Frontline battle cats: Meet Ukraine's surprising secret weapon | Frontline | Daily Mail

[@williamchow7533]

Anyone who has owned a cat knows how much comfort they can bring in difficult times. I wish these soldiers and their feline companions well.

[@BiGDuke6Actual]

Err, or has been owned by a cat..

[@RonValdes]

It's very sad

[@простоГалка-я1б]

​@@RonValdes do u steel respect Hitler?

[@LowKeyStatus]

On crip too

[@RynaxAlien]

Feed pets only vegan

[@arlenegojocco7518]

"Unlike people, they are not treacherous." Spot on!!!

[@googull4778]

I’ve had arguments with cats whether they get more food or let outside before I have to leave the house. But other than that, they’re great roommates.

[@adamtheownerofyourpassiona3879]

yeah but they WILL betray you if you dont play your cards right unlike his cat

[@shellz831]

I came to make THIS EXACT COMMENT. Truer words have never been spoken. Animals ARE BETTER than humans. ❤❤❤❤🥰🥰🥰😍😍😍😽😽😽

[@MissusAnon]

I beg to differ, my cat hides in the bush out back and jumps out with his paws in the air to bear-hug my leg when I am walking by 😂😂 extremely treacherous!

[@48forks]

lol cats are treacherous af

[@john_in_phoenix]

Anyone who has ever had a pet recognizes their psychological value. The story of soldiers going 160 kilometers to recover a cat left behind doesn't surprise me a bit. Slava Ukraine!

[@davidhollenshead4892]

Exactly, as they wouldn't leave their comrade behind, making them very different from the Russian Conscripts...

[@leozackdestron1574]

Elso averyone knows how much cats a afraid of loud sounds. It's torture to the cat being to the war.

[@paulinagabrys8874]

Ruscy nigdy nie wróciliby się po kolegę a co dopiero zwierzę

[@artmax1998]

@@davidhollenshead4892 noice copium

[@KityKatKiller]

​@@artmax1998 Shut it, Vatnik.

[@robertaylor9218]

“Battle cats” is a strong word for therapy pets. They are very important, and I’m glad the soldiers have them for support, and the animals have care.

[@petitio_principii]

Makes one picture soldiers being tackled down by dozens of cats, all hyper-aggressive like those cases that sometimes appear on "sadistically-funny" news of someone either advertising them for adoption or just having to handle an uncooperative one for some reason. The soldier is able to get rid and run, but little did he know he was about to fall on a concealed pit, full of iodine.

[@robertaylor9218]

@@petitio_principii honestly, when I heard “battle cats” I thought recon or remote artillery spotting. Like, well trained cats with cameras and GPS trackers sort of thing. But yours is funnier.

[@cameron5802]

Oh sweet Dusia. You're doing a blessing of a job.

[@zoecoote3746]

She is so beautiful.

[@jerushamaxwell281]

And how cute is little Matvii, with his arms stuck out sideways while being held by his soldier friend?

[@Centurion101B3C]

My platoon had adopted a young crow. Discipline was expressed in gathered worms to feed the crow and happily done by the soldiers. He repayed us by scouting for us.

[@crystalheart9]

Wonderful, the crow will repay you with protection.💖

[@cuervojones4889]

Corvids are pretty awesome. Very smart and very loyal.

[@hydramag_dragon1244]

That is beautiful. I'm wondering how do you communicate it's findings with it after it scouts, or do you just attach a small camera to it somehow?

[@Centurion101B3C]

@@hydramag_dragon1244 Well this was when camera's were about the size of a bazooka, so no, we did not resort to animal cruelty by having it lug that around. You can however read a lot from a crow and how it behaves. When he returns and keeps looking (pointing) into a certain direction while trying to get our attention, you know that he found something that may need looking into further. Do NOT expect a full sitrep or recrep from it.

[@crystalheart9]

@@Centurion101B3C Thank you for providing more information on your amazing crow scout. Animals can tell you a lot if you pay attention to them. Their senses are so much better than ours.

[@pr248]

All these cats should be immediately promoted to the rank of Colonel.

[@thefunpolice]

Colonel Purrnel.

[@ChickenMcThiccken]

they should have their own legion lol

[@jilledelweiss6445]

Catptain

[@mikeluke9685]

​@@ChickenMcThicckenForeign Military Cat 😺🪖 Legion

[@Born2Losenot2win]

oh like sgt reckless! idk about colonel but marines do make privates salute to animals that are considered marines XD

[@brealistic3542]

I'm glad these little animals can help the soldiers and the soldiers them. Its nice to see.

[@RynaxAlien]

Feed pets only vegan

[@aceytoja]

@@RynaxAlien schizo

[@dyslexicbatnam1350]

Yet the Russian soldiers are evil and don't exist.

