Tortoiseshell Misty won the Most Caring Cat category in the National Cat Awards 2022. She was chosen by husband-and-wife judges, ex-England goalkeeper David Seaman MBE and former Dancing on Ice star Frankie Seaman.

The 13-year-old moggy scooped the award in recognition of how she helped Coral Jones cope after she was diagnosed at the age of 14 with costochondritis, a painful condition affecting the cartilage of the rib cage.

The illness left Coral bedridden, causing muscle wastage, which led to her being unable to walk for two years.

Having missed large chunks of school, Coral, now 22, eventually built up strength to walk again but still suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder following the ordeal.

Coral was at the awards ceremony at London’s Savoy Hotel on 4 August to accept Misty’s trophy and prize package, which included a £200 pet store voucher.

“Misty has always been there for me through everything and I’m so pleased that she’s had the recognition she deserves,” said Coral. ”When I was a teenager and unable to walk, I felt invisible to everyone except Misty. She never gave up on me; she was cheering me on at every step I took with those crutches.

“I wouldn’t have coped without her, and I hope people will see her story and realise how caring, patient and supportive cats are, particularly when it comes to physical and mental health.

“I’m bursting with pride for Misty and so grateful to have her in my life. She’s my guardian angel.”

Frankie Seaman said: “It was clear to David and I that all three of the shortlisted cats in the Most Caring Cat category shared a very affectionate bond and deep trust with their people, which made it so hard to choose a winner because we really loved them all. But we thought Misty and her owner Coral were incredibly special to each other and we know that Coral is in safe hands – or paws – with Misty.”

Having won her category, Misty narrowly missed out on being named National Cat of the Year, a title that instead went to joint winners Jasper and Willow, a pair of rescue cats who provide comfort to patients, families and staff at St Peter & St James Hospice Haywards Heath, Sussex.

The National Cat Awards, organised by the UK’s largest cat charity Cats Protection, is an annual celebration of the real-life stories of heroism, loyalty and companionship in the feline world.

Cats Protection’s National Cat Awards organiser Cat Jarvis said: “Misty and Coral’s story is truly heart-warming and goes to show how important cats can be in our lives during difficult times. From staying by Coral’s side when she was unable to walk to helping her through trauma attacks, Misty has been a constant support and shows how devoted, loyal and caring cats can be.”

Cats Protection, the UK’s leading feline welfare charity, has helped an average of 166,000 cats and kittens a year over the last five years through its national network which includes around 210 volunteer-run branches and 34 centres.