AT TWENTY-two-years-old, could Bumble be the oldest cat in Hampshire?

Tabby cat Bumble is just shy of her 23rd birthday which is coming up in December.

Bumble’s age may not seem that impressive to long-living humans, but the cat's advanced years are notable for a domestic feline which have an average life span of 12 to 15 years.

To reach this age – the rough equivalent to 108 in human years – Bumble’s owners Gill and Sadak Miah put her longevity down to her placid nature and determination to overcome the illnesses that have affected her as she ages.

Gill, from Swanmore, said: “She will be 23 in December and now most of her life is spent asleep, either soaking up the sunlight outdoors or snoozing on the lounge settee. "We bought a set of steps to allow her to walk up to the settee as she now struggles to jump up to it.

"She is also partial to a treat, so now and again we’ll give her a small helping of her favourite trifle and custard.”

Gill and Sadak, who have two sons, started to notice a change in Bumble’s health and behaviour when she was 14 years.

The most serious illness was an eye ulcer that led to a ruptured eyeball earlier this year, which early caused her to be put to sleep.

Thankfully she pulled through following meticulous surgery from caring vets.

Other medical ailments and disorders have included a minor stroke, arthritis, pancreatitis, kidney disease, a middle ear infection and high blood pressure, but regular trips to the vets have made sure she is healthy and fit.

The easy-going moggy, who has lived through five British prime ministers, has been cared for by Adelaide Vets in Bursledon, all her life.

Head veterinary nurse Jo Phelan believes she must lay claim to be one of the oldest moggies in the region.

She said: “Bumble’s owners have always been very proactive when it comes to her health.

"By allowing us to check her regularly and deal with health matters earlier this has no doubt played a part in her reaching such a fantastic age."