Pott Row child's autism issues aided by new ‘best friend’

Having been diagnosed with autism, a five-year-old has been able to develop her interaction and communication skills through a new furry friend.

Marnie Quince, from Pott Row, found it difficult to make friends as she struggled socially due to autism.

But her mother, Nissa, said the decision to adopt a cat in April 2019 has already had a big impact on Marnie’s life.

Brought home from the Cats Protection’s Downham Adoption Centre, the one-year-old cat is called Domino.

Mrs Quince said: “Since coming home with us Domino has slotted straight into our family. She’s cheeky and loves a game, but the biggest thing for me is how much having Domino has helped my little girl.

“Marnie and Domino are best friends and always together, which in turn has helped Marnie with communication.”

She also said the new cat has helped her daughter when it comes to bedtime.

Due to Marnie’s autism, she has struggled to get to sleep, which subsequently affected her morning routine when getting ready for school.

“Marnie can often be found talking to Domino, telling her she loves her, reading her stories and asking her to play outside or come upstairs with her,” Mrs Quince said.

“It’s amazing to see them together. Being only a year-old, Domino is very playful but seems to understand Marnie and has never once scratched or bitten her when they are playing together.”

Cats Protection claim 93.5 per cent of owners think having a cat has a positive effect on their mental wellbeing.

This was the result of a survey of 2,000 cat owners conducted by 3Gem Research & Insights.

All cats which leave Downham’s adoption centre are examined by a vet, vaccinated, neutered and microchipped.

The centre charge £64 for an adoption.