Melodie Paiement-Charland, from Canada, is an international student at the Shanghai Theatre Academy (STA). Beyond her Chinese studies, she has made caring for campus cats part of her life — a story of love, kindness, and responsibility.

Melodie's connection with the cats at STA began when she first arrived on campus. A natural animal lover, she observed that while many of the cats were cherished by faculty and students,  some were thin and frail, requiring care and help.

Touched by their plight, Melodie started bringing cat food to feed them during her free time. The cats, sensing her kindness, gradually approached the Canadian student who alwayswore a gentle kind smile.

Melodie realized that simply feeding stray cats wouldn't address the root of their challenges, as uncontrolled breeding only worsens their living conditions. She took her efforts a step further, regularly bringing the cats to the pet hospital for sterilization and health checks.

The process was challenging. Some cats were feral and wary, making them difficult to approach, while others had some health issues requiring meticulous care. Yet Melodie never wavered. Through patience and persistence, she gradually earned their trust, with one cat after another being spayed or neutered. This not only helped curb uncontrolled breeding of stray cats but also reduced the distress and health risks associated with heat cycles.

When she encountered sick cats, she stepped in without hesitation. Once, she discovered a weak, ill kitten, immediately took it to the pet hospital, and cared for it until it fully recovered. She even gave the cats names, such as "Shangshang" and "Xixi", now well-known campus cats at STA. Melodie's kindness has transcended occasional feeding, evolving into sustained, systematic guardianship.

To shelter the cats from wind and rain, Melodie, together with fellow animal-loving students, built sturdy and warm shelters on campus. They gathered wooden boards, waterproof fabric, and soft pads, making each shelter safe and comfortable. When winter arrived, they added blankets to keep the cats warm.

Their acts of kindness not only brought warmth to the cats but also influenced people around them. More students began paying attention to the campus cats, joining in feeding them or donating supplies, showing the harmonious coexistence between people and animals.

Reflecting on her experience, Melodie said that caring for cats has become a significant part of her student life, bringing her a different kind of joy and growth. The cats have been a source of strength, encouraging her to keep going, especially during low moments. Her bond with them has helped her rediscover a sense of purpose and reminded her of who she truly is: someone with empathy, a sense of responsibility, and a willingness to care for other living beings even in difficult times.

Source: Official WeChat account of International Cooperation Office, Shanghai Theatre Academy (ID: "gh_50f8dfa98cb2")