We’ve all heard of the superstition about black cats and their taboo (especially around Halloween), but these are two dark-furred felines that you won’t want to avoid! The two kitties known as “the Quad cats” have earned themselves a renowned title here at JMU, and they have grown to represent one of the many traditions at our school. Informally dubbed with the names Dolly and Jimmy (how appropriate!), the quad cats make their home near Burruss and Miller halls, but can be seen gallivanting anywhere along the brick-lined sidewalks of the Quad.
(Image courtsey of Port & Main Magazine)
Both Quad cats are a bit on the skittish side seeing as they are constantly around the hustle and bustle of a college campus, but they can sense a cat-lover when they see one! With a cautious and gentle approach, a student may get the chance to briefly pet one of these elusive cats, thus checking off another possible accomplishment on a personalized JMU bucket list. There are some occasions, however, where once the Quad cat takes a liking to you, he/she won’t take no for an answer! Once the Quad has settled down and the young dorm-dwellers have nestled in for the night, the Quad cats are more likely to be seen and have even had the reputation of following someone who gives them attention…too bad pets aren’t allowed in dorms!
But fear not for these felines because they do actually have people looking out for them on campus. Both Quad cats are neutered and are very adapted to living in the wild (as wild as JMU’s campus can get at least). Although Harrisonburg can have some harsh winter nights, animals have an instinctual ability to find suitable food and shelter in order to survive. But, if you’re still feeling nervous for our beloved campus cats, Harrison hall has a room where donations to the quad cats can be dropped off. This could include anything from old dorm blankets and towels to some Meow-Mix–any donation is better than none!
Whether you’re a cat person or not, the quad cats are greatly loved by the JMU community and have found their home among us. As per the classic JMU saying, the quad cats have certainly made their mark on Madison. So if you ever knead a pick-mew-up on a bad day, then don’t be kitten yourself and go pet a purrfectly cute quad cat right meow to make it that much better!!