabetes or arthritis, ultimately saving on treatment costs and improving your pet's quality of life."

The Importance of Routine Monitoring

Regular vet check-ups are essential for monitoring your pet's weight and overall health.

"Delaying visits due to cost or time constraints can intensify underlying health problems," Crighton suggests. 

"Early detection of weight-related issues can lead to better outcomes and reduce long-term veterinary expenses. With the current cost of living affecting many Australian pet lovers, getting on top of issues like obesity can be a game changer for your pet's health and your veterinary expenses, particularly as your pet ages."

* 2024 PetSure Pet Health Monitor

MEDIA RELEASE, 8th October 2024

Related Stories:

10 Tips to Avoid Pet Obesity

How to Care for your Senior Cat

Swaggle launches search to find Australia's Happiest Pet

Australia’s happiest online pet store, Swaggle, is on the hunt for Australia’s happiest pet! 

In order to find the pinnacle of pet happiness, Swaggle is asking Australians to nominate their beloved companions for a chance to see their pet star on their own billboard and go in the draw to win $5,000* worth of Swaggle products.

Launching on Tuesday 1st October 2024, Aussie pet parents are encouraged to submit a video, photo or written entry that answers how they go above and beyond to spoil their pet and showcases their pet at its happiest via the Swaggle website. 

Whether it’s a puppy being pampered at a day spa, a cat eating a meal worthy of a Michelin star or a feathered friend in its pimped-out cage, Swaggle wants to see how you spoil your pet, the more extravagant the better.

Veterinarian Dr Abby Main (MD DVM BBiomedSc) hopes that this search leads to more Australians openly sharing their secrets on how to help their pet get their Swaggle on, raising rates of pet happiness across the country.

“Since the pandemic, we have seen a rise in the rates of pet anxiety and the associated behavioural problems alongside it [1]. Swaggle’s search for Australia’s happiest pet shines a light on the day-to-day choices we can make to improve our pet’s lives,” Dr Main said.

“Pet happiness is paramount to a happy home. When your pet is happy it leads to a reduction in destructive behaviour, a healthier pet and may reduce vet bills, and ensures your pet lives a longer, happier life.”

Photo Credit: Swaggle Facebook page

On October 21, the Swaggle team will select the top entrants based on creativity and allow the public to vote for who they think is Australia’s happiest pet on its Instagram, ensuring everyone can get in on the fun and indulge in pet happiness. 

Swaggle will then crown Australia’s happiest pet on November 11, announcing the lucky winner to the public on a billboard worthy of any celebrity.

Chad Burke, Head of Swaggle said: “Delivering pet happiness is a core part of Swaggle’s DNA and Swaggle is proud to put pet happiness at the forefront of its business model. I am really excited to see the competition entries and discover how Australian’s make their pet happy every day. I couldn’t think of a more deserving billboard than Australia’s happiest pet!”

Swaggle, which launched in January this year, is an online pet store on a mission to deliver pet happiness. A swaggle is defined as the exact moment your pet displays happiness through joyful movement and, as such, the brand was created to provide a new level of personalisation to help pets live their lives to the fullest.

Australians are known to love their pets, with 98% of owners [2] saying that their pets have had a positive impact on their life. Now it’s time for owners to showcase how they repay the favour.

Parents of Australia’s happiest pet hopefuls can enter the competition at www.Swaggle.com.au/happiest-pet. 

Voting will take place on Swaggle’s Instagram @swaggle_pets.

1 National Library of Medicine, Veterinary Science, 2023

     1 Report can be read in full here
2 Victorian Pet Census 2023
    1.1 Report can be viewed here
    1.2 The Census was held in July 2023 and received 37,460 responses (2).

About Swaggle

Australia's happiest online pet store. Swaggle exists to deliver pet happiness to every doorstep with a wide range of Australia's leading brands, personalised product suggestions and free vet advice. Swaggle is a new business aiming to make you and your pet's life easier, so they can live life to the fullest.

Swaggle is home to 100 categories of products from over 190 brands, including Royal Canin, Advance, Ivory Coat, Black Hawk, Nexguard Spectra, Lifewise and Hill’s Science Diet, catering to dogs, cats, birds, small pets like rabbits and guinea pigs, and fish.

Swaggle has partnered with Flybuys to collect 2 points per $1 you spend on Auto-Delivery orders, and 1 point per $1 you spend on other purchases.^
Swaggle also offers pet insurance, which is underwritten and Issued by Guild Insurance.

