Student-Led Club Makes Big Impact on Campus Cats at University of Dayton
At the University of Dayton (UD), a group of passionate students is proving that compassion and community can make a real difference for animals in need. Paws with Claws, UD’s first student organization dedicated to cat advocacy, has already helped nine community cats find safety, medical care, and loving homes since launching in 2024.
The club formed in response to a now-famous feline named Sophia, a pregnant community cat spotted near student housing. When psychology student Cathleen Ganzel reached out to Associate Professor Julie Walsh-Messinger—known for her love of cats—the foundation for Paws with Claws was laid. With support from faculty and local rescue group Gem City Kitties, Sophia and her kittens were fostered, cared for, and rehomed.
Now an official student organization, Paws with Claws is tackling the campus cat population through a smart and humane approach: TNR (trap-neuter-return) for feral cats, and adoption or foster placement for socialized cats and kittens. The group has also built outdoor cat shelters for the colder months, hosted bake sales and jewelry fundraisers, and is working to expand UD’s foster network.
“Cats reproduce very early on, and just one mother and her kittens can lead to over 100 more cats,” said club president Madalynn Skelton. “Spaying and neutering helps prevent overpopulation. We only have so many resources, so if we can limit the cats that exist, we can help the ones that do.”
Walsh-Messinger, who serves as the club’s faculty advisor, sees Paws with Claws as a powerful bridge between students and the surrounding community. “It’s been fun to see the interest students have,” she said. “As a faculty member, I’ve connected with students in a new and meaningful way.”
The club’s efforts echo what Ohio Animal Advocates knows to be true: engaging young people and forming community partnerships is key to creating long-term, humane solutions to cat overpopulation. Their collaboration with Gem City Kitties not only provides access to low-cost veterinary care but also highlights how rescue groups and campuses can work together to create real impact.
Ohio’s college campuses are home to many community cats—but they’re also full of students who care deeply and want to help. Paws with Claws is proof that when those two groups come together, incredible things can happen.
Want to help cats in your community?
Support or start a TNR program - contact OAA for assistance
Partner with local rescues for foster and adoption
Engage student groups in hands-on advocacy
Spread the word: community cats deserve compassion
Attend OAA and Together Initiative's 5th annual in-person community cat summits November 15, 2025 in Cincinnati and November 22, 2025 in Cleveland - mark your calendars!
We celebrate Paws with Claws and the students, staff, and partners who are working to make campus a safer place for all creatures—furry ones included.
Source University of Dayton
