Do Cats Miss Us When We Leave the House?

[@danielareiner2420]

When I was 16 years old, I found my cat at about 2 days old (with his umbilical cord) inside of a mailbox bin, abandoned and crying. I took him home with me and saved him. The day he opened his eyes and was able to see me, he just starred at me for about 3 minutes straight, almost as if I was his world. 10 years later, I'm 26, and he and I are inseparable. We have a strong bond that I feel no one I know understands. I an his mother to him and he is my son. He has moved with me everywhere, he's been through multiple people with me, and he will continue to until he passes away.

[@lepusistlich6930]

"he just starred at me for about 3 minutes straight, almost as if I was his world" Because you ARE his world. He had nothing, not even his mom. You gave him everything: love, safety, family, home. You are his private guardian angel

[@jcat1507]

You are an excellent cat owner and person! I've also aged out multiple pet cats mostly around 19-21 years old. I believe they lived so long because I always protected them by keeping them indoors.

[@bebop54]

love your comment & understand exactly what you mean ...

[@voteZDLR]

That's amazing. I really hope whoever abandoned him like that at the very least is abandoned themselves one day. How can you do that to a kitten?

[@Lolita91_1]

How can a human being be capable of such a heartless act? I will never understand . Animals are so helpless and depend on us . You’d think since we are the most intelligent species we would know better . But it just goes to show how evil we can become

[@TwoAwesomePeopleTAP]

I have literally had times when one of our cats thought everyone had left the house and started crying/caterwauling because he couldn’t find anybody, so loudly it echoed through our little house. Then when I would call out enough for him to follow my voice upstairs, he would hurry up and jump on the bed meowing nonstop like “Do you know how SCARED I was?!”

[@jaquicx9500]

Poor baby! I bet itd love one of those videocameras where you can chat with your cat💕

[@vanillaplanifoliae]

my cat does this too! especially when my sister (his favorite) goes back to college

[@shiver222]

My beloved cat Fireball did exactly this whenever my husband or I left the house. It was very sweet, but we felt bad leaving him!

[@calimero600]

I have the same experience with my cats! We are three people here and even when one of us went to bed "suddenly" they started crying and searching the person unless she/he called them. They have each other, but they prefer that the "pack" is together. Whoever said that cats prefer to be single never had cats!! 😉

[@DonyaLane]

I have a cat who does the EXACT same thing! His lament is HEARTBREAKING. He was raised as a bottle baby (abandoned day-1 and raised by me round the clock), so what Jackson said about human attachments makes a lot of sense in this case. He's also extremely attached to his little Beanie Baby toy that was placed in his little basket when he was a kitten. I gave it to him, so he'd have "someone" his size to cuddle with. 14 yrs later, and he STILL carries that thing around with him, and cries when he can't find it. It's insanely CUTE!

[@Chuck59ish]

5 years ago I had a major heart attack, a triple by pass with 4 stoppages and was in the hospital for 34 days. Since I come home, my cats have checked up on my various times a day and night and they sleep with me at night. I'm 70 years and Disabled, I'm also a Type 2 Diabetic, Insulin dependent for the last 27 years.

[@d.o.m.i.]

wishing lots of health to you ♡ and I can see your cats are taking good care of you

[@angelwings7930]

They know you need them. ❤️. They’ll keep you going too.

[@rowlandbuck2703]

My cat stayed with me In bed for 3 strait days after my car accident. This was a cat that wants out at 6:30am on the dot every morning. But she would leave the bedroom to go eat drink and use the litter box, then come right back into my bedroom for 3 straight days until I finally moved

[@BangtaiL_WitcH]

My cat has saved my life multiple times and I have saved hers also, they are wise and very special for those who see past the human ego. Your story is beautiful take care 🍀 Remember folks get cat food ASAP..

[@martinapi88]

Sorry to hear that, I wish you well ❤️

[@steviebyers3161]

My cat is always super cuddly and gives me a “meowing lecture” every time I come back from work 😂

[@EEsYouTubeChanel]

I never thought it was a lecture, but she did used to fill me in on what happened while I was away... Then she would flop and rub her whole body on the rug, and flop stretching her whole body out, and then rubbing her face on it and flop again. She was so good at greeting me when I came home. I miss her so much everyday. Cancer always has to snuffle out the brightest flames :(

[@_space.pony_]

We’ve had 2 cats that if we were gone a long time she would “tell us all about it”- a meowing lecture

[@Lovetildeath18]

The black maine coon on my picture always sit in the dark, whem i come home and wait for a friendly cuddle. My orange male cat come when im home and tell me from his stressed day, when he was asleep😂

[@MajorOctofuss]

They’re trying to ground you 😂

[@MagickP00dle]

My cat was raised by raccoons. He didn't even know how to hiss until we went to the vet and he did it on instinct. Then he scared himself by hissing, and hissed at him own hissing. I was super surprised and told the vet "....He's never hissed before" and she laughed and said "yeah, I can tell". It was so goofy.

[@pattykweram2391]

That's adorable and hilarious.

[@janetwestwood9194]

🐈 👀👍

[@samberg1477]

That gave me a good laugh!! 😂😂😂 “he hissed at his own hissing because it scared him” 🤣🤣🤣

[@shiny2423]

I had one cat that never purred.

[@clayzingo1653]

Guess the vet brings out the cat instincts even in cats that were not raised by other cats.

