Chai 2024 Cover Model Winner

As you all know, our annual cover model competition is the most popular of all competitions we host during the year. To be crowned the winner is truly something to be excited about. The 2024 title has been awarded to Chai, a very charismatic cat with a story that has the very best ending. Chai’s triumph is not merely a victory for him but a celebration of the countless rescue animals around the world. It serves as a reminder that every animal, regardless of their start in life, has the potential to bring immense joy and inspiration to those who open their hearts and homes.

It serves as a reminder that every animal, regardless of their start in life, has the potential to bring immense joy and inspiration to those who open their hearts and homes.

In a heartwarming tale that unfolds like a modern-day fairy tale, Chai, the feline sensation, takes us on an extraordinary journey from humble beginnings on the side of the road to being the crowned winner of the cover model competition. His story resonates not just as a narrative of survival but as a testament to the transformative power of love and second chances.

The (literal) Road to Stardom

Chai and his brother Jinzi found themselves abandoned on the side of the road in Bethlehem at a tender six weeks of age. Their fate took a fortunate turn when a guardian angel named Karen rescued them, providing temporary care until their paths led them to the Cluny Animal Trust. It was here that Chai’s resilience and spirit caught the attention of Lucy Porter, who, upon spotting their endearing photos on social media, decided to open her heart and home to these two abandoned souls.

Chai was a very small and underdeveloped little kitten due to a bad start in life, but he didn’t let that get him down. His spirit wanted to live and today he is living the dream. The journey from vulnerability to security symbolizes the quintessential rag-to-riches narrative.

Jet-Setting Adventures

Their adventure started and truly took flight when Chai and Jinzi embarked on a journey from Fouriesburg to Johannesburg, a stopover with Imogen and her daughter providing a pre-flight haven. The actual flight to Cape Town, managed by Animal Travel Services, marked a daunting yet triumphant chapter. Chai and Jinzi were very fortunate to have each other during the flight. Though scary, the end destination was in their very excited new mommy’s arms.

The seamless integration into their new home is a testament to the resilience of these two feline companions.

Once they’ve made Cape town their new home, Chai and Jinzi took to town at Lucy’s house, with Chai singling out the curtain-climbing escapade as a favourite. The anticipation of mom’s return and the subsequent playful explorations around the house provide a delightful glimpse into the daily life of this spirited feline duo.

Family playtime involves an array of dangle toys, a tunnel adventure, and a cozy round cardboard bed which Chai and Jinzi love sharing for an afternoon nap. These shared moments of play and relaxation not only strengthen their familial bonds but also serve as a testament to the joy derived from simple pleasures.

Charming Personality Traits

Beyond his photogenic appeal, Chai possesses an array of charming personality traits that have endeared him to the Potter household. Chai possesses a cunning yet adorable side to his nature, when asking for wet food, that his mom spoils him with, he uses a little bird chirping sound to make her aware that her services are required, since he hasn’t mastered the art of opening the sachet himself. His affectionate demeanour, characterized by a purr like a tractor and gentle kisses during cuddle sessions, makes him a beloved member of the family.

Sibling dynamics with Jinzi involve the usual squabbles, swiftly resolved by mom’s intervention and distractions with toys. Chai and Jinzi get on very well. They enjoy playing, sleeping together and cleaning each other. The camaraderie shared among the feline family members, including older brother Loki, adds layers of warmth to their daily lives.

Lucy’s Love

Lucy Porter, the proud cat mom, shares her immediate connection with Chai and Jinzi. “It had been a year since I lost my old rescue cat, and when I saw Jinzi and Chai’s photos, I instantly fell in love with them,” Lucy reminisces. Jinzi, in particular, played a crucial role in helping Chai overcome his initial shyness. “He was a little timid boy when he arrived,” Lucy recalls, underscoring the transformative impact of a loving home.

The addition of Chai and Jinzi brought a positive shift to the family dynamics. “They have fit in so well. Loki loves having the company,” Lucy notes. The brothers, true love bugs, have embraced their second chance at a joyous life. “Both are absolute love bugs, and I am just so happy that I was able to give them a second chance,” Lucy adds, her voice filled with gratitude.

Entering Chai into the Pet Prints cover model competition was motivated by his undeniable photogenic charm. Lucy admits, “I was surprised as he had strong opposition, but Chai’s charm prevailed.” The positive response and Chai’s victory in the competition not only solidified his status as a cover model but also brought joy to the entire Porter household.

Lucy describes a typical day filled with Chai’s morning snack demands, playful passages, and cozy bedtime rituals. “Chai has a routine of running to the kitchen for his evening snack—he does love his food!” Lucy shares, offering a glimpse into the delightful routines that shape their everyday lives. From morning chats to evening cuddles, each moment is a testament to the inseparable bond between Lucy and her feline companions.

Adopt, Don’t Shop

Lucy passionately advocates for adopting rescue pets. “They all need a second chance in life,” she emphasizes. Her advice for seamless integration: “Slowly introduce them to the other family members; it took us a month to integrate everyone together in the house.” Lucy’s commitment to rescue adoption reflects a broader sentiment of compassion and empathy for animals that have faced challenging starts in life.

To those considering adopting pets, Lucy’s advice is simple yet profound: “Give them lots of love and TLC, and spend a lot of time with them. It will always create a strong bond.” The cherished moments of love, play, and shared joy have woven a tapestry of warmth and companionship that defines life in the Potter household.

Chai’s tale, from a road-side rescue to cover model stardom, embodies the transformative power of love and second chances. Lucy and her feline family remind us that the journey from rags to riches is, indeed, a heartwarming adventure—a journey filled with love, joy, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow. As we celebrate Chai’s victory, we are also reminded of the countless stories waiting to unfold in the lives of rescue animals, each deserving of their very own second chance.