Since the installation of the new airlock connecting the Happy Paws Happy Hearts (HPHH) Blue Room to the Ten Lives adoption centre, something special has been happening at Ten Lives.

What began as a practical way to safely welcome cats into the session space has quickly become one of the most beloved parts of our Hobart programs, creating new opportunities for connection, learning and enrichment for both participants and cats.

Over the past quarter, participants have been delighted to welcome a handful of shelter cats as the Blue Room's (HPHH session room) unofficial "foster cats". Rather than spending all of their time in a pen, these cats have been invited into sessions where they can safely roam, explore, play, relax and, most importantly, connect with people.

For HPHH participants, the arrival of a new Blue Room cat is always met with excitement. Together, they help prepare the space, setting up cosy bedding, enrichment activities and welcoming environments purposefully designed for each cat. Here participants build on their knowledge of cat welfare and behaviour to create unique spaces to help them feel comfortable and confident. Often these activities bring to light how as a group, participants can apply the same skills and techniques in their interactions with people, building interpersonal and social skills in group settings or when meeting new people.

As the weeks unfold, participants deepen their understanding about each cat's unique personality, celebrating their quirks and becoming invested in their journey towards finding a home.

The first Blue Room cat was Maxxy, a seven-year-old long-haired gentleman who quickly became a favourite among participants. As he settled into sessions, participants created a whiteboard display featuring his photo and personality traits to help potential adopters get to know him. When asked to describe Maxxy, participant Rohan summed it up perfectly:

"He's one of the gang."

Not long after Maxxy's stay in the Blue Room, Kevin arrived. His stay was short and sweet as after only a few hours of being in the bluer room, Kevin met his new family and was adopted. However, just as they did for Kevin, participants had thoughtfully prepared the room with care, creating a welcoming space for Kevin to enjoy his short stay.

What these Blue Room cats have brought to sessions is much more than closer human-animal interactions, but a tangible and lasting impact for both people and paws.

Participants are not simply meeting shelter cats for a brief interaction; they are actively helping to welcome them into the space, preparing enrichment, learning their personalities and investing genuine care in their wellbeing.

At HPHH, animals have a unique way of bringing people together. They create natural opportunities for conversation and connection, providing participants with a shared interest that helps strengthen communication, teamwork and group dynamics. As participants work together to understand and support each cat's individual needs, they take on shared responsibilities and develop practical animal care skills. Along the way, the cats also provide comfort, companionship and a meaningful focus that helps participants build confidence and connection with others.

As participants watch these cats grow in confidence and, ultimately, find loving homes, they experience the powerful feeling of knowing they have played a small but meaningful role in that journey. Being part of a cat's story from shelter to adoption helps participants develop a sense of purpose, contribution and connection, while reinforcing that their actions can make a real difference in the lives of others.

Since the airlock was installed, the Blue Room has become much more than a session space. It has become a place where shelter cats can temporarily experience the comforts of a home-like environment and where participants can experience the joy that comes from helping an animal on its journey.

For every Blue Room cat who walks through the airlock, there is the possibility of finding a new friend, building confidence and taking one step closer to a forever home.

And for every participant, there is the opportunity to make a real difference, one paw at a time.