[@ImallamaToo]

We have an almost 20 year old furbaby we adopted as a rescue when she was about 5 weeks old. She bonded immediately with our son (who was in 1st grade at the time). Fast forward many years - she absolutely missed him when he went to college. He was home on the weekends, and she was at the door waiting for him. She loves all of us, and will come looking for me if I leave a room for too long, but he is her "person". She even laid on his ankle when he broke it, like she was trying to heal and comfort him. She's really been a blessing these past 20 years, and is a true member of our family. ❤️

[@memyselfandi7782]

AWWWWW I LOVE THAT!

[@Lokey21]

🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@cherylr8988]

funny I had one that decided her hooman was my son as soon as he could sit up and pull her hair. He was an infant and she didnt care that he was pulling at her ears or falling over onto her, she loved him.

[@nhupham9829]

I think she did want to heal him. If I'm not mistaken, cat purr can aid bone growth and all.

[@bg147]

Very sweet. Cats are very good judges of character. Your son has a gentle soul.

[@pankhuriverma9495]

My female cat has a 'special meow' for when my husband goes out of the house...it's a meow she does only when she misses him or is looking for him, she is very attached to him. She even goes to different rooms looking for him at every corner meowing her 'special meow'.

[@nicoley2133]

my hubby has said my girl does that when I leave the house to go to work. She'll spend 9 hours calling out for me and greets me at the door when I come home. Somehow she hears me walking up the stairs (we live in a third story apartment so lots of people come and go on those stairs) and will wait for me to come through the door then as I go sit down she'll jump in my lap and love on me and groom me. We have 3 cats but she's mine. One is my hubby's and the other is our daughter's cat and they all act differently to each of us.

[@marcuslambert2162]

Man i tell you Jackson im 57 yrs old and thought i knew a thing or 2 about cats but after watching a bunch of youre vids i realize just how ignorant i was about cats and i truly hope anyone that has a cat or is thinking about gettiñg a cat watches youre vids and educates themselves and i want to thank you for the lessons

[@StephFrandsen]

@@marcuslambert2162 I learned the same thing too. I have a troubled kitty with an eating disorder. His advice is truly spot on.

[@thedovahqueen4845]

Dude, same. Both of my cats are foster fails who I raised from about 4-5 weeks old. My female cat is obsessed with my husband and always has been. She used to sleep on him when he was trying to do his college work. Now she has this loud meow for him and when he touches her she has a completely different reaction vs when I pet her. Its crazy. My male cat is a maine coon and is the sweetest and loves everyone in the house. Now Im about to foster fail again with my current foster kitten and he is the sweetest little muffin.

[@НаталяГоловенкіна-н8ъ]

help the animals of Ukraine. 146th day of the war: shipping over 20 tons of fodder, helping animals evacuated from Kramatorsk, supporting ungulates in Kharkiv. UAnimals.

[@lourdessimon7813]

You might think I'm nuts, or not, but I feel like if I sit with him and explain where I'm going and how long it might take to be away, he seems much more relaxed and happy to see me when I get back. He seems to understand and accept my comings and goings that way

[@Buddhattude]

I tell piscis everything and he most definitely understands and it is much more at ease

[@awakenspirit8317]

You're not alone

[@ttruhcheva]

Thats so cute🥹

[@capital_L283]

He may not know what the words mean but his heart does❤

[@redbrexit2912]

I have a pet headlice. He's feels like he's in a safe space when I explain to him that we will go out and he will be cold or wet. I can no longer feel his tremor. And he told me he's a trans head lice and he often flies a Ukraine flag and take a knee for BLM

[@HoshPak]

You will only ever understand the emotions of a cat missing their owner if you've been through that experience personally. I was living with my parents until I finished studying and found a job. I've been with our cat for 13 years at that point and moving out was the hardest thing I've ever done tho this point as I couldn't take her with me to the city because she's an outside cat. The first year was absolutely soul crushing. My parents told me my cat was restless, always going outside sitting in front of the door or on the wall just... Waiting... Looking into the distance. 3 years later, she recognizes the sound of my car and whenever I came to visit she would greet me as soon as I left it, making noise, rolling on the floor receiving belly rubs, purring like mad. When I sit in the garden she occasionally jumps onto my lap to sleep and groom herself. You simply don't get it unless you are a pet owner yourself.

[@caspenbee]

I had a similar experience. When I went to college my cat would ask to come into the house just to check my room, and leave when I wasn't there. Broke my heart to pieces. She still does this sometimes and it's been 5 years. Luckily I can go home to see her (and, you know, my parents!) frequently.

[@notabigdealthough8616]

Pets owning is a a sad way of coping that you can never have kids

[@notabigdealthough8616]

@Hulda's Journey • not my fault no one wants to reporduce with u

[@MelissaThompson432]

@@notabigdealthough8616 ah, that's projection. People who relate well to other humans generally relate well to animals; the obverse also holds true. People who don't relate to animals don't relate to humans. And if your way of reducing another person to a manageable stature is to impugn their physical attractiveness, 1) you don't relate well to other humans and 2) you feel ugly. Both of which are things you might benefit from spending time on before you attack other people.

[@AndaraBledin]

@@notabigdealthough8616 What a sad and lonely life you must lead to lash out at strangers this way. I truly hope you find the help that you seem to so desperately need.

