Can my Cat be on TV?

Making your cat a superstar isn’t easy…

Everyone at Cat Diaries is convinced that Cornelius has what it takes to be the next feline superstar. ‘Get lost, Garfield!’ we say. ‘Move over, Felix…’

Of course, almost all cat owners are biased when it comes to the qualities their pet exhibits. But just because a cat is super-cute doesn’t necessarily mean that he or she will have what it takes in front of the cameras.

Big cat, small pond

When it comes to film and television work, Australia is a very small producer. Just having a flick through your TV guide will let you know that there is a negligible output of locally produced content (especially content that would ever have need of a cat actor – Cat Idol, anyone?).

So while there are dedicated animal acting agencies in the US, there is nothing comparable in this country. However, a number of the US agencies have international databases – which makes sense given that Hollywood productions are often filmed overseas, with quite a number taking place in Australia.

For example, Hollywood Animals’ Animal Acting Agency asks for submissions from overseas as well as US-based pet owners. However, if you’re considering signing up your cat on the basis of looks alone, think again! The agency also stresses that ‘when a production company hires an animal for a shoot, they are hiring the animal for its ability. Trained behaviours are more important than “cuteness”…’

Training is the key

Beau is a Labrador who has appeared in a number of advertisements and on television shows in Australia. On one occasion he was required to retrieve a ball and bring it back to his actor ‘owner’. He did exactly what he was told on the first take. The only problem was… the director then decided that he didn’t want Beau to run back, he wanted him to walk.
Many dogs understand the command ‘Come!’. But how they decide to act on it invariably comes down to personal preference. Some may rush up, others may stroll. In the end, Beau’s handler gave the command very slowly. It worked. Beau trotted sedately back to his mark and director was happy.

That’s just an example of the sort of direction animal actors may be required to take. Which may present a problem where cats are concerned.

Cats are renowned for their independence. However, professional trainers such as Karen Thomas of the Hollywood Paws agency insist that ‘with the right system of rewards and commands’ cats can indeed be taught to come to you when called, amongst other ‘tricks’.

Make sure your cat is happy

But the most important thing to consider has to be your cat’s happiness. Sure, it would be nice to see him or her on screen (and that extra bit of pocket money wouldn’t go astray, either!), but remember that film and TV sets alternate between being deadly dull and chaotic.

If your cat won’t take easily to waiting around doing nothing for hours, but has to be ready to go at a second’s notice, acting probably isn’t for her. Equally, if she’s at all timid of sudden loud noises or isn’t likely to appreciate the super-hot, super-bright studio lights, it would be best not to inflict that on her.

But don’t worry if that is the case – there’s plenty of extras work for humans!

Image by: farm4