The nonprofit organization Team Kitten partnered with Washburn to host the “Paws and Relax” event on May 7, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Held in the Plass pit, students had the opportunity to sit and relax while holding and playing with kittens. The enjoyment of getting to be around the cute felines helped students destress and relax ahead of finals week.
The event has been a part of Washburn’s success week activities recently for its second year, and thanks to the success and participation of Paws and Relax, Team Kitten has planned to partner with the Aleshire Center in the future to host more kitten days.
“If college students want to adopt a cat,there’s the opportunity to go into the rescue organization, but also for students to come in and pet a kitten before finals,” said Erica Guldner, senior biology major.
Guldner is a student as well as volunteer for Team Kitten, the foster based kitten rescue. Her work involves checking in on cats, cleaning, feeding and giving them attention. After being checked out, the cats are taken to Topeka Cat Cafe, a foster home, where they receive care and medical attention by volunteers.
“I think animals are a great way for students to relax,” said Leah Spurlock, junior public administration major. “A lot of students have service dogs for emotional support and I think that’s a great option for students to have to help with their emotional and mental health.”
Spurlock was one of the many students who attended the event. Being able to take in the fun and hold a kitten was an exciting experience, not just for her but everyone else who was in attendance, showing that events like these are a positive and heartwarming experience for students whether they have pets or not.
Coming together and getting to spend time with friends and felines near the end of the year benefits their mental wellbeing while also bringing joy during a stressful end to the year like finals week.
Most “Paws and Relax” events feature both dog and cat pop ups but the puppy visit was unfortunately cancelled last minute.
If students are in need or interested for more time with kittens and cats, the Topeka Cat Cafe offers a discount for Washburn students, and Team Kitten is set to provide more cat days through the upcoming years.
Edited by Stuti Khadka
