AN anxiety-battling companion to a young boy with autism is among the felines nominated for this year’s National Cat Awards.

The annual awards, organised by the UK’s largest cat charity, Cats Protection, recognises the bond between owners and their whiskered companions.

The competition’s four categories – Cat Colleagues, Furr-ever Friends, Most Caring Cat, and Outstanding Rescue Cat – will be judged by a raft of famous faces, including businesswoman Deborah Meaden, England footballer Ellen White and comedian Bob Mortimer.

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Reading Chronicle: Elliot Abery, age 11 from Newbury, with his pet cat Chicken, who it's been announced, is a finalist in the 'Furr-Ever Friends' category of this year's Cats Protection National Cat AwardsElliot Abery, age 11 from Newbury, with his pet cat Chicken, who it's been announced, is a finalist in the 'Furr-Ever Friends' category of this year's Cats Protection National Cat Awards

The winning animals are set to be announced in August, and will receive a trophy, a £200 pet store voucher and a year’s subscription to Cats Protection’s The Cat magazine.

Among the nominees in the Furr-Ever Friends category is Chicken, companion to 11-year-old Elliot Abery, who has autism and suffers with anxiety.

The pair live in the town of Thatcham, Berkshire.

Elliot’s mother, Jenny, 45, said: “Elliot and Chicken share a special bond which is unlike anything I’ve ever seen.

“When he’s had a tough day or is struggling with anxiety, talking about Chicken has a calming effect on him.

“Chicken and Elliot are just brilliant together and I really hope their story will help highlight how incredible cats can be for people with autism.”

Cats Protection’s National Cat Awards organiser Kate Bunting said: “Cats make incredible pets for all sorts of homes, and this year’s finalists really go to show how there is a cat for everyone.”