[@JetFalcon710]

@@RynaxAlien Do not

[@babecat2000]

​@@RynaxAlienanimal abuser

[@samueltrusik3251]

A kitty snuggle a day keeps the demons away.

[@clivestainlesssteelwomble7665]

And the rats and mice ..and in trench and urban warfare disease has often proved a greater killer and attrition than enemy fire.

[@alexandrasmith7682]

Animals talk directly to the heart and soul ...... So many of those soldiers will desperately need that. Bless all of them.

[@dr.janitor2674]

What a lovely story under such terrible circumstances for cat and human.

[@RynaxAlien]

Feed pets only vegan

[@JetFalcon710]

@@RynaxAlien Do not do this

[@RynaxAlien]

@@JetFalcon710 Do it or keep no pets

[@JetFalcon710]

@@RynaxAlien If I get any pets, I'll do some _actual research_ on their dietary requirements instead of just feeding them lettuce leaves and hoping for the best

[@RynaxAlien]

@@JetFalcon710 Do but DO NOT cause suffering to farm animals

[@fuzzyfox6719]

I'm impressed by these soldiers. Listen to what they're saying obviously but look at the background. The trenches and hovels they're living in are clean and not cluttered. It shows discipline and hope against an adversary who was expected to just plow right over them. Compare that to videos from Russia and there's trash scattered about. It's why Ukraine is worth fighting for, cheering for and giving whatever we can for. They're a people of hope and not despair.

[@Ithinkthereforeiam-ph9nb]

Of course! They are Ukrainians❤… they are not Russians who live in dirt and poop and disease

[@colorbugoriginals4457]

I already thought highly of the Ukrainians, I married one :) But the amazing abilities and fortitude of them surviving and fighting this evil just blows me away like a Russian on a tank turret.

[@Ithinkthereforeiam-ph9nb]

@@colorbugoriginals4457 Слава Украине! Все будет Украина! Крым есть Украина!

[@Zotbot2329]

Why people think this is Ukraine's war mystifies me?...ukraine loses whichever way it goes..(it is a proper fascist dictatorship?, go ahead..elect a new government..this is prolly hoppy bidens plan too?).

[@prapanthebachelorette6803]

I agree ❤

[@richardgoebel226]

You have earned the cats trust if you can scratch its belly.

[@The_Venerate]

So true However, there are some breeds that are odd in that they prefer it!

[@tdbhmusic]

There are some cats that just don't like it, even after you've earned their trust. They are individuals with their own likes and purrrsonalities

[@The_Venerate]

@@tdbhmusic exactly!

[@jessethepersiankitty2377]

Indeed. It's the ultimate display of trust.

[@FieldBlaser]

My Tom cat buddy ask me to scratch his belly. But I’m certain it’s a trick. 😅

[@avrorazukr]

Які ви славні! Котики - це терапевти душі! ❤🙏🇺🇦

[@jillianstolling2602]

I don't cry often but this was so heart warming I couldn't stop cry. The fact that they are willing to do so much to save these animals speaks measures to their kindness, even in the harshest of climates. They prove over and over again why we much never wavier in our support for Ukrainian independence. I pray this ends soon, not just for the people but for every man and animal there.

[@elizavetamoje]

❤

[@LittleMakwa]

The soldier telling the story of how his buddy covered 160km to retrieve their cat got me. Fuel is precious in war but to them their little friend was worth it

[@lisar3944]

@@LittleMakwa yep, that one astonished me too. OK maybe astonished is not the right word as I'd do the same for my cat, but the fact that they succeeded in retrieving their furry friend is impressive.

[@maxdepasquale2351]

@@LittleMakwa True, it is incredible...

[@theamazingbatboy]

The scores of people I saw carrying their pets to safety at the start of the war was something that really marked me. The way animals, farm and domestic, feature so heavily in the coverage of Ukraine-that and their sense of humour are the things which have really endeared the Ukrainian people to me.

[@sabeaver9677]

Yes I am of Ukrainian descent & on Twitter I saw a man carrying out his bowl of goldfish - I will never forget the love of life my people showed under the worst circumstances.

[@jn8922]

But is that surprising? Do people or your culture not care about their animals?

[@DovahHouse]

Well maybe Zelenskyy should have thought about his people more before he started this war

[@sabeaver9677]

@@DovahHouse #ruZZia invaded Ukraine in 2022 & in 2014, you goddamn freak #SlavaUkraini 💙💛🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦💙💛

[@DovahHouse]

@@sabeaver9677 I feel sorry for anyone even these. Cats who are in the middle of this pathetic war

[@sgtreid7659]

Ask one of those cats just how hard it is to supervise and manage a unit and do all the hunting. During my deployments, cats were very important in keeping me grounded. They also reduce disease by deterring vermin. We also had a Fox on base. When she had a kit, we named him Rommel (the Desert Fox). I wish I could post pics.