[@Jenymo88]

When my mom passed away I kept her cat and all he did was wonder around the house meowing looking for her. He went from her being around 24/7 365 for 3 years to nothing. Although I was in the house a large portion of the time, he still wasn't satisfied. It's been a year now and he has gotten much better but I know he still misses her.

[@a.b.2405]

😢 that is so sweet. I’m sorry for your loss.

[@peperudi102]

My mum passed away and two weeks later, our cat stopped eating, started dripping water from her mouth and in no time, was diagnosed with cancer. She passed away 11 months later in my arms. There were three of us at least in our household, and our cat used to be mostly with me. Yet, she could not overcome my mum's departure and followed her.

[@Carlaburgess]

@@peperudi102 I am so sorry for your losses; my heart goes out to you. I hope you are recovering. As an aside, since I don't know when your mum and cat passed, I just want to mention that it struck me as odd your cat was diagnosed with cancer and wondered if that is what your mum passed from as well? Forgive me if I'm out of bounds on this: but if so, please consider checking to see if there is some sort of environmental cause in your environment. Please take care of yourself.

[@stephenclarke3803]

I completely understand my boy cat baby was the same way when my mom passed away cuz she brought him into the house but now we're best friends

[@avwel3827]

😭😭

[@mandyylolo]

I was in the hospital for almost 2 months 2 years ago , while I was gone my parents said my cat would walk around crying…when I came home she wouldn’t leave my side, when I took a shower, she would wait at the door..,it was almost like she was making sure I was not going to leave again and checking if i was ok. It was very sweet

[@linabasilisk1955]

Back in March, I had to be in the hospital for a week. I missed my cat so much. I went to military school, I used to work in law enforcement before my accident, but I got teary-eyed missing him. There is no doubt he missed me. He purred so much when I came home and rode around on my lap most of the time (I'm wheelchair bound). He also threw himself on his back and begged for tummy rubs. I have a surgery coming up and I feel so bad about having to leave him. I've got someone he likes to look after him, but he has made it clear that I am his person.

[@mandyylolo]

@@linabasilisk1955 ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@radiopal0911]

I can totally relate. When my wife came home from the hospital... Joy wouldn't leave the room.

almost cried :(

[@SongbirdRanch2005]

It acts just like my cat! Hope you are well now.

[@AngelDRose]

I can tell you with 100% certainty that cats miss you. When my husband had to go away for a week for a funeral, my cat would sit and stare out the window, waiting, all day. When someone came to the door he’d run to see who it was, when it wasn’t his daddy he’d go straight back to the window. He did this the whole week my husband was gone.

[@expotemkin]

My poor old boy Puff did this when I went for training for a job for a month. My ex took pictures of him stuffed in a shoe rack by the front door waiting for me.

[@DubKc]

Please no I don't want to cry 😢

[@igot7problemsbutyougotnojams]

My cat does this with me

[@peterclarke7240]

"I will not cry. You cannot make me." 🥺

[@TigerPrawn_]

You can tell us with 100% certainty that your cat missed its human.

[@Brigada91RealBriggy]

Definitely, at least mine does. I can tell by his behaviour. He sees and hears me, when I put on my shoes and immediately starts to be all cuddly and starts talking to me. He is making it so hard for me to go. What a love bug. One time, he put his favourite mouse toy into one of my shoes and I think, this is such a cute gesture and a definite sign of him not wanting me to leave. He also meows a lot when I'm out the door. But after a few minutes, he calms down and just goes to sleep. Sometimes, I find him under my blanket when I get home. Such a cutie. But to be fair, I also miss him and I'm happy to see him, when I'm back home.

[@fractalelf7760]

That was touching 😢

[@vickibazter3446]

He really does miss and love you! ❤️

[@katerina6417]

My cat also knows when I put my shoes on! And then checks my husband's feet to see if has his shoes on 🤭 And if we both are leaving she starts meowing and being cute

[@alina_swag]

The toy part breaks my heart ❤ like take my most precious thing, just don't leave

[@PotatoesAreCool_]

My cat does the exact same thing! I feel better knowing he's not the only one hahaha

[@jenwylie4093]

I had a cat who belonged to a neighbour, she kept running away until they finally gave up and told me to keep her. She was such a velcro cat. My dad used to tell me that she would just cry when I left for work. There was usually someone home with her, but she was still upset when I left. I loved that cat so much!

[@kimminy2362]

My cat used to live next door. He lives with us now, for the same reason.

[@High.on.Life_DnB]

That's not kidnapping, that's catnapping. But honestly, a cat should be able to choose their own caretaker as there are so many people who treat their pets in a bad way, I'm not surprised some cats don't want to be with their original owner. When I got my cat as a kitten I knew we were going to be friends because he was the only kitten of the 3 that showed genuine interest in me and seemed to enjoy being on my shoulder so much that I just fell in love instantly :) too bad he grew into such an enormous cat, cause I can't carry him around on my shoulder anymore, the monster weighs over 8kg, but that's normal for a maine coon :)

[@chlorinelori1064]

This is so wrong, I hope you payed them back for all the vet visits and spaying until the point you took it from them. I let my cat out and she is very happy but cats are known to go where they get food. My cat would eat 20 times a day if I let her and be like those obese cats very soon, if someone was feeding my cat and letting her in their house I would be livid… thankfully I have normal neighbors. Instead of taking someone’s raised and vaccinated cat you should go to animal shelter and get another cat without a home. It’s your ego you like not the cat, because you managed to feed the cat into liking you more…

[@TheCsaf243]

@@chlorinelori1064 How do you know they even took the cat to the vet or it was even vaccinated? Honestly if they cared they'd have kept her inside if she was straying that often to the neighbors and they didn't want her going there. Too many cats are just left out to fend for themselves and if they're lucky enough to find someone that will take care of them good for them. We feed the cats in our neighborhood all the time as do the rest of the neighbors. No one seems to know who they belong to but one things for sure they don't go hungry and get petted a lot. Also there's warm fuzzy covered kitty beds on the porch so if they want to sleep there they can.

