About Us
Our story...
In the era before the advent of amusing dog videos for cat amusement, our iconic catnip mice came into existence. The precise date of the first creation remains unknown, but it's established that it was more than 40 years ago.
By 1988, the guardianship of these toys was handed over to the Zebedee family, who not only rebranded but also gave the mice the familiar name of Zebedee's. This transition ensured that the production stayed within the same community, nestled just outside the New Forest in Hampshire.
Come April 2017, a notable shift occurred when the Zebedee family, after a commendable 29-year tenure, handed the reins over to a dedicated 'mouse maker'. Despite this change, the essence of the business remained unchanged. They continued to operate as a family-owned entity situated in the tranquil region of Dorset in the South of England, committed to preserving the quality Zebedee's is known for. Zebedee's has since been trademarked ready for it's next chapter.
In a significant development during 2023, the entrepreneurial duo, Robert and Emma, took a leap of faith and acquired Zebedee's, infusing the business with fresh energy and visions of expansion. Their plan isn't just to widen the product assortment but to also elevate Zebedee's presence, making these beloved catnip mice a household name among cat owners nationwide.
Robert's connection to Zebedee's runs deep. Having grown up in the pet trade, he has a lifelong affinity with the brand, having stocked Zebedee's products in his family's pet shop for many years. This history makes his transition from a longtime vendor to the owner of Zebedee's not just a business venture, but the fulfillment of a long-cherished dream. For him, it’s more than taking over a successful business; it's about continuing a legacy that holds personal significance. Emma, alongside Robert, brings her own set of skills and enthusiasm to the table, poised to steer Zebedee's into its next chapter. Together, they envision a future where Zebedee's is not just a brand, but a staple in the lives of cat enthusiasts across the country, enriching the lives of pets and their owners alike.
This new chapter under their care signifies a blend of tradition and innovation, with plans to maintain the high-quality craftsmanship Zebedee's is known for while exploring new avenues to delight their kitty clientele.
Where to buy
Over the many years that our mice have been made, we have established strong relationships with Retailers & Distributors alike. This means that you should be able to find us in your local pet shop (in the UK), even those little ones burrowed in high streets.
If your local pet shop doesn't already have our mice, please make a request with them - either their distributor will be able to help, or the shop in question can contact us directly.
Of course you can also purchase from us direct on this very website!