[@janemiettinen5176]

Im an artist, never been in military (with my personality it’s like asking for chaos, destruction from within), but Id think war cats bring tiny slice of normalcy and de-stressing with them. Watching their antics is often better than tv, some cats have wicked sense of humor (I woke up with rally stripes, aka dragged poop, on the front my tee recently.. I swear I heard one of them laughing maniacally, as I showed it to my husband!), cant cuddle them and keep being amped up, mental downtime achieved in middle of hell. Line soldier might not feel they are that important to the mission or high brass, but will certainly know they are VIP to the animal. Cats are unbelievably loyal to their humans. Also, I agree with the supervisory role, cats are born to do it, they have that judgmental glare locked and loaded, always at the ready and Rommel is just about the most perfect name for battlefield fox!

[@dubuyajay9964]

You ever ate the animals they caught? They can catch lizards and snakes you know.

[@sgtreid7659]

@@dubuyajay9964 uhhhhh. No. The idea is that they -the cats- eat things that would eat our food. A problem was that US service personnel have a soft spot for the kitties, doggos, and even the desert puppers (foxes and jackals) that they’d feed them so much that they wouldn’t hunt. Efforts to prevent it were futile. Note. Earlier there was a much less enlightened approach by the military. I don’t like thinking about it.

[@RoseNZieg]

some studies had shown that well fed cats still kill as much animals as unfeeded ones if not more.

[@Unknownentityfeline]

​@@RoseNZiegI was just about to say the same thing. You beat me to it. I'm so glad you did, though. You're right, and I just want to support your comment and thank you for writing it. It's misguided to say that well-fed cats won't hunt. They might even be better at it because they have the energy to spare.

[@MISCSTUFFS]

2:55 damn behemoth is a glorious looking cat

[@pauls3204]

He’s a Main Coon , someone has lost him and will be very upset

[@generalpurpose772]

Behemoth has a majestic coat

[@kdw75]

Doubt that kitty ever gets cold. LOL

[@nobody7232]

My favorite, too...

[@KristinaUSA-x5n]

Norwegian Forest Cat?

[@SusanBullockUberGrams]

You can tell that kitty is loved and she is comfortable with her place there with you. Most will not allow their belly touched unless they are very comfortable with the caregiver. Seeing him petting her soft belly is warming to my soul, very loved indeed.

[@SandraNelson063]

These soldiers UNDERSTAND. Animals are FAMILY.

[@zenithproject817]

Its crazy how they tell the animals its okay not to be scared when they really are telling themselves that deep inside 😢❤

[@maxborde210]

Cats, they are lovely creatures. Thanks to the soldiers, who take care of the cats & each other!

[@RynaxAlien]

Feed pets only vegan

[@joshispro345]

@@RynaxAlien forcing carnivores to eat plants is horrible

[@davidhollenshead4892]

@@joshispro345 Except Cat Nip of course...

[@JetFalcon710]

@@RynaxAlien No

[@behemothokun]

@​RynaxAlien cats are obligate carnivores

[@lukaszmigacz5525]

That’s a great topic for PHD research - influence of trench cats on soldiers mental health

[@respectthefish4992]

exactly what I'm thinking

[@prapanthebachelorette6803]

I agree

[@squirrelsinjacket1804]

Pets typically have a positive effect on mental health, even in regular civilian life. I believe there's already been studies that correlate that.

[@damien678]

I'm not a soldier, but I am diagnosed with CPTSD (complex post-traumatic stress disorder) and my cats have made me far more functional than I was before. They like going on leashes outside, and if I'm able to take one with me in a cat bag, I'm far more comfortable wherever I go.

[@DovahHouse]

Ukrainian solders aren’t traumatized they are angry at their government

[@antonygoedhals6272]

Such a sad and beautiful thing these battle cats. How we treat the weak and scared is measure of our humanity. These men and their animals fill me with hope.

[@amberwright6918]

Thunder Company? Holy crap, she's a Thunder Cat!!

[@misguidedangel6550]

Wuts a thunder car?

[@maschinenorganismus]

@@misguidedangel6550 thunder thunder thunder CATS *guitarsolo

[@ryokkeno]

Cats are incredibly valuable working pets. They'll keep the vermin count down, provide some nice companionship, and can alert you to incoming without the wide area notifications of a dog. Anyone who's had a barn cat or just a reasonably outdoorsy cat knows what i'm talking about.

[@intothemystic3374]

Yes! I watch my cat while outdoors. She alerts me to EVERYTHING. Nothings gets by a cat.