[@charlotteclapham3467]

I adopted my oldest cat, Andy, in 2020 when he was 8. When I did, the shelter told me he would not be able to live in a home with other cats. After a breakup and a move, when I would come home from work or school, he would scream at me for a bit when I got home and was so desperate for affection. I decided, based on his behavior around other cats, to try to get him a friend. I brought home 8 month old Ollie. Within 5 days they were cuddling and grooming each other, and are now the best of pals, and Andy does greet me when I come home but no longer screams at me. I’m so happy that he has a brother now 💕

[@_space.pony_]

They absolutely do. If I go upstairs and my cat loses track of me, she meows loudly and in a sad way! I’ll yell “I’m up here!” And she comes running ❤

[@mgene8093]

Adorable

[@CousinCreepy]

Whenever my cat comes in if it's raining she calls out to me with a loud and very distinct meow and I have to call out "here I am Pepper" and she responds with a tone that definitely sounds like a question -"Where?" until she can see me. She's just as concerned for me being caught in the rain as I am for her. Wonderful little beings!

[@Frost-ob7ck]

My cat is mostly black and in the dark it can be hard to see him so sometimes I'll say "where are you" or "I can't see you" and he'll meow so I can find him.

[@CousinCreepy]

@@Frost-ob7ck lovely! I've been thinking lately about how the Marvel character Groot only says "I am Groot" and Rocket always understands what he's saying - our little friends only say "meow" and we seem to understand exactly what they're saying from their tone and inflection too. Anyway, have a great day Frost and thanks for responding!

[@jacquelynpowell7964]

,why do you let your cat outside unattended?

[@CousinCreepy]

@@jacquelynpowell7964 I don't live in the city. She has a cat door and comes and goes as she likes. She stays on the property, chases butterflies and grasshoppers and doesn't let me out of her sight. I know she appreciates your concern though, thanks.

[@donnabeach8480]

@@CousinCreepy my cats have a "dog" door they use to go out into our fenced back yard during the day. If people let their dogs go out into the yard, why wouldn't I let my cat? Never quite understood the idea of cats only solely living in the house never to leave. Be smart about it of course.

[@dav1djac0b]

After I lost my place in the fires, I had left my cat, a bengal, at my parents, as i was figuring things out, 200+ miles away bc I still worked during the week and had nowhere else to leave him. When I returned that weekend to see him, i woke up from a nap to see him “spooning” my leg as he slept. As if he was holding on. I’d never seen a cat sleep like that.

[@korinakorinakorina]

That's adorable. He definitely missed you.

[@kessiawright1710]

One of my cats does the leg spooning thing. The other one tried to take over my pillow and will wake me up trying to move me over lol.

[@DominikGuzowski]

@@kessiawright1710 well i damn well hope you give them the pillow!

[@kessiawright1710]

@@DominikGuzowski They have their own pillows.

[@Lillisssss]

100% yes. My sitter told me that my rescue ran around searching for me the whole week when I was away. The moment I came home she jumped into my arms and was so incredibly happy ❤

[@angelwings7930]

❤️❤️❤️

[@theyclosechannelsthatspeak428]

😭😭

[@corathekat1898]

When my Mom was home w/ Hospice at the end of her life, her cat was glued to her 24/7. I put a litter box, food/water close by. She layed with her until she drew her last breath. So loyal. ❤

[@diamondeyes1559]

I worked in a nursing home and we had a resident rescue. We didnt always know when they would pass away however when the cat would go to the room and stay we knew why he was there and didnt leave until the resident passed

[@irene_f.]

Beautiful, and sad. I'm sorry for your loss and your cat's loss. 💜

[@Rvictorbravo]

Same with my wife who declined quickly. Last 4 days she stayed with her. I was holding my wife’s hand when she passed. Her cat then looked at me curled up in my lap, still looking at her lady

[@nisamskreuzer5891]

Yes, that happened at a nursing home where i worked too! ​@@diamondeyes1559

[@Jenifer_R_]

My cat is almost always waiting for me at the garage door when I get home. I don't think she's there waiting, but she knows what the sound of the car means, and it's lovely to see her. She basically nods at me, then wanders off.

[@stevenanthony8952]

Hello Jennifer how are you doing today

[@dancroitoru736]

My cat always waits for me at the apartment door. And, than, always I tell her :"honey, i m home". We do love each other✌️👍😘🙏

[@ginnybusini288]

They miss you and love ❤️ when you're home!

[@jaimievale-ws6vd]

I have 3 as soon as they hear my car pull up from work they line up in front of the door I love them

[@subawuba]

@@stevenanthony8952 bro thought he was in the dms 🤦🏼‍♂️

[@AolaniSilva]

yes, they do miss us. we went on a two-week trip a few years ago. my cat was left home alone, though my daughter who didn't live with us stopped by daily to feed her, pet her and clean her box. when we arrived home after the trip, we were surprised at our cat's reaction. she scream-cried, then would heave and repeat for two weeks and would not leave our side. we'll never leave her alone again. we felt so horrible!

