Riikka provided insights into her cats, sharing details about their ages and breeds (or lack thereof). Sämpy, with a resemblance to a Norwegian Forest cat, is a 6-year-old feline who adores outdoor escapades. On the flip side, Elmeri, an 11-year-old grey domestic cat, tends to stay close to home. Hiski, a 2-year-old tabby with no white paws, is half Norwegian Forest cat. All of them are neutered males. Unfortunately, Nelli, the grey-white cat featured on Riikka’s site, passed away earlier this year. During the winter months, Riikka constructs obstacles in the yard for her cats to leap over, and they seem to relish this activity. While Elmeri and Hiski may not be as adventurous as Sämpy, they occasionally partake in walks and playtime.
Riikka enthusiastically shared her recent achievement of winning Photographer of the Year in a Finnish photography magazine competition, earning her a high-speed camera as a prize. Excited to put it to the test, she captured a breathtaking mid-air shot of her cat, Sämpy. When she shared this photo with a local newspaper, it garnered so much attention that a journalist was dispatched to cover the feline’s story. This surge in interest led to numerous requests for Sämpy to have his own Facebook page, eventually resulting in the creation of an Instagram account. The popularity of these social media accounts, according to Sämpy’s owner, stems from the natural and playful outdoor photos, devoid of any forced posing. In her view, the best cat pictures are those where the cat is simply being itself.
Sämpy, the cherished cat, has graced the pages of two books thus far. The initial book, titled ‘Cat Year,’ made its debut in 2016. Following its success, the publisher approached Riikka, Sämpy’s owner, for a photo book dedicated to the feline. This recently published book has been a new addition to their literary collaborations. Apart from these books, Sämpy and Riikka have teamed up on calendars for three consecutive years. Although selecting images for the books presented a challenge, professional assistance from the publishing house proved invaluable. While Riikka contributed some text, the books primarily serve as captivating picture books. The captions, written in the local dialect, have garnered significant appreciation. As for the future, there are no concrete plans, but any proposals are welcomed. However, Sämpy’s aversion to travel means that he must stay home. Whether someone wishes to feature Sämpy in an animated movie or use his image on a wallpaper or keychain, it’s all acceptable, as long as the cat can remain in the comfort of his home.
Sämpy Co. has transformed into an internet sensation, captivating the hearts of people globally with over 104,000 followers on Instagram and 43,000 fans on Facebook. While a substantial portion of its supporters hails from Finland, Sämpy’s fame knows no borders. Enthusiastic fans eagerly anticipate the latest snapshots of Sämpy and its companions, Hiskias, Elmeri, and Nelli. Intriguingly, Nelli, despite residing in Northern Finland, has a distaste for playing with the other cats and harbors a dislike for the cold weather.
In a recent interview with a Finnish blogger, Sämpy divulged more about itself. According to the journalist, Sämpy responded to the questions independently. “I reside in Kalime village, situated in the north of Oulu,” shared the fluffy and chubby cat. Sämpy further unveiled its favorite pastime, which involves hunting mice and moles. Despite a keen interest in catching birds, Sämpy acknowledged that they are too swift for its skills. Sämpy takes pleasure in the company of its Secretary of Forest Trips and feline friend, Elmeri. The cat’s daily diet consists of dry and wet food, with occasional indulgences in meat and salmon. However, butter holds a special place in Sämpy’s heart as its preferred treat. “Sometimes, I get a small dollop of butter. Aaaaah. And yes, I hear when the butter box is being opened,” expressed Sämpy.
Sämpy also shared insights about its owner, or as it playfully referred to her, the “secretary.” The Secretary assumes the roles of Sämpy’s servant and maid, frequently directing a camera toward the cat. Before departing, the Secretary ensures to prepare breakfast for the feline. Sämpy has a preference for sleeping outdoors, especially in the grass when the weather is favorable. However, it occasionally finds repose on the sofa or refrigerator and even in the sauna, provided it’s not too hot. Come summer, Sämpy takes charge, issuing directives to the other cats and mice in the neighborhood.
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