‘Diva’ cat who couldn’t stop ‘tearing his own fur off’ crowned Pet of the Year 2024

A cat who has suffered with a series of health issues has been awarded Pet of the Year 2024 due to his fundraising efforts.

When Rhia Watson rescued fluffy Morgan as a three-week-old kitten, she didn’t expect for him to become an online celebrity.

The moggy, now five, has battled with allergies his whole life, to the point where he tried to tear off his fur, reports What’s The Jam.

READ MORE: ‘I’m a top vet and this is what I’d never feed my dog – because it could put YOU at risk’

Heartbroken, the 43-year-old bought a small dog coat to help ease the symptoms – and it worked a treat, with over 50 currently in their wardrobe.

To share his colourful looks, Rhia uploaded photos to Facebook, where they quickly racked up a fanbase across the world.

Now, he’s been crowned Vets Now’s Pet of the Year 2024 after raising over £40,000 for charity with his own range of merchandise.

“I’d never have dreamed that what started as a bit of fun to beat the boredom in lockdown could have done so much good,” said Rhia, a dental nurse from Aylsham, Norfolk.

“It surprises me every day and I sometimes wonder if Morgan knows what people think of him.

“It’s really satisfying to know this is helping little charities, and I was shocked but so happy at him winning this lovely award.”

Rhia rescued Morgan along with his twin brother, Morris, in 2019.

She didn’t realise he had any problems until suffering an allergic reaction to the anaesthetic used during neutering; with vets fearing he wouldn’t survive.

He then had a reaction to flea medication, as well as a whole host of other allergies showing up, including hay fever.

Now, his condition is kept under control with the use of ongoing medication and banning certain items around the home.

Since sharing his journey online, the feline has sold over 250 calendars, as well as hoodies, mugs, tea towels and other items.

And it’s raised the impressive aforementioned amount for charity.

Rhia added: “Despite his health problems he’s a very happy boy and a bit of a diva.

“He’s very special to me, but it’s so strange to think that people all over the world idolise him.”

Vets Now has awarded Morgan not only the prestigious title, but also a personalised trophy, £500 Pets Pyjamas voucher and a bundle of vet-approved goodies.

Dave Leicester, head of telehealth at Vets Now, added: “We had some amazing stories, and it was very hard to choose between all the fantastic entries.

“The judges were especially impressed with how our worthy winner has overcome adversity and continues to help other animals through their amazing character and personality.

“The amount Morgan has raised for charity is incredible, especially considering all that he has had to overcome since he was a kitten.”

READ MORE: ‘I’m an animal Chiropractor: Working with baby kittens to giraffes’