[@Freshbrood]

I went on vacation for 11 days and hired a petsitter friend for my girl. When I came back she did non stop zoomies for about 20 minutes then melted into my lap purring. They definitely miss us.

[@monica4309]

I don’t know why people leave pets on their own on holiday - so sad.

[@skadi84]

@@monica4309 especially for cats it can be difficult to move to different places. One of my cats gets motion sick, one (whom we call "America" 'cus his "FREEEDOM") gets anxious when he gets into his pet carrier and even trying to put his harness to go out for walks is stressful for him even with treats, and he hates being held, lol, don't even think about any type of restraint for him, I have another cat who hates traveling, she traveled her entire life and hates it, so we have at home vet visits for them and we have people living at my house when we travel so they're not completely alone and get more human interaction than just feeding and peace out.

[@SerenaHe-z3k]

I'm glad I have two cats, they are brothers. They have each other when I'm away from home so it's not just one cat alone the whole time.

[@paisteplayer1040]

@@monica4309 We have 4 cats.. Its not possible to take them most places when we go away.

[@12Prophet]

Despite the memes, cats are extremely loving and attentive to their human pets. I had a female Siamese, raised her from birth and I adored her. We'd always spend time together and staying in the room with me was always something she would do. Well, I had gone to a different state for close to a month, and I'd skype my family back home (they were watching the cats) and my Siamese would always go up to the camera when I was on these video calls. She was even more close when I finally came back home. Sadly she passed away earlier this year. When I returned from burying her, I just lied down on the bed to try and process the loss. Another cat I had brought in a couple weeks earlier came over and just laid herself along my neck like a scarf. And we just stayed there for at least an hour... Point of this is that yes, animals feel everything that you feel. We just speak different vocal languages.

[@jacquelynpowell7964]

Absolutely!

[@loveearth7011]

I’m soooo sorry for your loss. I had the “best cat ever!” for 17 years. I cried for a week straight. She went through everything with me too. I’m glad your other cat helped you grieve. Cats Rule!!!

[@clareb6652]

The day I lost my first cat I went to stay over at a friend’s house. Her cat woke me up in the morning absolutely identical to the way my cat used to wake me by sitting on my chest and purring ❤ overwhelmed ❤

[@Aethereality]

Sorry about your loss!

[@robertkubin7173]

My cat greets me at the door 90% of the time with her belly up in the air. I understand this is her way of saying hello I’m glad to see you. 😊

[@aulzhoefer]

My little guy too

[@patrycjaoledzka5922]

The other day before I left the office I called my partner who was at home to discuss something and he put me on the speaker. Apparently out cat rushed down from the window as soon as she heard my voice and was looking around trying to identify where my voice comes from. She was vocalizing and trying to find me for another 20 minutes until I walked in through the door and she ran right to me 🥰

[@katiedoucet4748]

Lol my kitty does this too! I always hear her talking on the other end.

[@sylviekins]

@notfiveo my little girl has to be brushed as soon as I come home- she is very attached❤️

[@Angie-ux3xr]

“Velcro cat.” Perfect way to describe my girl, at least most days. I swear she misses me sometimes when I’m in my home office too long without her. Thanks for the vid. Sweet reminder that cats have unique personalities and needs.

[@michelleportch6227]

Isn’t it the bestie of animals? He was my familiar. I cannot even describe life without him and yet, now he’s gone.

[@goldenretrievermom7945]

Yep. My cats are clingy but not at the same time. They want to cling on me when the other one is away :D

[@haga1320]

I used to get really frustrated with my cats because I felt like they didn’t love me like my dogs did. One day when I was out and about, I happened to see a book about cat behavior (I wish I could remember the name) and just grabbed it out of curiosity. It ended up being a complete game changer for me. I learned the recognize the subtle changes in body language that cats have and realized that my cats avoided me because I was treating them like dogs. I adjusted my behavior and home to better accommodate my cats and within a few weeks our relationship changed: the came over more often for cuddles, their cute little tails would raise up and gently curl (like a question mark) whenever I approached, they started meeting me at the door when I came home, etc. Even became more tolerant of nail clippings and going to the vet. I wish I could remember the name of the book that completely changed my perspective on cats, because I would highly recommend it. If you ever find the time to pick up a book about Feline behavior (ideally written by a professional behavioralist) you really should!

[@OkraCola]

Excellent! I was (am?) a dog person and erroneously treated my cats the same until I learned...such books should be required reading for anyone who gets a cat.

[@nikkis7375]

Love that! That’s what Jackson’s KZbin page did for me. I’m so glad that when I decided to get kittens that I binge watched so many of his videos, or I would have NO IDEA !

[@dennischiapello3879]

Jackson's point about the sort of socialization an animal has had will have a big effect on what "sort" of cat you will be dealing with. I've gotten the impression over the years that cats avoid the person who beckons and head for person who ignores them. It seems to be the same with fearful dogs. The lady next door asked me to visit her occasionally so that her newly adopted chihuahua could overcome its fearfulness of men. I would visit, but pretty much ignore the dog, who was curious but guarded. On the third visit, he suddenly jumped into my lap!

