Having had the stitches from his toe amputation removed, it's now time for Merlin to work his loving magic in a forever home. Could you be his Nimue? Without the imprisoning him in a cave or hawthorn tree, obviously.

He's the most gorgeous and cwtchable black panther, whether you need a cuddle or not.

After several years of straying - he's possibly 3 or 4 years old - Merlin came to us with a poorly back leg, necessitating the removal of a toe. This hasn't hampered him in any way.

After a first evening of mostly hiding under the bed, his inquisitive and very friendly nature took over. He worked out that he could climb up my chest and encircle my face with his cone collar, licking nose, chin, or cheek while purring like a bee in a bottle.

He's happy anywhere that he can be comfortable - preferrably draped on and over his human; loves his food - of which there's never enough, as he'll tell you; perfect with the litter tray.

Merlin does need a good deal of brushing, presently, as he's moulting his fine, silky, coat. He's more than happy to stretch out whilst being groomed, but usually wants to play with the brush.

He's an early riser, tapping at my face with a sheathed-clawed paw if he thinks I'm pretending to sleep rather than feed him his breakfast (I usually am, for the cuteness of it