Vermont State University’s Castleton campus has honoured Max the cat, a beloved member of its community, an honorary “doctor of litter-ature” degree.

“Max the cat has been an affectionate member of the Castleton family for years,” the school said in a Facebook post.

The popular tabby lives with his human family near to the main entrance to campus. After roaming the campus for four years the cat has been granted this special recognition.

Max has been described as a “celebrity” on campus and an emotional support animal for the students. The five-year-old cat is listed in the school faculty and has his own email address.

Max is officially part of the university’s 2024 graduating class. He had a diploma made with corny cat puns and the university posted a photo of Max wearing a cat-size graduation hat to celebrate.