Mayo cat claims runner-up spot at national competition

Ireland has chosen its favourite pets! After more than 1,550 entries and an incredible 56,000 public votes, the winner of the 2025 Nose of Tralee has been announced.

This year’s crown goes to Mr Cooper, a two-year-old mini Bernedoodle from Tipperary. The runner-up is Buddy, a blind senior rescue cat proudly representing Mayo.

Now in its twelfth year, the Nose of Tralee is Ireland’s largest pet competition, run by Pet Sitters Ireland, with pets from all 32 counties taking part. While cats and dogs make up most of the entries, the competition also welcomed horses, birds, lizards, and even a goat this year.

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Mr Cooper’s story is one of love after loss. Following the heartbreak of losing their dog Scamp, his family weren’t sure they were ready for another pet. But when a family in Dublin needed to rehome their Bernedoodle, fate stepped in. From the moment they met him, Mr Coops stole their hearts. With his cheeky grin, fun-loving nature, and endless cuddles, he’s now the king of their castle and adored by two families.

Buddy’s journey is one of resilience. Rescued by the North West SPCA in Ballina after being abandoned, Buddy has overcome incredible challenges, including losing an eye to surgery. Despite his blindness, he explores confidently, sniffs out treats with ease, and brings joy to everyone he meets. His family say he proves that “what makes us different is what makes us special.”

This year’s competition began with public voting to select the top three pets in each county, before judges chose the final 32. The finalists then campaigned across social media, local communities, and even on radio to secure votes.