For people who never stop wondering about cats
I’m Sarah Medway - a designer, photographer, illustrator and lifelong cat observer. Crafty Cat is where I share the stories, discoveries and useful things I have gathered from many years of living with, learning from and being thoroughly outmanoeuvred by cats.
Looking closely changes everything
Cats have been at the centre of my life since two tiny farm kittens, Calvin and Hobbes, arrived in a cardboard box in 1993. Since then, my husband Martin and I have shared our home with cats of wonderfully different characters, including, at one point, seven Maine Coons.
Living with them has taught me that there is no single way to 'speak cat'. Every cat brings a different history, personality and view of the world. Understanding begins with paying attention to the individual in front of us.
Today, Pixel and Shae keep life interesting and ensure that any theory I form is properly tested.
Stories, observations and genuinely useful things
Crafty Cat brings together close observations of feline behaviour, personal stories, field notes and practical ideas for making the lives we share with cats richer and more interesting.
You will also find thoughtful reviews of products I believe are worth examining. I am interested in how something works for a cat, how well it fits into a real home and whether it earns the space, money and attention it asks of us.
Above all, this is a place for curiosity. Cats are excellent at reminding us that there is always more to notice.
Learning never really stops
My fascination with cats extends beyond those who share our home. After several years leading photography workshops at The Big Cat Sanctuary, I now volunteer with the keeper team and support its work in rescue, education and conservation.
Domestic cats are not miniature big cats, but time spent observing both reinforces the same lesson: look carefully, respect the animal and resist the temptation to assume.
Two kittens, an early website and a lasting idea
Crafty Cat first appeared online in 2000, inspired by Calvin and Hobbes and my growing fascination with feline behaviour. Its history includes an early web community, a behaviour forum and even a Crafty Cat wedding.
Observe first. Stay curious. Let the cat have a say.
I am not a veterinary surgeon, veterinary nurse or qualified animal behaviourist. I am an enthusiastic and experienced cat owner who believes that patient observation can help us live more thoughtfully with cats.
Crafty Cat is for general guidance and entertainment. It cannot diagnose or treat health or behavioural conditions. If you are worried about your cat’s health, behaviour or wellbeing, please contact your veterinary practice.