Janet Rogers, a lifelong cat lover from Huntly, has dedicated more than 40 years to rescuing and rehoming stray cats across Huntly, Keith, and Turriff. Her tireless efforts have now earned her the title of MBE for her invaluable services to cats and wildcats in the north-east of Scotland.
Janet works with Huntly, Keith, and Turriff Cats Protection, where she oversees a cattery with nine pens that are “continually full.” Over the last 43 years, she has cared for countless stray and unwanted cats, providing them with a second chance at life and securing loving forever homes.
The recognition came as a surprise to Janet, who received a letter informing her of the honor. “I couldn’t understand why I needed it more than anybody else,” she said modestly, still uncertain who nominated her for the prestigious award.
Beyond rehoming cats, Janet plays a vital role in controlling the feral cat population to protect Scotland’s wildcat breeding program. Her team traps feral cats, conducts blood tests, and neuters them before releasing them back into the wild. This process ensures that feral cats do not interfere with the efforts to preserve the endangered wildcat population.
“It’s a very, very rewarding job,” Janet shared. “You’ve got to really love it to do what we do.”
One of the highlights of her career involved a four-week-old wildcat kitten that was brought into the cattery. Initially mistaken for an ordinary stray, the kitten’s unique traits caught the attention of a vet. Blood and hair tests confirmed it was a wildcat, and the kitten was transferred to the breeding program at the Highland Wildlife Park in Kingussie.
“I never, ever thought I would get so close,” Janet said, recalling the encounter. “He was magnificent but an absolute terror—even at four weeks, he would have a go at you. But it was all for the right reasons.”
Despite her recent honor, Janet remains focused on her work. She has no plans for a grand celebration, stating that her New Year’s plans depend entirely on whether a cat needs her attention. Her dedication extends to being on call for Cats Protection at all times, ensuring no feline in need is overlooked.
She even requested not to attend the ceremony at Buckingham Palace next year, prioritizing the care of her own animals over the trip.
“I just enjoy what I’m doing, and I feel honored that I’ve been able to do it for as long as I have,” Janet concluded.
Related Topics