Kitten therapy a win-win scenario

Kitten therapy a win-win scenario


For residents in assisted living, transition from their prior homes and routines can be emotionally crushing. One way to brighten the darkness is with therapy animals — even when it happens out of the blue.

When the business manager of an assisted-living center brought several foster kittens to her office, she was only thinking about caring for them while she was at work. But once the cat was out of the bag — so to speak — the scenario took on a life of its own. Residents came to cuddle the adorable furballs and now, every Wednesday is Kitten Therapy Day. It’s been transformative for even the most despondent residents.

The kittens benefit, too. There’s a very short window during which they can be socialized — thus becoming more adoptable — and interaction with the seniors meets that need. It’s the most heartwarming of win-win situations.

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