Vermont college confers honorary doctorate in 'litter-ature' to campus cat

CASTLETON, Vt. (TND) — Max, a friendly feline that lives in the neighborhood aroundVermont State University’s Castleton campus, can add another title to his resume on top of "good cat" and "soft kitty": doctor.

The tabby tuxedo cat, who lives with a family on the street that leads to campus, was given the honorary degree of "doctor of litter-ature" ahead of the main, human student body graduation Saturday.

University officials said Max was receiving the degree for his notable friendliness and the rapport he has built up with the entire campus, from students to faculty and staff, over the last four years.

“Max the Cat has been an affectionate member of the Castleton family for years,” the school said in a Facebook post.

Ashley Dow, Dr. Max's owner told the Associated Press that he just decided one day "that he would go up on campus, and he just started hanging out with the college students, and they love him."

Dow, who students refer to as "Max's mom" added that he's been exploring the campus and socializing with residents for four years.

Students "get excited when they see him," she said, explaining they often pick him up and take selfies with him. Dr. Max also likes to go on tours with prospective students, since they meet at a building across from his house.

Max was not invited to walk across the stage with his fellow graduates but his formal degree will be delivered at a later time.