We’re not sure how many of will get to attend the Midland Pet show in Warwickshire, UK but just in case you don’t happen to be in the area, one of the star attractions was a cat named Smokey. Smokey has become an international celebrity since she gained a place in the Guinness Book of Records in 2012, with a purr measuring a remarkable 67.7 decibels.
Just to give you some perspective on that sound level, it’s louder than most vacuum cleaners! And we’re talking about a purr here. Not a scream. Can you imagine that?
Smokey’s owner Ruth Adams, of Pitsford, Northamptonshire, said: “It’s not very often you get to stroke an international celebrity and have your photograph taken with them. Smokey thrives on attention. I have written a book about her called Smokey The Very Loud Purring Cat. It’s been a big hit with children. We’ve had satellite recording equipment sent over to our house from America, especially to record her purr. She made it into the The Guinness Book of Records after testers recorded her from one mile away while a vet was present along with a qualified sound engineer and witness.”
Smokey was adopted eight years ago. At first the family thought that the purring was normal. But after taking Smokey to the vet they found the purring was quite loud. However, there’s no explanation for why it’s so loud. For those interested in attending the show it takes place on July 20-21. You can get tickets here.