It’s been 11 amazing years since Cedric, the adorable cat, was rescued from the streets as a tiny kitten by his devoted mom, Anita Corrie Schellevis.
Little did they know that Cedric’s life would take a fascinating turn and lead him to become not just a cat, but an artist in his own right.
Anita quickly realized that Cedric was no ordinary feline. Besides being incredibly loving and caring, he had a surprisingly considerate nature.
As Anita puts it, “He is the best cat I have ever had. He doesn’t touch or wreck anything.” Well, almost anything.
There is one notable exception in Cedric’s behavior that Anita is quick to mention. Despite having multiple scratching posts scattered throughout the house, Cedric has dedicated all his clawing efforts to a single banister at the top of the stairs. Anita recalls, “He took to the post right away.”
In 2012, a young Cedric first sank his claws into that pristine banister, embarking on a mission that no one could have foreseen. Eleven years later, Cedric’s artistic endeavor is still ongoing, and the banister has become unrecognizable under his skilled paws.
“He scratches at the post at least three or four times a day,” Anita reveals. “His favorite time to scratch it is when people come over to visit. It’s like a show-off thing.” For Cedric, this is his way of sharing his unique gift with the world.
Anita has accepted that the banister would be forever transformed by Cedric’s insatiable desire to scratch it, and she has never discouraged him. As she explains, “The post was Cedric’s from day one.” It has become a symbol of his artistic expression.
Over the years, the banister has significantly dwindled down, but Cedric has yet to apply his final touch. Even after 11 years, it remains a work in progress. Some may argue that Cedric has “destroyed” the wooden banister with his relentless clawing, but just like any art form, its beauty lies in the eye of the beholder.
Cedric certainly sees it that way, and Anita agrees wholeheartedly. “He’s totally proud of himself!” Anita exclaims. “It’s definitely a conversation piece. The post is right in the middle of my house, so it’s very noticeable. My only complaint is the slivers it makes. Not so much fun stuck in your shoes!”
