Miraculous Hungarian cat can become Norway’s Therapy Animal of the Year
A spirited Hungarian, Katrine Emma Hope found inspiration to better lives and help others through her personal trauma. Her faithful feline companion, always at her side through thick and thin, accompanied Kate in her newfound mission in Norway. Alongside her Somali cat, Marie, they form an unstoppable duo, bringing joy and happiness to the everyday lives of the elderly in a retirement home. Marie is actually so good at her job that she stands a high chance of winning the title of Therapy Animal of the Year.
A glimmer of hope
Born and raised in Hungary, Katrine Emma Hope now calls Norway home. Opening up to Az én macskám, she revealed that during her traumatic and challenging times in the past, her only ray of hope was her feline friend, Kylle. This prompted Kate to discover her true calling – dedicating her life to helping others in similar situations with the support of her four-pawed companion. Inspired by therapy dogs, she thought, “Why not give it a go with cats?”After delving into research, she discovered the healing capabilities of cats. While Kylle played an important role in her recovery, he wasn’t suitable as a therapy cat, leading Kate on a quest to find the right feline candidate.
Marie, the wonder-cat
Kate set her sights on a Somali cat, as they are known for being friendly and people-oriented. Kate’s year-long search led her to Marie. Needless to say, it was love at first sight. Purchasing Marie from a Norwegian breeder, Kate started training from day one, teaching the lovely furball to walk on a lead, travel and perform tricks since kittenhood. The training process, not too different from that of dogs, eventually turned Marie into a certified therapy cat, passing the ICofA’s exam, a comprehensive evaluation comprising an aptitude test, theory course and a final exam.
Marie’s job
Eventually, Marie was allowed to skip the final exam, having already volunteered with Kate in another care home for six months. Recordings showcasing Marie’s positive impact earned her the qualification. While the new retirement home Kate applied to was keen to employ therapy dogs, the residents and the staff were first puzzled by the concept of a therapy cat. Fortunately, they were open to the idea, and Marie quickly won everyone’s heart. The dynamic duo is passionate about working in the retirement home and bringing a ray of joy and happiness into the residents’ lives.
Therapy animal of the year
Norway’s long history and appreciation for therapy animals include a variety of species, from dogs and horses to cats and even goats. At the year’s end, the public votes for the therapy animal of the year, and Marie stands as a prominent nominee. The cat category’s prize, a complimentary annual vet check-up, mandatory for therapy cats, appeals to Kate, who also sees the title as a valuable addition to her CV.
Here’s to the wonder-cat, Marie, and Kate – proving that sometimes, the best therapists have fur and whiskers!
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