[@RoseForEverafter]

That’s very true, and it’s because for many animals, eye contact is seen as a sign of dominance and potential aggression! Cats and really any animal with anxiety feel more comfortable when things are on their terms. Letting them make the first move at their own pace will show them you’re trustworthy and not going to push their boundaries.

[@a.katherinesuetterlin3028]

@@RoseForEverafter That is one reason why extroverts drive me bonkers. The extroverts I have met tend to make the assumption that animals in general will respond exactly as humans do, or at least they think animals "should," just because we're supposedly the "superior" species. Well sorry to burst ppl's bubbles, but we're not all that. Just ask any crow who has interacted with arrogant, cruel humans. Those birds remember, and hold years-long grudges. They remember who is naughty or nice. Dogs and cats are likely no different, in their own way.

[@huntercoleherr]

I once read a statement that really stuck with me. Paraphrasing: Don't trust someone who hates cats. Cats are animals that enforce boundaries, and anyone uncomfortable with that is probably someone you don't want to be associated closely with.

[@resilienceinc.6220]

"Looking at cat's through dog-colored glasses..," I love that phrase. Also appreciate the history lesson. Thx, Jackson.

[@MsValeriaHeart]

No. Cats are not dogs and don’t want to be.

[@pcproffy]

The thing is dogs live in packs with a social hierarchy. Cats are more solitary. Dogs have more developed brains for social bonding.

[@aliss8559]

My roommate says that when I'm gone at work, my boy Simba just sleeps or lays around sadly all day. But when he hears my car pull in front of the house, even while I'm still in my car, he sprints downstairs and sits eagerly by the front door waiting for me to come in. He must know the sound of my car. My heart melted when she told me that. Then he follows me everywhere and wants snuggles nonstop. He is an abyssinian and such a sweetheart. love him so so much.

[@christinebicanic751]

My three cats do the same thing. Not so much when I leave,but their welcome home is so heartwarming that I know they miss me.

[@Tweeza57]

You are blessed 😇

[@melodymorris6170]

I adopted a 2 1/2 yr. old female cat. She seemed lonely even though I was home all day. She is really laid back & only plays a little. A week later, I went back to the shelter & got her a 6 month old kitten to keep her company. Best thing that I did. They are best buds & keep me on my toes & laughing.

[@stevenanthony8952]

Hello how are you doing today

[@Brigtzen]

@@stevenanthony8952 How about you?

[@DeathOfAnExecutionerr]

Our cat was the same, we adopted her when she was like 6 months old but as she got older she seemed like the life in her eyes faded away.. and then we got our other cat now, Ever since he's been in our home she's definitely a lot more lively which is nice ( although she does still prefer to sit somewhere or look out the window xD )

[@TigerPrawn_]

I would love another cat for my cat but money…

[@rd30000]

Thats really sweet. I have a pair of brother cats now. Ill never get another cat that doesnt have a sibling with them. Theyre super cute together.

[@haingis]

without even watching the video I'd say yes. the heart wrenching meow they let out when they see you for the first time in a long time is different.

[@c80lan]

My cat who was a stray and who adopted us is a “velcro” cat - love that term. Most of the time when we’re out, when we come back, she’s sitting by the door waiting for us. When we’re home, if we’re upstairs and she’s downstairs or visa versa, after a few minutes she’ll come looking for her humans.

[@NMN_CP]

Mine too! Velcro cat! Rarely sleeping in a different room! Waiting by the door! Previously stray! Follows me around even in the bathroom.

[@teekotrain6845]

My cat always has to be in the same room and I love it so much. Nice to know they love you like you love them. Can't say that for most humans!

[@rachellindsey8660]

Same. Two years she wouldn't let me touch her. Now if I sit she is in my lap.

[@spamlogs2701]

It uses u for food. Ur being played

[@SnowDeerling]

Mine too! She’s my little shadow!

[@Rank.Roundup]

I’m so glad you mentioned getting another cat. I have cameras in my house, and sure enough, my three cats pile into a big cuddle puddle and sleep together all day. Then I can see them start to get more alert, go to the window, etc. when it’s near time for me to get home. Also, funny you should mention bottle babies because I’m fostering six right now, and yes, I’m sleep deprived!

[@ameliasyifa4332]

Are you sure he's not you? 🤣 sounds like you fit with all of the description 🤣🤣

[@memyselfandi7782]

As you should be lol

[@Microwaveymaye]

I adopted my cat when she was only 7 weeks old and now she's nearly 13. Every time I come back from work I always find her favourite toy sitting in the middle of my room, and even when I'm in the shower she sits on the other side of the door waiting for me. She's truly my best friend in the whole world.

[@MarkWNelson]

Jackson, I just simply love you for being a cat advocate, and being a general awesome human being... The world needs more people like you!

[@haydentravis3348]

Ya we do. There needs to be way more love and understanding in this world.

[@lisaspikes4291]

I actually got my cat for my dog. My dog was crying and whining when I went to work. He had separation anxiety. I thought that a cat might take his mind off his anxiety. They’d either be best friends, or at least the cat would keep him occupied. Even if he didn’t like her. Luckily, they did like each other! And I fell in love with the cat also! She’s my baby girl! 🥰

[@jordanindigo8411]

my german shepard is the same way! he loves cats so much but not other dogs and he has separation anxiety really bad. now we have two cats and he’s obsessed with them

[@Bunslazy]

My cat doesn’t do anything when I’m leaving the house but when I’m back he comes running towards me and cuddles me like crazy He’s a British shorthair btw :)

[@laurajoshi6474]

Same our cat is very independent which makes it easy cus my husband and I both work long hours outside the home. But when I come home on my lunch break every afternoon all he does is follow me around same thing when we come home after a long day .

