“Genie’s Christmas Wish” tells the story of black-and-white cat Genie, who was a dedicated companion to schoolgirl Evie as she braved intensive treatment for bone cancer in 2016.

Evie, who was 11 at the time, endured six rounds of chemotherapy, several operations and lengthy hospital stays away from home. While she was separated from her beloved cat, the bond she had built with Genie provided plenty of comfort during the tough times.

Depicted in the animation, watching videos of Genie from her hospital bed helped keep her positive, as well as the promise of a reunion with her feline companion.

She said: “I missed Genie every day I was in hospital and my family could tell she missed me. She’s my best friend and is always there when I need her.”

Evie and Genie’s bond was so strong that her family decided to nominate Genie for Cats Protection’s National Cat Awards in 2017. As well as winning the title of Outstanding Rescue Cat, she was also awarded the overall title of the nation’s Top Cat at a ceremony held at the Savoy Hotel in London.

“Genie’s Christmas wish” was produced almost entirely in-house at Cats Protection – from its brief and inception to the final film. The hope is that the animation will highlight the often amazing impact that cats have on our lives.

Cats Protection wins charity film award for Christmas animation