On Tuesday afternoon, third-year sociology student Veronica Rodriguez engaged with a Maine Coon cat in a mobile therapy unit known as the Therapod, located at Wilson Plaza. This event was part of the Cat Chow Cats As Therapy Project organized by Purina to emphasize the mental health benefits associated with interacting with cats.
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Participants eagerly queued to spend ten minutes in the Therapod—a mobile, transparent space filled with cats and a handler. "It was very therapeutic," Rodriguez remarked, noting the comfort of petting the cat and learning more about the initiative.
Annie Valuska, a pet behaviorist at Purina, pointed out that research indicates that even a brief interaction with a cat can significantly reduce stress levels. "We’re just trying to bring the healing power of cats to as many people as possible," her efforts highlighted.
Attendees could also contribute personal stories about their experiences with cats on a display called the Wall of Pawsitivity. The project's main objective is to share the comforting effects of cats with college students and the surrounding community.
Since its inception in May 2026, the Therapod has toured various universities across New York, Chicago, and eventually Los Angeles. Pet handler Joanne Carloni from Phoenix described the Therapod as a peaceful environment. She brought her own cat, Rigatoni, to the event, stating that being in the presence of a cat can reduce one's heart rate and alleviate negative feelings.
Third-year public health student Parmis Baroumand echoed this sentiment, finding her brief time with a cat to be a stress reliever. Valuska emphasized the program's intent to visit campuses during particularly stressful periods, such as the beginning of the academic year, to provide students with some relief.
Purina also supported the pet owners and handlers during the tour by providing resources like water and cat treats, according to Carloni. Rodriguez expressed her desire to attend similar events in the future, especially during finals week. Valuska added that the initiative aims to encourage interaction even among those who may not typically favor cats. “Our hope is that this event is going to raise awareness about the fact that cats can be outstanding therapy pets,” she said. “They do form deep bonds with people, and they can be extremely friendly and sociable.”