The cat companion of a former Big Issue seller who told his story of adopting a ginger tabby named Bob in his bestselling memoir, A Street Cat Named Bob has died at aged “at least 14”. James Bowen credits his cat companion who he found abandoned and injured in 2007 with saving his life from drug addiction. The book led to successful sequels, music for charity and a film adaptation released in 2016. Links to earlier articles are at base of page.

Bob and James at a book signing. Photo: Getty Images.

Bowen and his publisher released a statement

Hodder & Stoughton and James Bowen are saddened to announce the death of Bob the cat on 15 June at the age of at least 14 years.

Bowen said:

Bob saved my life. It’s as simple as that. He gave me so much more than companionship. With him at my side, I found a direction and purpose that I’d been missing. The success we achieved together through our books and films was miraculous. He’s met thousands of people, touched millions of lives. There’s never been a cat like him. And never will again. I feel like the light has gone out in my life. I will never forget him. He came and asked me for help, and he needed me more than I needed to abuse my own body. He is what I wake up for every day now. He’s definitely given me the right direction to live my life.

James Bowden and Bob the cat. Photo by Annie Mole on Flickr

Jamee Bowen and Bob.

Bob soaking up the adulation while James signs the books. Photo by Abigail Silvester

Some pages on James and Bob

Bob the Cat flies first class to promote new movie “A Street Cat Named Bob”

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