Dora’s Story in Bournemouth: From Scaredy Cat to Cuddle Monster

When Dora and Marla’s owners asked Alex Booth at The Cat Butler Bournemouth to care for them while they travelled to Australia, she was delighted to help.

At the initial meeting, their personalities couldn’t have been more different. Marla, the tabby, was relaxed and happy to accept a chin scratch. Dora, the black cat, was wary of new people. Her owners explained that Alex might not see her at all. Thankfully, microchipped feeders and a cat flap meant they could monitor that she was eating and coming and going safely.

For the first few visits, Dora was nowhere to be found. She was eating well and using the flap, but she remained hidden.

Then Alex began to hear movement at the top of the house. The owners were mid loft conversion, with work paused while they were away. One day, by chance, Alex caught sight of Dora slipping into the loft space. Mystery solved.

Rather than force the situation, Alex kept things calm. She left treats near the loft entrance and chatted quietly as she went about her routine. No pressure. Just steady, reassuring presence.

Then came the breakthrough.

While preparing food one day, Alex turned around to find Dora watching her. Alex wanted to do a little happy dance, but instead she simply carried on as normal, chatting quietly and giving Dora space. As Dora began to eat, Alex sat down nearby. Within moments, a small black head nudged her hand, asking for chin scratches.

A message was promptly sent to some very happy owners in Australia.

From that day on, Dora greeted Alex at the door, wound around her legs and followed her from room to room demanding cuddles. The once nervous cat had become a little shadow.

Marla, of course, took it all in her stride and made sure she received equal attention and treats.

Patience, quiet consistency and letting a cat move at her own pace made all the difference. Dora’s owners returned home knowing both girls had been cared for, not just fed.

At The Cat Butler, trust is earned gently and on a cat’s terms.

Sandra James

Owner & Founder

The Cat Butler was set up by Sandra James in recognition of the fact that a stay in a cattery can be unsettling for many cats and also their owners.