Can you really count on a cat to babysit? While there’s no final answer, this particular feline’s reaction to a baby might make you think twice about it.
In a video shared by Rumble Viral, a baby is seen lying next to a chunky tabby cat. Everything seems calm until the baby stretches out and accidentally swats the cat. The cat, clearly taken aback, tries to gently bat away the tiny hands before quickly jumping up to get a better look at the baby.
The cat’s expression is priceless. It looks utterly baffled, almost as if it’s trying to figure out what this small human is and how to make it stop wiggling around.
This short, one-minute clip has been watched over 4 million times since its release. Viewers are entertained by what they imagine is going on in the cat’s mind. The cat seems unsure whether it should snuggle up, scoot away, or just wait for someone to take the baby away. Unlike dogs, which have a natural pack mentality and are often enthusiastic about caring for little ones, cats are much more self-sufficient and not as eager to play caretaker.
Despite this, the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry suggests that growing up with pets has its benefits for children. Pets offer a steady source of social interaction and encourage kids to be more physically active, as babies and children are often eager to play with them. Pets also help kids develop a connection with nature and learn how to treat other living beings with respect.
This act highlights critical gaps in our support systems for people in crisis and animal welfare. Urge authorities to provide those in crisis with the help they need to prevent animal abuse!
Hopefully, this baby and cat will form a bond as they both grow. With time, the cat might come to realize that this tiny “human puppy” will eventually help fulfill its needs—whether it’s giving scratches, serving up food, or shining a laser pointer for some fun. And who knows? Maybe by now, the two have become the best of friends—assuming, of course, the cat wasn’t too offended by the baby’s accidental swat at the end of the video!