The Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra (IPC) has welcomed a new addition: União, a “young cat rescued from the streets.” The feline arrived at the university’s facilities last week after being “carefully selected for its friendly nature.”
The association Grupo Gatos Urbanos shared on Facebook that IPC’s new presidency decided to bring “joy to employees and the entire community” after learning about the loss of a cat “cared for by staff, which passed away this summer due to renal failure.”
The statement reads, “The animal, a young cat rescued from the streets by Grupo Gatos Urbanos, has just arrived at the Central Services of the Polytechnic of Coimbra and is in the adaptation phase.”
The cat, chosen for its “friendly character and adaptability,” was named União by the President of the Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra, Cândida Malça.
União is a “frajola” cat, known in English as a tuxedo cat, characterized by its black and white coat, resembling a tuxedo, explained Grupo Gatos Urbano.
The feline “was welcomed by the leaders and staff of the Central Services and is completing the vaccination protocol.” It also has a “microchip, full deworming, and a health certificate confirming the absence of zoonoses.”
Currently, the cat is still adapting and enjoying “visits and affection from everyone,” but once familiar with the new environment, it “will be able to roam the garden” of IPC’s Central Services.
The expenses related to the IPC’s “special companion” will be “covered by leaders and staff.”
The decision to adopt a new animal highlights “a show of empathy, compassion, and social responsibility,” which is “the hallmark of IPC,” emphasized the association.