[@hesterrezelman3511]

An unexpectant hospitalization for me caused Skelm(scoundrel) to have a separation anxiety spell for about two weeks and she totally ignored me when I came home. She refused to eat or drink her normal diet food. It took her about two weeks to get over this trauma and since then she follows me everywhere I go. Only the slightest sign out of the ordinary like buying milk and bread reminds her of the unpleasant time she had.

[@SummerofKittyLove]

Got back from vacation (friend came over a few times to check in) and one of my two cats non stop cried at the top of his lungs when I walked in the door, and they both clung like a bur for a few days. So yes, they miss their mommas definitely

[@shirleyandrews1152]

So cute. My cat hiss at me for 3 days. She’s a Tortie! I expected no more 😻😂🤣

[@antoinevandamme6506]

Probably your friend gave them not as much attention as you do. That is what they miss. Cats attach to the place they are in. The most they miss is food on a regular basis. I had cats and dogs in my life. When you would leave a dog behind, chances are they can not find food for themself. Cats will allways find food. Fun fact: when cats are born and they see no humans in the first six weeks after they are been born they will become wild. Dogs dont. When you move house with a cat and you do not keep them inside for a week or six, they will go back to there old house.

[@trystanmentzer873]

I think it also depends a little on how good a job the person who watches them does. When I had my dad watch my cats during a vacation I came home and it was obvious they missed me. The next time I went on vacation I was neighbors with my best friend. Her daughter and 2 step daughters did an amazing job. When I got home it lwas like the cats didn't even care at all. It kinda hurt my feelings.

[@thekalli23]

We went out of town for a weekend, with my MIL checking in on our cat. He was so mad when we got home, wouldn't greet us and dead eye stares for days. Few months later we did a 10 day trip overseas and he howled when we got home, even cuddled my husband who he hates!

[@davitto01]

The anime "My Roommate Is A Cat" is a must for any cat owner. The way they show the separation between a humans interpretation of a cats actions and what the cat is actually thinking is brilliant! Thoroughly enjoyed it.

[@pwndpp]

Thank you kind stranger for the suggestion. You made a cat and a stranger happy. 😊😸

[@davitto01]

@@pwndpp I'm glad you enjoyed it. Heh

[@josho.9530]

About to start watching. Thanks for the rec!

[@karenrosenberg646]

It is my favorite anime of all! One because of the POV shift between the MC and the cat and two because it highlights important issues of mental wellbeing. Besides that it is a relaxing anime with humor and just enough angst to get the plot going and evolve. Worth watching!

[@sqprr]

Ooh! I'll have to watch that!

[@SnowDeerling]

We accidentally started a tradition of getting a kitten when the previous cat was about 5-7 years old. It brought new life into the older cats and soon they were doing everything together. It definitely makes a difference having another cat at home so they always have someone. There’s an additional bonus in helping each other through grief. As the oldest cats would pass away, the whole family would be there for each other. That was in my family home. My husband and I had one cat and she passed away last year. It was the first time I’d experienced a cat loss without another cat in the house. It made it so hard. We started wondering how soon is too soon to get another cat. We definitely weren’t replacing her but we missed having a cat around. We just got another one by chance and it’s brought kitty joy back in our lives. We’ll wait a little bit then get another kitty. I never want a cat less home again.

[@CatGirlAlena]

My cat hates other cats.

[@Lokey21]

@@CatGirlAlena I don’t think my cat will allow another to live inside our home 😔 He has a dog sister that he loves already and whenever I go to feed the stray cats… He runs to get his dog sister, like “Don’t let her bring anybody in here!!!” 😂😂😂

[@Isabella66Gracen]

Yes, kitty joy. Beautiful.

[@karolinamajewska5995]

Hey we were thinking of doing that too. 😸 Our cat is 5 now and she's definately not lonely when we're out, she's food-oriented type of cat. And that is the problem, I wouldn't stop worrying if she let the other cat to eat his portion or not... She stole some dry food from my sister's cat when they visited us, even though our cat has only 4 teeth left and we feed her with wet food only, around 6 times a day... Maybe we should help her finding a different purpose of life.

[@hopecarson120]

I adopted a kitten just as we were sent to work from home because of Covid. Cats are born with a covid gene, and unfortunately, Hannah (and her littermates, adopted by another family) had it. She and my resident cat, Khan, were just beginning to like each other when I had to emergently put her down. I had her for 72 days. Three weeks later, I adopted Loki; Khan was depressed and they were trying to bring us back to the office. Loki is a healthy, happy lapcat! And loves his big brother. We don't give them enough credit for their feelings.

[@sirens990]

We adopted our cat Jade at the end of March of this year and we went on a four day trip in May. The foster home she was in before generously offered to babysit her while we were away. After we picked her up and went home, she slept with us under the blankets all day. I think it’s safe to say she really missed us 😅

[@sirens990]

@Tochi Nwokeukwu Yes, name twins! Your baby is so cute!!