* Open to Aus residents 18+. Starts: 7 am AEST 01.10.24. Ends: 11:59 pm AEDT 20.10.24. Total prize value = $7K. 5 finalists selected based on creativity & notified on Instagram 22.10.24. 1 x winner selected based on public vote 3 pm 23.10.24. Winner must be available for billboard shoot in their closest capital city between 25.10.24 – 30.10.24. See full t&cs here.

^ Excludes delivery fees, insurance and paid vet services. Flybuys points cannot be redeemed at Swaggle.

MEDIA RELEASE, 1st October 2024

Ticking Time Bomb: Urgent Warning as Tick Season Hits

As the tick season escalates across Australia, Pet Insurance Australia urgently advises pet owners to take immediate steps to safeguard their beloved pets from the lethal paralysis tick. 

The unusual combination of warm and wet weather conditions has set the stage for what could be one of the most severe tick seasons in recent memory. With thousands of pets in jeopardy, swift action is imperative.

"Paralysis ticks can be fatal if left untreated," warns Nadia Crighton, spokesperson for Pet Insurance Australia. This season, with the current weather conditions, veterinary clinics are expected to see a surge in tick outbreaks across the country. Pet owners need to be not just vigilant, but proactive in prevention. Your actions can make a significant difference in your pet's safety."

Image of a female Paralysis Tick
 (Ixodes Holocyclus)

The Australian paralysis tick is one of the most dangerous parasites affecting dogs and cats. 

When a tick attaches to an animal, it injects a toxin that can cause life-threatening paralysis, which often starts with weakness in the back legs, a change in voice, or excessive drooling. 

The condition can rapidly escalate, affecting breathing and leading to death if not treated in time.

Current Tick Season: A Growing Threat

According to recent data from veterinary clinics across Sydney, the number of reported tick paralysis cases has already surpassed last year's figures*. Areas close to bushland or the coast, such as Terrey Hills, Turramurra, and the Blue Mountains, are seeing a surge in cases. The University of Queensland's research also highlights that spring, particularly in Sydney's northern beaches, is the peak danger period for ticks.

"Now is the time for pet owners to take action and ensure their pets are safe," Crighton says. "Tick conditions are expected to increase drastically over the next few months."

According to the 2024 Pet Health Monitor report by PetSure, tick paralysis is a significant worry for pet owners in Australia, particularly in regions like New South Wales. The report underscores the escalating treatment costs, with average claims for tick paralysis treatment exceeding $1,000 for dogs and $900 for cats. 

However, in severe cases, costs have skyrocketed to more than $5,000 for cats and over $24,000 for dogs*.

This season is expected to be particularly harsh due to a longer and earlier tick season, with peak months between August and January.

The report emphasises the importance of prevention, urging pet owners to use tick preventatives and regularly check their pets for ticks, as treatment can be costly and potentially life-threatening. Proactively using products such as tick collars, spot-on treatments, or chewable tablets can significantly reduce the risk.

"Given these findings, it's critical for pet owners to stay vigilant and consult with their vets to ensure their pets are protected throughout this extended tick season."

Prevention Tips

To protect pets during this heightened tick season, Pet Insurance Australia recommends the following preventive measures:

✔️ Use Tick Preventatives: Administer regular preventatives such as chewable tablets or tick collars. Many products offer up to three months of protection.

✔️ Regular Tick Checks: Inspect your pets daily, especially after outdoor activities. 

Run your fingers through their fur and focus on areas like the neck, ears, and under the collar. This simple yet crucial practice can help you detect and remove ticks before they cause harm.

✔️ Tick-Friendly Areas: Avoid high-risk areas such as bushlands and tall grass. If you live in or near these areas, ensure your yard is well-maintained and free from debris that could harbour ticks.

✔️ Veterinary Care: If you notice signs of tick paralysis, such as wobbliness, difficulty breathing, or a change in voice, seek veterinary care immediately. 

Paralysis ticks can cause rapid deterioration, and treatment with antiserum may be necessary.

Crighton emphasises, "Tick prevention is not just an option—it's necessary during this critical season. 

We urge all pet owners to act before it's too late."

* https://www.mosmanvet.com.au/tick-season-has-begun-is-your-pet-protected/
* https://petsure.com.au/pet-health-monitor/

MEDIA RELEASE, 1st October 2024

Related Stories:

How to Protect your Cat from Tick Paralysis in Australia

Curiosity Poisons the Cat: Common Cat Toxicities

Cat Flea Protection: Starting from Scratch!

