FOLLOWING in the pawprints of National Dog Photography Day, when you sent us your shots of man's best friend, it's now the turn of an altogether more aloof animal.

We asked readers on our social media pages to send their favourite pictures of their feline companions for National Cat Day.

For the full list please see our Facebook page, but these ones were our favourites - by a whisker.

News and Star: Lily, stripy and luxurious. Picture: Nicola CoulthardLily, stripy and luxurious. Picture: Nicola Coulthard

News and Star: Oliver, a cat with excellent ears. Picture: Naomi LittleOliver, a cat with excellent ears. Picture: Naomi Little

News and Star: Cookie from Whitehaven. Picture: Adrian Strand Cookie from Whitehaven. Picture: Adrian Strand

News and Star: Willow in a tree. Picture: Casey JohnstonWillow in a tree. Picture: Casey Johnston

News and Star: Just a cat in a box. Picture: Cathrine WillsJust a cat in a box. Picture: Cathrine Wills

News and Star: A very chilled out cat. Picture: Jason McEwanA very chilled out cat. Picture: Jason McEwan

News and Star: Willie, an old gentleman at 18 years old. Picture: Katie MaxwellWillie, an old gentleman at 18 years old. Picture: Katie Maxwell

News and Star: Very photogenic Bella. Picture: Kerry Louise Fisher Very photogenic Bella. Picture: Kerry Louise Fisher

News and Star: Ollie the house cat. Picture: Margaret GreerOllie the house cat. Picture: Margaret Greer

News and Star: Sofa surfer. Picture: Nic BarnesSofa surfer. Picture: Nic Barnes

News and Star: Picture: Tracy DrydenPicture: Tracy Dryden

News and Star: "My gorgeous boy Tiggs, sadly no longer with us, but forever in my heart". Picture: Tracy Sturgess "My gorgeous boy Tiggs, sadly no longer with us, but forever in my heart". Picture: Tracy Sturgess

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READ MORE: You send your best pooch pictures to celebrate National Dog Photography Day