A robotic cat named Marmalade is proving popular with residents at a Northumberland care home.

The animatronic cat was unveiled at Riverside House Care Home in Morpeth.

Richard Dobinson, activities coordinator at Riverside House, said: “Our residents have always cherished the calming influence of animals. Now, with Marmalade, we’re merging cutting-edge technology with the therapeutic benefits of pet therapy. It’s an exciting development that we believe will bring immeasurable joy and comfort to our residents. And the fact it doesn’t cost anything for cat food is an added bonus!”

Marmalade is an animatronic cat that looks, feels and sounds like a real cat, with soft fur, soothing purrs and pleasant meows.

Designed to provide comfort to those living with dementia, Marmalade responds to petting, hugging and motion much like a real-life cat would thanks to a network of sensors and its VibaPurr technology which provides sound and vibration to replicate a real cat’s purr.

The robotic feline allows Riverside’s residents to flexibly enjoy elements of pet therapy, which has been proven to provide wellbeing benefits and calm those with dementia.

You can see Marmalade in action here.