A pair of robotic cats are bring joy to people at Springfield Community Resource day centre in Pontllanfraith.
The fluffy and furry digital pets can react to stroking, hugging and even sounds.
Trudy Caswell, Senior Community Service Officer at the centre, said : “We found that when we introduced them, the people who are here in the centre got great joy from them, they interact with them and carry them around. They make sure they are talking to them so they bring conversation to the day centre. They thoroughly think that they are the family cats now.
She added: “The reactions to them have been absolutely fabulous. They like to get the brush out and brush them at the end of the day and there are people who like to sit and talk with them all day long.”
Since the cats, made by Joy For All, have been such a success, there are now plans to introduce robotic dogs to the centre.
Day centres like the one in Pontllanfraith are unable to look after real cats as the centres are closed at weekends, bank holidays and evenings.
The day centre also offers alive pet therapy, which includes various animals such as dogs, donkeys and owls being brought to the day centre.
Cllr Carl Cuss, cabinet member for social care and wellbeing, said: “These innovative robotic cats are a great addition, bringing comfort and joy to users of Springfield day centre in Pontllanfraith.
“Caerphilly County Borough Council realises the importance of bringing comfort and reassurance to vulnerable residents and this is helping us achieve that.”