Max the Cat cruises into the hearts of senior citizens
This three-legged Persian has visited many retirees over the years, earning quite the social media following
DELTA TOWNSHIP, Mich. (Aging Untold) — Every Wednesday for several years, Max the therapy cat has been “couch cruising” at Delta Retirement Center, wheeling past wheelchairs and “paws”ing to say hello to residents who eagerly await his weekly visits.
The cotton candy blue Persian cat has become a beloved fixture at the facility, bringing laughter and smiles to seniors who look forward to seeing his charismatic personality.
“It’s good to see him,” Bill, one of the residents who enjoys Max’s visits, said.
Max’s unique story began when Deb Small adopted him from the Capital Area Humane Society. The cat had been so severely abused by his previous owner that his hind leg required amputation.
“At that point, it was a no-brainer. I said, ‘He’s coming home with me and nobody’s going to hurt this animal again,’” Small said.
After helping Max heal physically, Small decided to put him to work helping seniors heal emotionally. She now calls him “a champion for the elderly, because that’s his role.”
While Delta Retirement Center serves as his home base, Max has expanded his mission, visiting seniors at retirement centers and nursing homes throughout mid-Michigan.
“And so we hope that when we leave, they feel important, that somebody took the time to come out and see them,” Small said.
The cat has also traveled to the Mackinac Bridge, Niagara Falls and local car shows, where he won first place cruising in Holt.
His adventures have earned him a significant social media following, with 9,000 followers across 154 countries on Facebook, including fans in Australia, Antarctica, Siberia, Russia, China and Japan.
“He does like to travel,” Small noted, explaining that Max enjoys being on the move while spreading his message that seniors matter.
Small emphasizes that Max’s work serves a deeper purpose beyond entertainment.
“I think what Max does and what my goal is is to let people know that they have value in this world,” she said.
Despite his disability, Max continues his therapy work with enthusiasm. Small describes herself as simply “the driver” and “the manager,” while Max remains “the star.”
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