Vermont State University, USA, has just awarded a doctorate to a stray cat for its mouse-hunting talent and lovable personality.

Max – the name once associated with famous figures such as Max Planck (Nobel Prize in Physics), Max Schell (Best Actor Oscar) or Max Verstappen (Formula One champion) – now appears in an equally interesting story.

According to The Guardian, the stray tabby cat Max has become “Dr. Max Dow”, when Vermont State University (USA) awarded an honorary degree of “litter-ature” (a play on the words “litter” – toilet litter and “literature” – literature) for the mouse-hunting talent and lovable personality of the cat Max Dow.

Max Dow’s journey began from the days of wandering the streets of Fair Haven, Vermont. But 5 years ago, Max’s life turned a new page when Ms. Ashley Dow adopted him and brought him to Castleton.

Bằng tiến sĩ của mèo Max Dow. (Ảnh: Guardian)

Max Dow’s doctorate. (Photo: Guardian)

Since then, Max has become a familiar “resident” of the Vermont State University campus, where he is petted by students, rides on backpacks, is a “model” for photography classes and becomes a source of spiritual encouragement for many.

Not only is Max Dow a friendly cat, he is also a talented “rat fighter” and a “master” of afternoon naps. In recognition of this cat’s special contributions, the Vermont State University board of directors decided to award Max an honorary “litter-ature” doctorate, along with the “privilege” of using mint, scratching posts and litter boxes for free.

Sinh viên Đại học Bang Vermont chơi với chú mèo Max Dow. (Ảnh: Guardian)

Vermont State University students play with Max Dow the cat. (Photo: Guardian)

Max’s life hasn’t always been easy. He was once attacked by a stray cat, but the school community has always protected and loved him. They even built a “shrine” in his memory when he was absent from school for too long.