The Soul of the Shutter: Win "Neko: Cats of Japan" by Masayuki Oki

Australians have long fostered a dual romance: a deep-seated devotion to our 5.3 million pet cats and a wandering spirit that draws nearly a million of us to the streets of Japan each year. This March, those two worlds collide in the international debut of acclaimed photographer Masayuki Oki.

From Marketing to Masterpieces

Masayuki’s journey didn’t begin behind a professional lens. In 2013, a chance New Year’s Eve encounter with a serene, noble-featured feline named Busanyan-senpai sparked a transformation. Falling in love at first sight, Masayuki captured her image and shared it with the world.

The response was instant and global. By 2015, Masayuki walked away from his corporate marketing career to dedicate his life to the "inner worlds" of cats. Today, with 20 published books and over 700,000 Instagram followers, he is the preeminent chronicler of Japan’s feline spirit.

"It’s about capturing the feelings we imagine from their expressions and behaviours — the stories we see in their eyes." — Masayuki Oki

The International Debut: NEKO

Neko: Cats of Japan ($29.99), published by Smith Street Books is more than a collection of photographs; it is an exploration of feline personality. From the playful swish of a tail in a Tokyo alley to the quiet dignity of a cat amidst nature, Oki captures the moments every cat lover recognises and adores.

About the Author: Masayuki Oki is a professional photographer who spends his days documenting the lives of cats in Japanese cities and nature. A champion for animal care, his work shows these "playful and independent kitties" at their absolute feline best.

Can't wait for the giveaway? You can find Neko: Cats of Japan at your local bookstore or order your copy online here from Amazon AU or Booktopia.

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🐾 Our Book Giveaway

To celebrate this brand new release, we are giving away three copies of this stunning hardcover collection.

How to Enter

1. Like our post (06/03/26) & our Facebook page and/or @australiancatlovers on Instagram.

2. For your chance to win, tell us: "What story do you see in your cat’s eyes that Masayuki Oki should capture?" via @AustralianCatLover on Facebook or @australiancatlovers on Instagram.

3. Get Creative: Sharing a photo or video of your cat is highly encouraged! Simply tag us in your entry (ensure your account is set to public so we can see your beautiful felines).

Terms and Conditions

1. This Competition opens on Friday 6th March 2026 (6pm, A.E.S.T.) and closes on Monday 16th March 2026 (Midnight, A.E.S.T.). Open to Australian residents only.

2. There are 3 copies of Neko: Cats of Japan ($29.99 RRP) available to be won. Please allow 2 weeks to receive your prize directly from the Publisher.

3. To enter, Like our post (06/03/26) + share your cat's story in the comments or via a tagged photo on the Australian Cat Lover Facebook page or @australiancatlovers on Instagram.

4. This Promotion is a game of skill and chance plays no part in determining the winner. Entries will be judged by the Australian Cat Lover team based on the most creative, heart-warming, or insightful statements.

5. Tag as many friends as you'd like for extra chances!

6. Prizes not claimed within 48 hours of the winner announcement will be redrawn.

*Entry into the competition is deemed acceptance of all terms and conditions.

From backyard litters to foster care, here is how you can help NSW’s most vulnerable kittens survive and thrive this summer

Ever wondered what all the fuss is about when kitten season rolls around? With the days getting warmer and longer, more cats are giving birth, with more tiny kittens appearing in backyards, parks, and hidden neighbourhood nooks. These vulnerable little newborns need careful feeding, safe spaces, and parental supervision to survive.

Because female cats can reach reproductive age at just four months old, a single season can see a massive influx of unplanned litters.

But before you scoop up that stray kitten on the street or a hidden litter in your garden, there is a vital "wait and see" protocol every Aussie cat lover needs to know helping our feline friends this kitten season.

The 3-Hour Rule: Why ‘Rescuing’ Isn’t Always Best

It is a common instinct: you see a tiny kitten alone and you want to help. However, Dr. Gemma Ma, RSPCA NSW Senior Manager of the Keeping Cats Safe at Home program, warns that rushing in can sometimes do more harm than good.