[@AdamK5958]

My cats could pick up on a Fox outside in the garden, from inside the house in pitch darkness, great animals.

[@lisabishop6266]

My cat Lil Bit was my early warning system in my last apt 😂. Normally, he was on my bed most of the day, or my front windowsill. But when he would see my landlords truck, he immediately would hide under my bed! I would look out the window(s) and sure enough.. Funny thing is, my upstairs neighbor had a truck much louder, plus he owns a Harley, which he would park under the front window. Neither bothered my cat at all! I think my cat just knew my landlord was an a$$hole 😂😂😂

[@GarrisonFall]

Very interesting. I've only had dogs, very useful but not at all stealthy without much training. I've never heard of cats giving warnings - marvellous!

[@DovahHouse]

They aren’t meant for working this isn’t the 1800s

[@wacojones8062]

There was a Horse used by the Marines in Korea called Sergeant Reckless who carried ammunition to 75mm recoilless rifle positions by herself. She was brought to the US with the unit. There is a book about her. The phycological effects of helping to care for animals and their company cannot be overrated.

[@Cacowninja]

I heard of a bear that did a similar thing.

[@scallie6462]

There were officers who tried to say she couldn't board their ship to leave and the entire unit refused to leave without her, she was brought to the US and her offspring are still taken care of and it's a privilege to have that duty.

[@peasinourthyme5722]

Never heard of her, thank you for bringing her to my attention!

[@peasinourthyme5722]

@@Cacowninja Yes, Wojtek was his name.

[@chickensalad3535]

@@scallie6462The bond between human and animal can be unbreakable.

[@pamc9226]

Cats are a comfort and goodness knows these soldiers deserve comfort

[@Momcat_maggiefelinefan]

A purring cat can ease the soul of a stressed out military man and any other cat lover. It’s been scientifically documented numerous times. Purring cats have been proven to speed up the healing of broken bones too. These Ukrainian soldiers will definitely benefit from their furry companion! They should keep her as an indoor only kitty. She’ll be safer, healthier, and won’t get lost anymore. Great for humans and kitty both! Greetings from Canada! 🇨🇦🖖🏻🇨🇦

[@robinbeers6689]

Petting an animal also lowers blood pressure in humans.

[@jturtle5318]

The purring also promotes wound healing. Someone invented a pad that vibrates at the same frequency to use in hospitals. I used one on a diabetic foot wound and was very impressed.

[@Momcat_maggiefelinefan]

@@jturtle5318 Knew about the healing aspect of purring cats, but you’re the first person I’ve heard of who has experienced it. In a similar vein, my Tortie, Sophie, diagnose an abdominal tumour. She kept poking the area with her nose and made such a fuss about it that I went to see my G.P. Ended up losing half my small bowel because of a tennis ball sized tumour which her diagnostic skills detected. Felines are amazing diagnosticians! 🇨🇦🖖🏻🇨🇦

[@3rdandlong]

I am a kitty owner as well-one with Diabetes. My cat keeps me sane. We need each other. Sad that a defensless critter has to live in this circumstance of war. It should not have to be this way.

[@lockedinreason]

That was heart warming and heart breaking. As an ex 20 army veteran I understand a bit of what those guys are going through although I never had to experience the extraodinary intensity of their war. Without my cats over the years I'm not sure where I would be today. What they said in the video is so true; cats don't talk back (well, maybe a little bit lol), they are not judgemental and they are insanely loyal in their own way. I really like dogs too but at heart I'm a cat person ❤❤❤ 💙💛 love from 🦘🦘🦘

[@davidhollenshead4892]

Mrs. Inky understands...

[@AntonellaDeMartini-bn2qi]

Salve si qualunque animale! Ma il " conforto " lo avrei solo da un cane! I Catti sono dei rompiscatole!! Fidati! Ne ho 19 ,ex randagi! E solo 4 cani ex randagi! FAREI volentieri il cambio! 19 cani, e 4 gatti! Che paradiso!!!😂

[@scottfw7169]

@@AntonellaDeMartini-bn2qi Even so, is seems that you are the right person to care for them, or else they would not be with you. May both you and them be blessed.

[@jackalx2154]

"... Unlike humans, they are not treacherous and incapable of betrayal..."

[@giuseppeamato9159]

the civilization of a people is judged by how they treat animals (gandhi)

[@andrewphillips8341]

This is true. Just dont look to deep into Gandhi personal life. He was a monster.

[@RynaxAlien]

Feed pets only vegan

[@perthyren601]

​@@andrewphillips8341and your source are?

[@bjornh4664]

@@RynaxAlien That's mistreating them. They need the protein and nutrients. Don't project your ideology on carnivores.

[@yaltschuler]

The actual quote: "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."

