LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) -- A feline Lawrence nursing home resident who shares the name of the patron saint of Ireland has been treated to an elaborate first birthday celebration -- on St. Patrick's Day.

The Lawrence Journal World (http://bit.ly/110Ku6b ) reports that the festivities included presents, party masks and a treasure hunt. Home health aide Helen Bennett even decorated cupcakes with cat ears and made catnip toys.

The playful black cat came to Brandon Woods at Alvamar last month with 87-year-old Frank Carlson of Lawrence.

Bennett says Patrick has taken up an informal role as a "cat therapist," available to cheer up residents 24 hours a day. In turn, residents entertain him with small fishing rod toys.

The nursing home's activities director says some residents don't bother leaving their rooms for dinner unless Patrick is around.