Truda Straede

Truda became a pedigree cat breeder in 1976, combining her ecological concerns with her interest in cat breeding. From her idea for an “environmentally friendly” pet cat, she developed the Australian Mist—Australia’s only homegrown pedigree cat breed.

Her contribution to the cat world soon extended beyond breeding and judging. Truda served on feline management committees in both New South Wales and Victoria, contributing to Breeds and Breeding Regulations Subcommittees and Feline Health and Veterinary Subcommittees. In 2001, the NSW Cat Fanciers’ Association recognised her service with its first Distinguished Service Award.

Truda Straede at home with Brethil, an Australian Mist
Photo: Truda at home with Brethil, Australian Mist

Truda shares her home with Yum Yum, a very old retired Australian Mist queen, and a young lady named Raffia, along with an ever-changing tide of Australian Mist and Maine Coon kittens. During their final weeks with Truda, the kittens learn about living in a home before leaving for their forever homes.

Truda has also represented cat governing bodies in NSW and Victoria on government advisory committees concerned with animal welfare and companion-animal policy. Her work included emergency planning for the evacuation of companion animals, developing Codes of Practice under animal welfare regulations, and serving on the working party that advised on the development of the NSW Companion Animal Act, implemented in mid-1997. She subsequently became a foundation member of the Board established under the legislation.

Writing and education have remained central to her work. Truda has edited the RAS Cat Control Journal and written extensively about cat health, genetics, breeding and management. Her publications include the breeders’ handbook Breeding Cats..... A Practical Guide, magazine articles and specialist books about the Australian Mist.

Now based in West Gippsland, Victoria, Truda continues to run a large breeding cattery and pursue her interests as a cat judge, Australian Mist and Maine Coon breeder and exhibitor, and writer. Through Australian National Cats Inc. (ANCATS), she has focused particularly on improving the quality of life of pedigree cats through the continuing education of fellow breeders.

Her work reflects a lifelong commitment to cat health, welfare, responsible breeding and the relationship between companion cats and the wider environment.