MASTER OF LITTERS: CAT NAMED MAX GIVEN HONORARY DEGREE BY US UNIVERSITY

Men named Max have won the Nobel prize (Planck), the Oscar for best actor (Schell), and multiple Formula One world championships (Verstappen).

In a heartwarming tale, a cat named Max has ascended to scholarly heights by receiving an honorary degree in “litter-ature” from Vermont State University. This campus-dwelling tabby, affectionately known as Max Dow, captured the hearts of many with his friendly demeanor and quickly became an internet sensation in circles dedicated to uplifting news.

Renowned for his prowess in napping and mouse hunting, Max has been a cherished member of the campus community in Castleton, Vermont, for several years. The university, in a playful Facebook post brimming with puns, announced the conferment of this unusual degree, highlighting Max’s integral role in campus life.

Bestowed with the prestigious title of “Doctor of Litter-ature,” Max now enjoys all the privileges that accompany such an esteemed position, including catnip perks, scratching-post privileges, and, of course, litter-box responsibilities. This whimsical gesture from Vermont State University underscores the special bond between humans and their feline companions, bringing joy to all who celebrate Max’s achievements.

“Congratulations Dr Max Dow!”

Max Dow is not participating in Vermont State’s graduation ceremony on Saturday, although the school plans to deliver his degree to his owner soon thereafter.

The local news website Vermont Public seized on the honorary degree announcement to delve into Max Dow’s life story.

Max Dow’s journey from a feral kitten in Fair Haven, Vermont, to a beloved campus companion in Castleton is a testament to resilience and the power of human-animal bonds. For the past five years, Max has shared a home with his human, Ashley Dow, in Castleton, but he has also become an integral part of Vermont State University’s Castleton campus community.

Throughout his time with Ashley, Max has been a familiar sight on campus, where students eagerly welcome him into their lives. From hitching rides in backpacks to becoming a favorite subject for photography classes, Max provides emotional support and companionship to students and faculty alike, as reported by Vermont Public.

Max’s role extends beyond mere campus presence; he accompanies prospective Vermont State students on tours, adding a unique and endearing touch to the university experience. Despite occasional challenges, such as encounters with feral cats, the campus community has rallied to protect Max, reflecting the deep affection and respect they hold for him.

In response to concerns for Max’s safety, Ashley Dow has placed signs around the school requesting that if Max is spotted outdoors after 5 pm, he be brought home. This collective effort to safeguard Max underscores the special place he holds in the hearts of those at Vermont State University.

“Students did actually bring him home,” Ashley Dow said to Vermont Public. “Or … they have my number, and I’ll get text messages from random students [saying] like, ‘He’s OK, he’s up by the greenhouse,’ and all of that.”

Dow recounted how one extended absence from campus for Max led students to erect a shrine commemorating him.

“It had candles and everything – and the picture of Max that they had printed out and put in a frame,” Dow recalled to Vermont Public.

“So yeah, it’s been pretty interesting to be Max’s mom.”