Campus Cat Gets ‘Doctor of Litter-ature’ Degree From US University, Internet Says 'PurrFect Scholar'

A Vermont University awarded Max the cat, a cherished member of the community, the honorary degree of “doctor of litter-ature" before the students’ graduation on Saturday. A tabby cat, well-known for his need for attention and his amiable attitude, has established himself as a campus staple at the New England school. The well-liked tabby and his human family reside in a home on the street that leads to the university’s main entrance.

The Castleton campus of Vermont State University wrote on Facebook, “Max the Cat has been an affectionate member of the Castleton family for years."

Max has been delighting students and staff by meandering through the university’s hallways for many years.

The social-media post read, “With a resounding purr of approval from the faculty, the Board of Trustees of the Vermont State Cat-leges has bestowed upon Max Dow the prestigious title of Doctor of Litter-ature, complete with all the catnip perks, scratching post privileges, and litter box responsibilities that come with it."

Ashley Dow, Max’s owner, told the Associated Press that the inquisitive cat began coming onto campus some years ago in an attempt to engage with the students.

He seems to know when and when to meet potential students because he likes to be picked up, played with and even take part in campus tours.

Students even pick him up to snap photographs with him, according to the Associated Press.

“I don’t even know how he knows to go, but he does," Dow said. “And then he’ll follow them on their tour."

Dow, who goes as “Max’s mom" in the Castleton community, claimed to have chatted with graduates who come back to the town and inquire about Max’s well-being.

Dow laughs as she tells Vermont Public that once the cat stopped coming up to school, they built a shrine for him.

It included candles and the print of Max’s photo that they had framed.

The institution has assured that Max’s degree will be delivered shortly, but the friendly cat won’t be making an appearance on stage at the next commencement event.

The graduating ceremony is set for Saturday at 10:30 a.m., according to Vermont Public.