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On the advice of his veterinarian, Salem will be an indoor cat going forward and adopted into a safe, loving home.
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The recommendation comes after Salem had to be treated multiple times for ailments sustained outside.
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“In the interest of his safety, it would be beneficial for ‘Salem’ to live indoors moving forward,” said Dr. Perez of the Salem Animal Hospital.
This winter, a paw infection landed Salem in the vet’s office. It also prompted extensive soul searching about the best way to keep the lovable tabby safe and healthy going forward.
On the advice of Salem’s veterinarian, who noted he’s suffered previous injuries living outside, a decision has been made to find the 3-year-old cat a loving, permanent home where he can live comfortably indoors.
“This has been a hard discussion,” said Diane Wing, student activities coordinator and advisor to the Campus Cat Club formed to help look out for Salem. “But we have to do what is best for him. That’s getting him into a safe, stable home where he’ll always be cared for. If he keeps living outside, there’s no telling what might happen to him.”
Salem became an unofficial campus mascot after working his way into people’s hearts when he started haunting the Back Quad, near the Colket Center, in spring 2022. The cat club amassed over 100 student members, and Roanoke College administrators earmarked funds for his food and medical care.
But with time, it’s become clear the arrangement isn't in his best long-term interest.
“‘Salem has previously been seen for injuries that he sustained outside,” Dr. Perez, a veterinarian at the Salem Animal Hospital, wrote this semester in a letter to the College. “In the interest of his safety, it would be beneficial for ‘Salem’ to live indoors moving forward.”
Since his infection, Salem has been cared for indoors as recommended and is doing well staying off-campus with a member of the Roanoke College community. His response to the creature comforts of house cat life cemented the decision to find him an adoptive home.
“He’s been doing great,” said Joe Boucher, director of student activities.
Having Salem on campus was a well-intentioned experiment that allowed students to share in a bit of the pet ownership experience, Boucher said. Caring for animals makes us better, more empathetic people. But it also comes with a great responsibility.
“If we care about Salem, we have to put him first,” Boucher said. “It’s the right thing. I like to think of it as if he’s graduating with the Class of 2024. Like them, he was able to come here, find a supportive community and get what he needed until he was ready for his next adventure in life.”
Roanoke College administrators are ensuring Salem is adopted into a good home. There are no plans to return him to the outdoors. No volunteers for adoption are needed.