Our October 2024 Cat Lovers Book Club is out! Discover our top picks of the latest cat books with a bumper selection for kids for these school holidays and some suggestions to get an early start on your Christmas shopping list.

WE’LL PRESCRIBE YOU A CAT
The feel good Japanese bestselling book
by Ishida Syou

Discover the award-winning bestselling Japanese novel that has become an international sensation in this utterly charming celebration of the healing power of cats.

A cat a day keeps the doctor away...

On the top floor of an old building at the end of a cobbled alley in Kyoto lies the Kokoro Clinic for the Soul. Only a select few - those who feel genuine emotional pain - can find it. The mysterious centre offers a unique treatment for its troubled patients: it prescribes cats as medication.

Get ready to fall in love:
- Bee, an eight-year-old female, mixed breed helps a disheartened businessman as he finds unexpected joy in physical labour;
- Margot, muscly like a lightweight boxer, helps a middle-aged callcentre worker stay relevant at work and at home;
- Koyuki, an exquisite white cat brings closure to a young mother troubled by the memory of the rescue kitten she was forced to abandon;
- Tank and Tangerine bring peace to a hardened handbag designer, as she learns to be kinder to herself;
- Mimita, the Scottish Fold kitten helps a broken-hearted Geisha to stop blaming herself for the cat she lost years ago;

As the clinic's patients navigate their inner turmoil and seek resolution, their feline companions lead them towards healing, self-discovery and newfound hope.

Contains five exquisite cat line-drawings.

Hardcover, 256 pages
Publisher: Penguin Books Australia, Imprint: Doubleday, 3rd September 2024

RRP: $32.99 from all good bookstores and online. For stockists, visit www.penguin.com.au

MY BELOVED MONSTER
Masha, the Half-Wild Rescue Cat Who Rescued Me
by Caleb Carr

Caleb Carr has had special relationships with cats since he was a young boy in a turbulent household, famously peopled by the founding members of the Beat Generation, where his steadiest companions were the adopted cats that lived with him both in the city and the country. 

As an adult, he has had many close feline companions, with relationships that have outlasted most of his human ones. But only after building a three-story home in rural, upstate New York did he enter into the most extraordinary of all of his cat pairings: Masha, a Siberian Forest cat who had been abandoned as a kitten, and was languishing in a shelter when Caleb met her. She had hissed and fought off all previous carers and potential adopters, but somehow, she chose Caleb as her saviour.

For the seventeen years that followed, Caleb and Masha were inseparable. Masha ruled the house and the extensive, dangerous surrounding fields and forests. When she was hurt, only Caleb could help her. When he suffered long-standing physical ailments, Masha knew what to do. Caleb's life-long study of the literature of cat behaviour, and his years of experience with previous cats, helped him decode much of Masha's inner life. But their bond went far beyond academic studies and experience. 

The story of Caleb and Masha is an inspiring and life-affirming relationship for readers of all backgrounds and interests--a love story like no other.

Hardcover, 352 pages
Publisher: Little Brown and Company, 16th April 2024

Price: $36.57 from www.amazon.com.au

CAT OF MANY TAILS
by Ellery Queen, Richard Dannay (Introduction by)

In the dog days of August, it is no surprise to see New Yorkers perspire. But this summer, a killer called the Cat gives the city a new reason to sweat. He selects his victims seemingly at random and strangles them, then escapes without leaving a clue. As the death toll climbs and the press whips the public into a horrified frenzy, Gotham teeters on the edge of anarchy.

Ellery Queen, the brilliant amateur sleuth, has gone into retirement when the Cat begins to kill. As his father, a seasoned homicide detective, leads the investigation into the murders, Ellery tries to avoid getting involved. When Queen discovers a clue that could hold the secret to untangling the puzzling crimes, he pounces on the opportunity to crack the case. But unfortunately for him-and for the citizens of 1940s New York City - he's barely scratched the surface....

Combining gobsmacking deduction with plenty of period detail, The Cat of Many Tails is among the most beloved of Ellery Queen's timeless mystery novels. Reissued for the first time in nearly half a century, the book retains a place in popular culture as one of the first serial killer novels ever written; and, to this day, it's still one of the best.

Paperback, 288 pages
Publisher: W W Norton & Company, 17th September 2024

Price: $23.95 at www.amazon.com.au

OH. IT’S YOU.
Love Poems by Cats
by Francesco Marciuliano

From the author of the beloved I Could Pee On This series comes a new book of hilarious love poems from cats to their people.

