A cat which had been `adopted’ by Hever Castle’s gardeners has been reunited with its owners.
Nicknamed Puffball the white cat appeared one day around the greenhouses near the Pavilion Café, very nervous and wary of people.
Gardener Thomas fed her and gave her a bed in the greenhouse while the team contacted cat rehoming charities for assistance.
The cat, which they originally thought was a she, became less nervous and in time an extra member of the gardening team, even sitting on Thomas’ back whilst he was weeding.
After contacting various cat charities for help Croydon Animal Samaritans managed to trace the original owners within two hours.
The cat had been temporarily living near Hever when it decided to explore further afield but thanks to the charity was reunited with its original owners in Greater London.
‘Puffball’ is now back safely in her original home and it was also discovered she was a male cat called Leonard.
Head Gardener Neil Miller said: “The gardeners were quite emotional handing over Puffball, however we were comforted, that, following the quick assistance of this amazing charity it resulted in a very happy ending.”
Karen Gleaves, Trustee/Volunteer at Croydon Animal Samaritans says: “This is another example of the importance of microchipping. Because Leonard was microchipped and his owners’ details were correct, we were able to reunite him very quickly with his happy owners, after being missing for around 6 months.
“Microchipping will ensure that you are reunited with your beloved pet very quickly, if they are one of the lucky ones that get picked up by a rescue. Please keep your details up to date though.’
In England from 10 June 2024 it will become law to have your cat microchipped from 20 weeks of age. Failure to do so could result in a fine for owners of up to £500.
Croydon Animal Samaritans relies entirely on volunteers (many who work full time) and donations from the public to operate. If you would like to contribute to help save animals in need you can donate via their Amazon wish list
Book your visit to Hever Castle & Gardens.
Within the grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, there are two opportunities for you to stay the night with us.
Hever Castle has played host to many important events and celebrations for over 600 years. In 1903 when William Waldorf Astor set about restoring Hever Castle to its former glory, he added the Astor Wing, to accommodate his family and guests, before creating a lake and the spectacular Italian Garden to house his impressive collection of ancient Greek and Roman statuary.
There are multiple places to eat & drink across the Hever Castle Estate. Select between the Castle & Gardens and Golf Club below to discover more.
Set in the mature grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, Hever Castle Golf Club is a 27 hole Kent golf course that will encourage and inspire all golf enthusiasts.
Set in the mature grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, the Wellbeing Centre consists of five smart treatment rooms.