“Newborn kittens rely entirely on their mothers or human carers for survival,” says Dr. Ma. “Understanding their needs, or who to call for help, is essential to keeping them safe.”

The Flour Trick: If you find healthy-looking kittens, don’t move them. Instead, sprinkle a circle of flour around the nest. If you see footprints leading to or from the kittens later, it’s a clear sign the mother is returning to feed them while you aren't looking. Unless the kittens are sick, injured, or the mother hasn’t returned after three hours, their best chance of survival is staying right where they are.

The Road to Independence

Why is staying with Mum so important? 

The developmental timeline for a cat is incredibly steep:

• 0–4 Weeks: Wholly dependent on Mum for warmth, feeding, and even help going to the toilet.

• 4–8 Weeks: The "curiosity phase" where they begin exploring solid food but still need guidance and socialisation.

• 8 Weeks+: Only now are they ready to be desexed, rehomed, or live independently.

Tammy's Journey: A Fighting Chance

For RSPCA NSW foster carer Tammy, providing care for vulnerable kittens is about giving those with no one else a fighting chance. Tammy’s fostering journey began five years ago, when she found four tiny kittens being chased by a bird. 

With guidance from local vet nurses and rescue groups, she learnt how to bottle-feed and care for them, skills that would later see her become a dedicated neonatal carer, supporting kittens from as young as one week old.

After joining RSPCA NSW, Tammy was soon entrusted with her first neonatal foster, a role she describes as both demanding and deeply rewarding.

“As a carer, what drew me to neonates was knowing these babies had no one else to help them,” Tammy says. “The most rewarding part is knowing that, once they grow into happy, confident little cats, my babies will one day be a loving family’s happy pets.”

Tammy says the support from both the RSPCA and the wider foster carer community makes all the difference. “For anyone thinking about becoming a carer, my advice would be to just do it,” she concluded. “Knowing you’ve saved and taught kittens to be the happiest little pets is the most rewarding feeling. I truly love the experience and wouldn’t give it up for the world.”

How You Can Help This Season

The reality is that pounds and shelters are often overwhelmed this time of year. You don't have to be a professional to make a difference:

1. Assess the Situation: Use the flour test. If they are in danger, take them to a local vet immediately.

2. The Desexing Domino Effect: If the mother has a home, check if the owners need financial help to get her desexed. Preventing the next litter is the best way to help.

3. Become a Foster Hero: Like Tammy, you can provide a "fighting chance" for those who have no one else.

4. Keep Cats Safe at Home: Keeping your own cats contained and enriched prevents unplanned litters and protects local wildlife.

A Community Effort

Can one person really make a difference during kitten season? The answer might surprise you.

“Kitten season is a time when community awareness, patience, and action can literally save lives,” says Dr Ma. 

“Each of us can help ensure our kittens are healthy, well looked after, and provided with the best possible start in life, whether we’re caring for neonates ourselves or simply learning what steps you might take when you find an unattended litter.”

Desexing your cat or keeping them safe, enriched, and contained within our homes can also have a monumental impact on managing cat populations this year. The more cats and unclaimed kittens we can keep off the streets and out of the shelter, the more our feline friends and their young ones can enjoy the joys and safety of a home.

Want to help? Reach out to the RSPCA today to learn more about becoming a foster carer or for advice on managing stray litters in your area.

Related Stories

Beyond Cute Looks: A Vet Nurse’s Guide to Choosing Your Kitten

Kitten-Proofing 101: How to Set Up Your Home for a Bundle of Mischief

The Key to Your Cat's Love Language is Here!

Cat giving you the cold shoulder? Survey reveals the secret to discovering their love language is with a great wet treat.

In exciting news for cats around Australia, Delectables, America’s #1 wet cat treat has just launched down under. Specifically formulated for cats' taste preferences, Delectables is now available in Woolworths with two key products, Squeeze Ups and Lickable Cat Treats.