Cats have so many ways to say "I love you." Sometimes it's a gentle purr and a slow blink. Sometimes it's a tiny dead animal offered in tribute. And sometimes, it's expressed in that deepest of cat love languages: poetry.

The author of the internationally bestselling series of tongue-in-cheek poetry helps cats put paw to keyboard to express the depth of their feline feelings in odes to breakfasts (on time, please!), ripped-up rugs (it's a sign of affection!), the importance of keeping watch in the bathroom, and the perfect cardboard box that the expensive and totally ignored new cat bed arrived in. Illustrated by adorable and goofy cat photos, this book is the purrfect combination of snarky and sweet that every cat person knows is cat for true love.

Cat Photos Galore: Illustrated by a collection of feline models striking poses that are charming, affectionate, standoffish, and just plain silly, this whimsical poetry book reveals kitties at their most lovable.

Ideal Gift for Cat Lovers: The humour in the poems is based on universal experiences shared by all cats and their owners. For that "crazy cat lady" or "cat mom/dad" in your life, this poetry book makes for the perfect cat-themed gift for anyone obsessed with their pet.

Mini Coffee Table Book: Enchant visitors with this hand-held volume of the best cat poetry sure to delight book lovers and humour enthusiasts alike.

Hardcover, 112 pages
Publisher: Chronicle Books, 3rd October 2023

Price: $28.40 from www.booktopia.com.au

THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE FURRY
Life with the World's Most Melancholy Cat and Other Whiskery Friends
by Tom Cox (Author)

Meet The Bear - a cat who carries the weight of the world on his furry shoulders, and whose wise, owl-like eyes seem to ask, 'Can you tell me why I am a cat, please?'

Like many intellectuals, The Bear would prefer a life of quiet solitude with plenty of time to gaze forlornly into space and contemplate society's ills. Unfortunately he is destined to spend his days surrounded by felines of a significantly lower IQ...

Ralph: handsome, self-satisfied tabby, terrified of the clothes horse.

Shipley: mouthy hooligan and champion mouser, rendered insensible by being turned upside-down.

Roscoe: fiercely independent kitten, tormented by her doppelganger in the mirror.

And then there's Tom, writing with his usual wit and charm about the unexpected adventures that go hand in hand with a life at the beck and call of four cats.. or three cats and a sensitive poet who just happens to be a foot high and covered in fur.

Paperback, 288 pages
Publisher: ‎Sphere (1st edition), 8 October 2013

RRP: $31.26 at www.amazon.com.au

THE LITTLE INSTRUCTION BOOK FOR CAT PARENTS
A Hilarious Survival Guide for Cat Owners
by Kate Freeman

This hilarious instruction book is here to help you accept that being a cat parent is not a choice, but a lifestyle.

Your cat rules your home and your heart. You bend over backwards to cater to their quirks. In fact, you would do anything for your pampered puss. So why is it that they sometimes choose to ignore you, push your most prized possessions off shelves, or use your furniture as a scratching post?

Luckily, this no-nonsense survival guide is on hand to help you navigate feline parenthood. Whether you need to learn not to take the cold shoulder personally, how to accept those little "gifts" with due gratitude, or simply to understand that there is never an acceptable excuse for an empty food bowl, these pearls of wisdom are sure to make you an elite cat parent in no time.

Filled with original illustrations and tongue-in-cheek advice, this sneak peek into the mind of the mundane moggy will make the perfect gift for any cat lover.

Hardcover, 96 pages
Publisher: Octopus, 17th September 2024

Price: $19.99 from www.amazon.com.au

BOOK CLUB – KIDS’ CORNER

JUSTIN CASE, CAT DETECTIVE 
by Aileen Jay, illustrated by Angela Hodgson-Teall

This is a very attractive collection of witty short stories for young children (and their parents). 

It also supports their learning in various reception class and year one topics including travel, materials and their properties, social skills, food, and people who help us. 

Arithmetic and pre-mathematical concepts are referenced in the stories. This makes it fun to read at home and useful for schools.

Paperback, 86 pages
Publisher: Troubador Publishing, 18th September 2024
For Ages: 5 - 7 years old

Price: $28.64 from www.amazon.com.au

GRANDMA MURPHY’S PUSSYCAT
by Maura Finn (Author), Lucinda Gifford (Illustrator)

At midnight's strike as all lay sleeping,
comes a figure, crawling, creeping...

It's Grandma Murphy's pussycat! 

Where is this mysterious black cat going in the deep, dark night? And what adventures might he have along the way?

An enchanting picture book that will bewitch young readers and grown-ups alike.

