Kim- Why Cats are Loved

On a gloomy Sunday, four Penn State students: Taylor, Jenna, Blair and Abby, brighten their day by visiting the cats at Centre County PAWS. The four girls share their love and passion for cats, each excited to return to their own cats during winter break.

Since 1980, Centre County PAWS have been committed to finding forever homes for cats and dogs. As a non-euthanasia shelter, PAWS offer many services and programs for animal lovers.

You can have a birthday party feeding the cats, or elementary-age students can come to PAWS and read to cats. These interactions serve to socialize the cats and help the children develop their literary skills.

They also have fun events throughout the year to raise funds and spread the word about animal welfare. They hold fundraisers, such as Bingo, the Comedy Club and the Fur Ball.

According to Clara Jones, an adoption advisor, roughly 50 cats are able to find a home per month. The adoption process is through to ensure a happy ending for the adopted cats.

During their stay, PAWS’ cats are cared for and treated well. There’s always classical music playing in the playrooms, along with interactive toys and cat towers. Each cat is provided with a scratch board, warm bed and nutritious meals.

“I think cats are understated and misunderstood a little bit. I really enjoy interacting with them and they can be really affectionate like a lap cat or very independent souls. And I think people are like that too, so I like them,” says Aja Kukic-Bartoo.

For Aja, she wants to be a cat lady in the future. Currently a senior at State High, Aja frequently visits PAWS for her doses of cats. Later on, she hopes to become a foster parent.

“It would be hard to say goodbye to the cats when they get adopted,” says Aja. “But there’s something so satisfying about socializing a cat and helping to bring out its best features so that somebody else can love it.”

Otis, the grey cat, is currently adoption pending. According to his foster parent, Deanna Hoak, “Otis is a purr-filled lap kitty who also loves to play!” Crouton is still waiting for a lovable owner. He likes to meow a lot.

The cat side is much more visitor friendly, than the restricted dog side. Visitors can interact and play with the cats in individual rooms or in their cages. To visit or adopt an animal, visit Centre County Paws in Trout Road.