We had been told we may not see either of the two cats during our current house sitting assignment. The owner described them as ‘farm cats’ – meaning they live outside, mostly in the hay stack. Our only job was to ensure we left some cat biscuits in a bowl each day.

After a few days, Mick spotted a pretty black cat sitting on a bale of hay, and when he went to pet her, she was happy with the attention.

A few days later, Mick was able to pick her up and bring her inside.

We had been told it was fine for the cats to come inside while we were there, but they had to go out of an evening.

We have no idea if this one has a name or not, but she obviously knew here way around. She does not like sitting on your lap but will take as much petting as you are willing to give.

This cat is obviously the boss – the dog tolerates her but has not intention of ‘rubbing her up the wrong way’.

When I sent a message to the owner about the cat turning up, her only advice was to watch out for her claws.

Mick soon found out what she meant.