Hardcover, 32 pages
Publisher: Affirm Press, 24 September 2024
For Ages: ‎ 4 - 8 years old

Price: $28.56 from amazon.com.au

HALLOWEEN CAT MAZES
29 Colourful Mazes
by Nora Watkins, Clever Publishing, Inna Anikeeva (Illustrator)

Children will love to explore more than 29 challenging mazes that feature full-colour artwork and an assortment of adorable cats in a Halloween theme.

This is the perfect book for keeping young readers entertained these school holidays, and an ideal gift for young readers who love activity books and cats! 

Paperback, 32 pages
Publisher: Quarto US, 3rd September 2024
For Ages: 5 - 7 years old

Price: $9.76 from www.amazon.com.au

LITTLE WITCH CAT
Finger Puppet Book
by Emily Dove (Illustrator)

A sweet, rhyming Halloween-themed board book with a finger puppet built right in Bursting with colour and charm, this finger puppet book invites babies and inquisitive toddlers to touch, feel, and explore their growing world.

Little ones will love celebrating Halloween with this adorable witchy feline and her cute ghoul and goblin companions. Interactive pages let readers help Little Witch Cat stir her cauldron under the full moon as she and her friends celebrate their favourite day of the year. 

With its irresistible plush, adorable art, and sweet, accessible text, this latest addition to the bestselling Finger Puppet series will delight parents and toddlers alike.

Novelty Book, 12 pages
Publisher: Chronicle Books, 27th August2024
For Ages: 0 - 3 years old

Price: $19.40 from www.booktopia.com.au

MR HOWARD THE RESCUED CAT
by Erin Hayburn (Author)

An abandoned young cat must fend for himself and avoid the nasty bully cats patrolling the streets, until he is rescued by new people, given the name 'Mr Howard,' and brought into a home with good food, soft beds, and a very old dog!

But to pass the test in the new home, Mr Howard must follow The Rules. After an unexpected escape, he is faced with a choice: Will he choose No Rules and a life on the streets? Or The Rules and a new family?

What will Mr Howard choose?

Paperback, ‎32 pages
Publisher:‎ Tellwell Talent, 25 June 2022
For Ages: ‎ Baby - 12 years

Price: $20.89 from www.amazon.com.au

HAMISH THE ADVENTURE CAT
by Melinda Van Slobbe

Some cats like lazing around in the sun, but not Hamish! He is as curious as he is cute, and he was born to explore.
This is the real-life story of how Hamish the rescue kitty became Hamish the Adventure Cat.

This delightful rhyming story picture book is filled with fun and colourful illustrations inspired by real life photographs of a cute tuxedo cat adventuring in the wild places of Australia. 

Paperback, 32 pages
Publisher: Melinda Van Slobbe, 13th September 2024
For Ages: 4 - 9 years old

Price: $19.82 from www.amazon.com.au

THE TRUCK CAT
by Deborah Frenkel, Danny Snell

The Truck Cat is a story about cats and humans, immigration and identity, and homes lost and found.

Some cats are house cats. Some are apartment cats.
But Tinka is a truck cat. Tinka lives everywhere.

Along with his human, Yacoub, Tinka travels roads wide and narrow, near and distant. But no matter how much they travel, home feels very far away – for both of them.

Yacoub drives his truck to make a living, learning the landscape of a new country along the way, and longing for connection. When Tinka and Yacoub are unexpectedly separated, they are determined to find their way back to each other – and, in doing so, might find more than they expected…

With illustrations by multi-award-winning artist Danny Snell and words by acclaimed new writer Deborah Frenkel, The Truck Cat is the perfect book to inspire kindness and compassion in young children everywhere.

Hardcover, 32 pages
Publisher: Bright Light; First Edition, 1st October 2024
For Ages: 3 – 7 years old

Price: $21.17 from www.amazon.com.au

CAT CHAT
How Cats Tell Us How They Feel
by Jess French, Penelope Dullaghan (Illustrator)

'Say hello' cat or 'let me go' cat? Cat Chat is the perfect introduction to living with cats and kittens for young children.

Learn how to read a cat's body language and what your pet might be trying to tell you through their tail waves, ear twitches, meows, and more.

The book also provides tips for children on how to interact safely with their newest member of the family, to help them quickly become the best of friends.

The perfect gift for the new young pet owner and their parents.

Hardcover, 24 pages
Publisher: Nosy Crow, 3rd September 2024
For Ages: 2 - 5 years old

Price: $14.99 from www.amazon.com.au