Politicians and their pets: Stewart McDonald and his cat, Fleur

The SNP MP introduces us to his long-haired domestic cat, Fleur

Pet’s name?

Fleur

Breed?

Long-haired domestic.

Age?

Seven.

How long have you had her?

Two years

Where did you get her?

Saved from her previous owner, whose other cat used to bully her non-stop.

What can she do?

Laser pen enthusiast.

What do you love about her?

She can be very affectionate, but only ever on her terms.

What special talents does she have?

Overly dramatic at the slightest sound she hears.

What’s her best trick?

Running to the window on someone’s approach to the door like a guard dog –  which is ironic, because she gets frightened when someone sneezes.

What are their most annoying habits?

Early morning gurning.

What’s the worst thing she’s done?

Two words: Litter box.

Do you think of yourself as a pet parent or pet owner?

Pet parent.

What’s the most exorbitant thing you’ve ever purchased for Fleur?

Not me, but my partner, Gordon, spent way too much on a wicker basket that she barely goes near. 

What’s your first pet or animal-related memory?

My childhood Jack Russell called Billy used to run up the wall and switch the light off and on.

What was the first pet you ever had?

Billy the Jack Russell.

If you could have any animal as a pet, what would it be?

A dog – I will always be a dog person at heart.

What would be your dream pet?

A golden retriever.

If you could be any animal what would you be?

A cat. It looks easy enough.