[@FrecherLuchs]

Dusia, Behemoth ❤😊 Slawa Ukrajini 🇩🇪 🤝🇺🇦

[@marieslabbert6009]

Behemoth is a majestic cat!!! Some of those cats are really stunning, the dogs are just sweethearts as they always are.

[@Axelgre]

ГЕРОЯМ СЛАВА 💙💛

[@crystalheart9]

Bless the soldiers and the sweet cats. I hope they comfort each other.🥰😍

[@robertmaybeth3434]

Any man who loves cats can't be all bad. Sending out a patrol to find missing pets blows my mind.

[@maschinenorganismus]

Pets = Family members. In Russia not even human life is sacred.

[@JamieSommerfeldt]

Not much here either. But animals bring out the best in people.

[@namedrop721]

What about Hitler’s dogs? The delusion that loving an animal means you can’t be a trash human is psychotic

[@fadcdecarvalho8741]

Animals have special healing powers.

[@intothemystic3374]

I read that a cats purring can heal broken bones. Not sure if it's their own bones or that of humans. Either way, having a purring cat in your lap is comforting beyond measure.

[@zoecoote3746]

I worked as a vet nurse in my states biggest clinic. Cats only seemed to get a handful of illnesses vs dogs that had a far higher incidence of various cancers and different ailments akin to human ailments. I wondered if it was due to purring. Look it up it’s fascinating.

[@ghostphantom8453]

​@@zoecoote3746I think it might be due to dogs having been interbreed alot actually

[@The_Venerate]

​@@ghostphantom8453the "mutt" type breeds are quite hale and hearty; it's the "pure breeds" that suffer the most, as desired genetic traits are preserved along with the genetic medical conditions. Cats do have a number of natural resiliences, though, that make them very tough

[@Dius765RS]

2:58 - Behemoth Cat wins the awesome name award lol ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@petrokvartsianyi218]

Behemoth means Hippo in Ukrainian :)

[@margraveofgadsden8997]

I thought it was a reference to “The Master and Margarita,” a famous satire novel by Mikhail Bulgakov. There’s a talking cat named Behemoth that is one of the highlights of the story.

[@janemiettinen5176]

As an orange cat’s mom, I think calling the bunker cat Terminator is almost too fitting. Mine is called Onni (Finnish for bliss, happiness, luck), but I refer him as mayhem melon or indoor tornado. For obvious reasons, orange cat parents know.

[@teresahiggs4896]

@@janemiettinen5176I have a one toothed orange tomcat named “ Jack” short for “ Jackalope” because he’s such a strange and unique creature! Bless him, he does try to catch the bugs and ocassional mouse that gets in the house, but the best he can do wirh just one tooth, is slobber on the, a little! He lost his teeth , I was told when I adopted him, from chewing on things he shouldnt chew on.

[@88Tetsuko]

He's gorgeous!!❤❤❤

[@carsonm7292]

It's very reminiscent of ship's cats, a long naval tradition of keeping a cat on board as a mascot and a mouser. It used to be a really important position on the "crew" to keep mice out of food on old sailing ships, and the sailors could watch for when the cat's mood changed with the drop in air pressure that preceded a storm. And, of course, it was great for morale as a bonus. There are even famous ship's cats up to the first and second world wars. I hate for all these little critters to get caught up in this mess, but I'm glad they are able to comfort these brave soldiers.

[@arjovenzia]

My cat came to me as a stringy worm ridden kitten, kinda just moved in, a stray who needed help. She's getting old n fat now. Mission accomplished. No better healing lullaby than a gently purring cat.

[@mussydesign7933]

Animals are the best cure for PTSD 🙏❤

[@a0flj0]

"We even love our mosquitos more than Russians." - spot on.

[@barbarakauppi9915]

Yes, the rest of the civilized world feels quite the same. Even mosquitos merely strive to eat, and do not seek out to maim, rape, destroy, and/or annihilate anyone.

[@DanielHernandez-bx8tk]

Typical leftist brainwashed by the western media. You still think Russia is fighting war against the Ukraine right? Zelensky will meet the same fate as Saddam in the end haha

[@LewisDM]

That's an unbelievable quote don't you think. Imagine the history lessons we had as kids and the books we were made to read in 100 years time, talking about this conflict. I just hope Ukranians know we think the same.

[@coryearnest9464]

@@LewisDM I dont think of Ukranians or Russians as anything less than human. Both countries had countless men drafted to fight in a war they dont want to be in.

[@kjererrrt2381]

@@coryearnest9464 it's ok to think about ukes as such. unlike the russians they ain't created anything useful throughout their short history. they have always been someone's slaves.

