Smitten, the cat takes a siesta with the kelpies, but is also at home among the bulls (video)

If you're a regular reader, you already know that we have a special place in our hearts for farm and barn cats. From experience, we also know that you, our readers, appreciate and love these cool creatures just as much.

Most barn cats are content to spend their time catching mice and napping, but not Smitten! The 17-year-old calico lady—yes, you read that right, she’s 17!—is much more at home with horses, cattle, herding kelpies, and her herdsmen. Meet this cool farm cat!

They come to check on the cattle and their water:

A farm cat needs to keep control of their environment

According to Smitten’s owner, Julie Mayne, the kitten wants to be part of everything on the cattle ranch northwest of Brisbane, Australia. ‘It’s a joy to go up to the shed and see her rushing out; she’s so happy to see me. She jumps up into the vehicle on his own because she wants to be there when we deliver water or put out the salt blocks,‘ explains the owner. Smitten dominates the dashboard of the SUV, while Julie and her five kelpies compete for space on the seat when they go to herd. Smitten’s courage doesn’t falter even when they arrive at the Santa Gertrudis cattle, whose individuals can weigh more than 500 kilograms. She marches through the herd, and the cattle stare at this fearless creature. They’re so fascinated by the sight that they often follow her and want to sniff her out. Her owner tells us that she’s usually very worried she might scare the cattle and they might stomp on her, but Smitten seems to be in control of the situation.

Buddy of dogs

Julie met Smitten in a hardware store in 2007, when she was still a kitten. She immediately fell in love with her and paid the $10 they asked for the kitten. Smitten quickly settled into the family, but when another rescued cat was brought home, she developed a strange new identity. ‘Smitten, being a princess, took offence and left,’ said Julie. But she didn’t go far. Soon, she was seen walking out of one of the dog kennels. She yawned and stretched, as if she had always lived there. She quickly realized that, for some reason, dogs were particularly fond of her. So, she was groomed and allowed to sleep with them, which can be very pleasant in winter. The dogs treat her exactly as if she were one of them.

Smitten has gained a huge following on social media, which surprised Julie. For her, it was natural to have a cat on the farm who was so close to both her and the animals. However, she did reveal that Smitten holds a special place in her heart. What she loves most is that she always has company, no matter what she’s doing on the farm. Whether it’s building a fence or herding, it’s safe to say that the industrious kitty will go with her.