The Bond: Survey Reveals Increased Affection

To celebrate the launch, Delectables conducted a survey to uncover insights into habits, health and behaviours of the nation’s most independent pets, and the owners who love them. And while cats can have a reputation for being aloof, 80% of Australian cats showed increased affection towards their owners during treat time.

Expert Opinion: Dr. Kate Adams on Feline Love Languages

A proud mum of three cats herself, Delectables ambassador and Bondi Vet Dr. Kate Adams confirms that “absolutely cats have love languages - with food being high on that list!”

Delectables Squeeze Ups and Lickable Cat Treats are great motivators for rekindling your connection with your cat, or bridge the initial gap with a new family member, adding that one of her own cats, Puddy, “only speaks in snacks,” says Dr Kate.

Dr Kate explains that while her own “cats go wild for Delectables”, the brand’s range of treats offer a wide variety of benefits. In addition to fostering a closer bond with your cat, Delectables are healthier and are extremely effective for training, including coming when their name is called, establishing trust and giving them medication.

Hydration and Health: The Dangers of Dry Food

When it comes to cats' regular diets, many owners think dry biscuits are a convenient choice, but Dr Kate warns they may be contributing to dehydration and Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) - one of the most common health problems amongst cats.

“We call the cats that love dry food ‘Cookie Monsters'," Dr Kate says. “They’re often the ones desperate for water, which can lead to urinary problems and even diabetes”.

Dr. Kate’s Hot Tip: “If you see your cat drinking water from the kitchen tap or from the shower, it’s a sign they need more moisture in their diet. Adding a Delectables cat treat can help by contributing up to 14% of their recommended daily water needs.”

A Word from the Brand

“Delectables have had strong international success, and it’s about time Aussie cats got a taste,” says Delectables Senior Brand Manager, Louise Berecic. “They’re healthy, guilt free treats cat lovers have been waiting for - high in hydration, low in calories and guaranteed to get even the fussiest felines licking their lips.”

The new Delectables Squeeze Ups and Lickable Cat Treats are available now in the pet supply section exclusive to Woolworths.

Product Details

• Delectables Lickable Cat Treats - Bisque (RRP: $2.00)

Delectables Lickable Cat Treats in Bisque texture are a smooth cat treat that can be used as a meal topper or stand alone treat.

They come in two lip licking flavours, Tuna and Tuna & Chicken, with an additional Tuna & Chicken flavour specially formulated for senior cats.

Key Stats: 8% protein (minimum) | 16 calories | Contributes to 14% daily water intake.

• Delectables Lickable Cat Treats - Stew (RRP: $2.00)

Delectables Lickable Cat Treats in Stew texture provide a delicious wet texture which allows your cat to enjoy fish, meat and juices together, rather than only being able to lick the sauce while having to leave the meat behind.

They come in two tasty flavours, Tuna & Whitefish and Tuna & Chicken, with an additional Tuna & Chicken flavour specially formulated for senior cats.

Key Stats: 5% protein (minimum) | 14 calories | Contributes to 14% daily water intake.

• Delectables Squeeze Ups (RRP: $4.50)

Delectables Squeeze Up Handheld Lickable Treats are a delicious, interactive, squeezable treat that come in a set of four.

Specially formulated to leave no mess, they come in three flavours; Chicken, Tuna & Salmon and Tuna & Catnip.

Key Stats: 8% protein (minimum) | 7.7 calories | Contributes to 5% daily water intake.

About Delectables

With a firm position as the U.S’s #1 cat treat, Delectables has landed in Australia exclusively via Woolworths with their Lickable® Cat Treats and Squeeze Up® range, bringing 9 delicious flavours to Australian cat lovers. Heroing healthy, delicious treats, Delectables put cat and owner connection at the forefront of what they do. For more details, visit: https://www.delectablescattreats.com/en-au/ 

• Instagram | @delectablescattreats_au 
• Facebook | Delectables Cat Treats Australia

^ Source: 1 Antenna & Delectables, October 2025: Understanding Cat Ownership and Human–Feline Connections in Australia (n=1,078)