[@akeleven]

People with pets are my kind of people

[@Zach-ku6eu]

Cats are better than guard dogs. They patrol all night, and let you know what's out there (quietly) without giving away your position!!

[@Zach-ku6eu]

Just saying as a combat veteran, dogs are hard to teach to just growl, not bark all the time. 🐱 don't like to give their position away on the hunt, they have a home spot, protect it from all intruders, and adapt to relocation quickly if you move. Vets, see a kitten pick it up and spoil it in the warmth of your jacket, share your food, that's all it takes. Teach it that the guys on perimeter watch have food. It'll patrol around the whole camp from one guard to the next.

[@syd2123]

Charlie's an angel! He's done so much and risked his own life to help these poor animals. Thank you Charlie! 👏

[@peggylee6086]

These soldiers are beyond kind . They and their cats are a wonderful example of the best of humans.

[@deanfirnatine7814]

I was on a disaster with my search dog team and we had many soldiers there assisting, some were combat veterans and the incident was obviously traumatizing to many of them, causing their PTSD from war to come to the surface, in our down time they gravitated right to our dogs who were better than any psychologist for them.

[@PORRRIDGE_GUN]

Dogs and cats are known to reduce stress and help people with trauma.

[@RynaxAlien]

Feed pets only vegan

[@masonadams4648]

@@RynaxAlien cring

[@Lord_RFAS]

@@RynaxAlien ?! You know cats and dogs are primary carnivores, right, gopnik?

[@SturgGaeming]

@@RynaxAlien Don't torture animals to death via protein deficiency.

[@Hallonyancat]

I wish I could have a cat where I live, nothing is better than coming home to someone who loves you unconditionally

[@stpstudios]

✌😺👍 🖤

[@Canthus13]

Cats and dogs make the best morale officers.

[@silh0vettes]

This is so heartwarming and probably the most wholesome video I've recently seen relating to the war in Ukraine.

[@mariondeason1032]

❤, may you be blessed 🙏, from South Africa

[@gregwatkins2525]

The battle cat Blends in to his camouflage quite well providing emotional support for their brothers and sisters is priceless

[@ImmuneToTrollHate]

There is no better medicine for mental health than the unconditional love of an animal I'm more of a dog person myself, but can appreciate an affectionate cat

[@dustyking8851]

These guys are great. They've been adopting cats & dogs all over the lines. ❤❤❤❤🇺🇦💕

[@dustintacohands1107]

Nature itself is on your side Ukraine don’t give up you’re in the right defending yourselves and YOUR land

[@Mauther]

Every time I deployed to Iraq, we had a base pet: either a cat or a dog. Upper command didn't like it, but it was cheapest and most effective way to improve morale. Never brought them into combat or on patrols. But it was a ay to show affection and receive affection that wasn't available anywhere else. We had one dude we all thought was borderline, but we'd find him sometimes back in his rack cuddled up with Manx baby talking while scratching behind her ears.

[@donzajane]

Such a refreshing documentary. Its easy to forget that animals are effected and also are a positive support for the teams of soldier's.

[@miriamweller812]

I love the part where the show them having put their Nazi emblems not only on themselves but the pets, too. Adolf loved dogs, too.

[@babecat2000]

​@@miriamweller812Russian clown

[@th5160]

My grandfather was in ww2 and stationed in Burma. I've heard stories that their unit had a pet tiger. Unfortunately he died of smokers lung before I could talk to him and he didn't talk about the war very much. Don't smoke, my family has had multiple casualties from it.

[@craigbenz4835]

How did the tiger die of smokers lung?

[@lothalan7049]

@@craigbenz4835 passive smoking

[@luu2532]

@@craigbenz4835 Not the tiger, they were talking about their grandfather

[@craigbenz4835]

@@luu2532 Oh. OK. Thankyou.🙄

[@TimpanistMoth_AyKayEll]

This deserves so many more views. As much as we joke about how many "cute animal" videos populate the internet, this one is quite meaningful.

[@heather-cz8yk]

Thank you for this positive story about war. I didn't know Ukraine loves animals so much...like Turkey. Thank you to this reporter, Richard Pendlebury. Of course, Brits love cats too, right Larry?

[@maxdepasquale2351]

You are right. I spent a few years in Istanbul; the amount of cats around, and how lots of people care for them, is amazing. They even have their own hospitals and ambulances. Still, I wish they did something to check their numbers with sterilization initiatives. There are lots of cats who die or spend a meager life as well.

[@1from31]

its so sad they lost their baby and had to give her up, but she is providing for her family and so many others now. so beautiful ❤

[@kiwihame]

Ukrainians have a special bond with pets. Just one more reason to passionately support Ukraine! 🇳🇿💙💛🇺🇦

[@Sashko_Dee]

@2:57 The guy is saying that the cat's name is "бегемот" (begemot) )which is the Ukrainian word for hippo and sounds almost exactly like "behemoth". The really trippy part is that etymologically speaking that is exactly where the Ukrainian word for hippo came from.

[@EugeneYunak]

@@moritamikamikara3879 the ґ is very rare, and the correct spelling in this word doesn’t use it. essentially it is spelled the same in russian and ukrainian, but sounds differently - the ukrainian g is much softer, closer to h. very few words use the harsh G sound represented by ґ.

[@demonpizza1834]

⁠@@moritamikamikara3879it’s not Russian, Ukrainian first appeared in 6th-7th century.

[@nikiTricoteuse]

Magnificent animals and a wonderful people. You can see by the way (and the places) they allow themselves to be petted that they have absolute trust in their people. Makes perfect sense to me too that talking to cats helps soldiers open up - here in Aotearoa/ New Zealand there was a successful reading recovery programme where children read to dogs. Apparently the reason it was so successful is that because animals are non judgemental it gave the children confidence to read aloud. I would imagine its much the same for people.

[@Sashazur]

There’s also a program in the US where kids read to shelter cats - it helps the cats get used to people so they can have a better chance of being adopted, and it helps the kids gain confidence with reading.

[@nikiTricoteuse]

@@Sashazur Oh, that's brilliant too! 😊

[@lunkis3233]

Animals heal our soul, calming us down and get unconditional love.

[@kjererrrt2381]

now the western and uke media are focusing on the emotional aspect of their lousy propaganda 😀😀😀😀 since teh facts are not in favor of uaf

[@JCJW101]

What a brilliant documentary, well done to all those involved and Slava Ukraine!

[@annehersey9895]

Caring for an animal keeps the soldiers human and helps their mental health. Animals love without judgement and love unconditionally!

[@TAKBOI-ye3fm]

What a lovley animal the cats eat mice and are fluffy cool mix Glory to AFU Glory to Ukraine 🇺🇦

[@enema6222]

Cats and dogs are nice around here, they let you forget some stress and problems of the war. But sadly two of the cats here are incredibly incompetent at catchibg mice and prefer to hunt dragoon flys.

[@jorr1334]

This is heartbreaking. After the war I hope they find internal peace. Perhaps working with animals will halp.

[@guyh.4553]

Dusia is 100% necessary for these troops. She helps them escape from some of the PTSD. ALL of the cats & dogs are necessary for these warriors. This is why I have 2 cats. Well done Ukraine soldiers! ❤❤❤

[@1chumley1]

I am a veteran and my cat is always there to show me how to live in the moment.

[@oneworld9071]

Gorgeous cat!!!!!!! The majority of people grossly underestimate not just the intelligence of cats, but also their capacity for love and emotional exchange with us. The key is, dumb as it sounds, talking to them as much as possible. Some may call it nothing more than response to a word or tone of voice, but they build a vocabulary. One other indicator of intelligence is their ability to know their individual identity; my feral-born brothers were Sammy and Nero and they absolutely understood their own as well as their sibling's name. The bond between them and me was pretty clear; they fired a shot across the bow at people with a hiss...... I always had to assure people "that is NOT about YOU!!!!; they're informing you that THEY own ME!!!!!" which was too true.

[@jasonscottjenkins]

I saw a video in the early days of the invasion where a soldier was trying to coax a cat named Moorchik out of danger as bullets were flying around. It did make to shelter but acted like nothing bad was happening. I wonder what happened to him

[@aemiliacarolphonetube9749]

Glad that those poor soldiers have beautiful cats.

[@timh6845]

These animals allow soldiers to find empathy again.

[@guynorth3277]

Actually I was living off the grid and the nearest two-track was 1000' feet away, and my cat would always notify me someone was coming in, giving me an extra minute or so. This was a great video thanks to those putting it together.

[@LoveOurEarth]

A sparkle of brightness….thank you for sharing this comforting story! ✨💕🐈

[@thefunpolice]

Animals offer great emotional support in a crisis. It's great seeing these cats generously giving their time in order to snuggle Ukrainian troops.

[@TAKBOI-ye3fm]

@@thefunpolice yep even that and there all Volunteers even got the fur squad

[@StormSongs7]

For the Hell those kitties lived in, they know they’re safe & loved now.

[@RTC1655]

Look at that wall poster, US. You can't let Ukraine down now.

[@philipjamesparsons]

A former work colleague was involved in the wars in Yugoslavia. He told me that he got hardened to seeing dead people on both sides. Even civilian deaths stopped bothering him. But, seeing dead and traumatised animals that in no way caused the war really brought home the folly of it all. They could never understand why their world had been turned upside down.

[@conephompany]

great video start to finish. an unexpected level of quality of content and production.

[@katk3439]

Как хочется, что бы война закончилась. И все эти ребята защитники и их животные вернулись домой целыми и невредимыми.

[@scottfw7169]

I hear ya. So many people around the world want that for the people and the animals.

[@cuddlycholla3438]

💙💛💪

[@RockandRollWoman]

🙏🙏🙏😽

[@jewlesw.2437]

amen😢

[@JamieSommerfeldt]

There is an organization that does that for American service people it’s called “ Paws of War” and they do their best to reunite soldiers with the animals they’ve saved once their deployment is over.

[@rhondabailey9238]

Beautiful hearts...the people and their pets. I'd rather be in pain with Ukraine than to be like the heartless people who don't care. Slava Ukraine * HEROYAM SLAVA❣🖤💙💛

[@dhanu_4539]

The russians have kitties too.

[@jorr1334]

​@@dhanu_4539 so what? Ukraine did not go to them.

[@dhanu_4539]

@@jorr1334 but the cats did. They are working just as hard catching mice for the russian soldiers.

[@Zyzyx442]

@@dhanu_4539 LMAO

[@Roger-go6jc]

Beautifully spoken. You put into words what I feel so deeply about. Heroyam Slava.

[@Heyiya-if]

BATTLE CAT!! ❤ battling peacefully as only an animal can.

[@Kraut_the_Parrot]

woah... crazy how the cat blends in perfectly with the Ukrainian camo pattern

[@smokeykitty6023]

As the owner of 2 cats (1 who had been severely abused) I can completely understand the value of these pets to these units. I know it must be frightening for them to be around explosions but I trained mine to be calm during thunderstorms or loud vehicles. I just started saying. "Boom boom outside". I know it sounds stupid but they soon connected the dots and got it. Then I petted them as usual and went about our normal business. This year on July 4th I did the same with firecrackers. They both ended up sitting in the windows and watching the fireworks. Just make sure everyone knows the magic word u pick and it may help them. Hope so... Peace and love to all of you fighting. I'm in the states so please know that there are people all over the world praying for you. ❤

[@lockedinreason]

Dusia is absolutely beautiful! Both in looks and her manner 🥰

[@soupisgood44]

Glory to our heroes . Goodness will always prevail 💙💛

[@evilfingers4302]

I'm lovin the AFU's cutest furry 4 legged soldiers to bring solace to the Heroes of Ukraine 👍

[@ChelseaChfy-ex1po]

I’m sure this battle cat will help them win in no time

[@slicklandy7819]

@@ChelseaChfy-ex1po seems then russia needed cats when they ran away from Kyiv

[@slicklandy7819]

@@GoodGuyDevin "taken'?? Russia had it surrounded 2 years ago. Did they not take it then? did they run away? OMG

[@REV-1]

@@slicklandy7819Dude these guys are losing.

[@slicklandy7819]

@@REV-1 russia is losing???? how, Russia have 200 000 foreigners they got to fight for them as well. Okay most thought they would be security behind the lines, but still....

[@daydreambeliever6603]

Dusia’s camo matches the soldiers very well.

[@Joker-DarkKnight]

We had a cat here at the Fire station..Someone just dropped it off at are front door during the night and left, and yeah she just became are little fire buddy at the station. She helped Alot of the EMT guys who went to certain calls that where tough to feel with.

[@donfluso9042]

thanks for the report, I love cats more than anything else 😽

[@Sad_Bumper_Sticker]

Poland remembers about and supports Ukraine as strongly as ever.

[@a_lot5163]

Very reminiscent of ww1 trench warfare...the parallels are terrible knowing the cost of that war.

[@milferdjones2573]

Yep cats and the mouser breed of dog very useful in helping control the swarms of rats often fed from the dead.

[@suzieque4438]

Thank you for your service, Dusia. 🇺🇦 You are a blessing.

[@kikaykimy]

1:56 "unlike people, they are not treacherous and they are incapable of betrayal" 100%!!!!

[@brendaraudebaugh6246]

They're reasons soldiers connect with animals. Just like he said, he'd trust an animal before people.

[@maxdepasquale2351]

it reminds me of a quote attributed to Mark Twain: "If you pick up a starving dog and make him prosperous he will not bite you. This is the principal difference between a dog and man.”

[@BestOpinionHaver]

Beautiful story. Really pulls at the heart strings and puts mist in your eyes.

[@KatsCats2619]

Beautiful story animals are amazing Slava Ukraini 🇺🇦💙💛🌻

[@niccalee]

Even in the darkest places and times, a fluffy little angel will come to say, "I love you."

[@omarra6781]

This is so sweet. I was in the military, but never in a combat area. Even so, I know plenty of people who were and I can see how a pet would be of great comfort.