[@marciamar-sha_remember2838]

Woody was originally my husbands cat, they use to walk around together in the neighborhood. But one day Woody's buddy was gone, I came home , set down, shed a tear. Woody knew! He licked my tears but he stopped eating. I thought he was dyeing. He was missing his "cat daddy" as much as I was. He did come out of it and began eating again We have both learned to get through this hard time. RIP John Thanks Jackson, yes cats do miss us.

[@sophiethepegasus]

I am so sorry for your loss. I wish you nothing but the best

[@mspeir]

Funny thing about the imprinting. I had a cat and two prairie dogs. I got a kitten to keep the older cat company. The kitten and prairie dogs formed such a strong bond that when I had to rehome the kitten to my sister, she told me he acted like a prairie dog for weeks. He *was* a prairie dog in his mind! 🤣

[@elizabethclaiborne6461]

I brought home the cat I fell in love with at the shelter - and his lifetime cage mate. They’re family, strongly bonded. I figured it’d be traumatic to separate them. It was the right choice, they look out for each other. And for me, we’re a pack.

[@stevenhenry2940]

Hello Elizabeth how are you doing

[@mrsdevine161]

Yes! I have 4 rescue kitty's and I feel like the most important person in the world when I get home. It's like having my own cheerleading squad when I get home. I don't consider them pet's and I never like the word owner either; they're my family, my kid's. Shout out to All humans who adopt and don't shop! Feed the Feral they need love too!

[@Annaleyza-rp7of]

When I was a kid my parents adopted a shelter cat. She wasn't really affectionate, cuddly or child friendly at all for a long time. We gave her the space she needed and accepted her boundaries. Then we went on a family vacation. When we arrived back home she waited for us at the door and greeted us with a lot of purring and cuddling and I could tell that she accepted us as her family and was glad we were back home. She remained to be not the cuddliest cat but this was a moment I will cherish forever. ❤️

[@jhepadidaymaypamoa5172]

My cat used to have terrible separation anxiety when I first fostered him. It got much better thanks to advice and many steps I took. However he still pees on my bed when I'm not home for a few days, even though I ALWAYS have a catsitter there to care for him. Despite all of this I ended up adopting him, as he is THE sweetest cat I've ever met. I have learnt to accept the insecurities of my sadly traumatised but very loved furrball =) (For background, he was left for dead and saved by gentle people who couldn't keep him. Even when he was only skin and bones, eye still damaged from feline herpes, he immediately felt at home and is the sweetest cat I've ever met)

[@mr.e1026]

I have a separation anxiety problem with my cat, Spectre. I set up a camera one time to see what he does, and he will wail on for about 20 minutes once I leave the house. The longer I am gone, the longer he will sit on my chest, very pleased but in the meantime, he looks out the window, cries some more, paces around the door, and even when he decides to just lay down, he has a look on his face like someone shot his dog. Spectre and I have been through a lot in his 2 years of life already. But I learned that, as Jackson mentioned, I adopted a little kitten for him, and he looked at her and hissed twice at her, but after that, everything was cool again. In fact, it was so cool, this kitten (her name is Mina, or "Little Butt") has attempted to nurse off Spectre as if he is her mommy. AND Spectre just lets her do it!! They groom each other, play together, lay together, eat together, and Mina will even sit next to him while I am gone and cuddle up to him. He has gotten a lot better about when I leave, now.

[@sanrihoe777]

Thanks for this video! My partner and I got our kitten during the height of quarantine so we spent everyday with him for a year and a half. In 2021, I started a 9-5 in-person job that meant I was gone for more than 8 hours a day. My partner started working fulltime as well. I felt horrible leaving our cat home alone. I noticed his appetite decreased and that when I'd get home, he would be waiting by the window for my return. I knew it was time to get a second cat as I feared our boy was suffering from loneliness. Cut to now, we have another kitten who has bonded with our first cat. His appetite came back and their sleep schedule is in sync with our work schedule. They are both so happy. I'm so glad I made the decision to have two cats

[@monkaeyes3417]

My cat at my dads house definitely misses me. Last time I visited, I went outside to see him, he popped out of the hedge and started chirping constantly over and over. He rarely chirps more than once, but here he wouldn’t stop until he reached me. Up, on my lap in an instant.

[@Phalanx443]

Just recently I was in the hospital for some minor eye surgery (in one day, out the next). My male cat, Mickey, greeted me at the door (as he always does) and hasn't left my side since. He "supervises" me as I take my meds, and curles up near my head and purrs me to sleep. I am feeling much better, and Mick is always there to escort me to wherever I need to go in the house. I couldn't ask for a better companion if I tried!

[@Scottsteaux63]

My Benny watches me when I take my meds.

[@diana_borcea]

I film my cat when I am out and I can see him searching and calling for me, so yes, absolutely! It also depends on how dependent the cat is, I think. Working from home, you spend time 24/7 with them, so it can be felt as a shock when you suddenly leave home for 8 hours.

[@stevenhenry2940]

Hello Diana how are you doing today

[@diana_borcea]

Enjoying a nice vacation in Greece, which I highly recommend.

[@stevenhenry2940]

@@diana_borcea Oh that’s okay

[@stevenhenry2940]

@@diana_borcea Where are you from? I’m from Dallas Texas

[@Bookluver29]

Our oldest cat was traumatised as a kitten, his mother and siblings were found in a mostly abandoned building and taken to the RSPCA, but he had hidden and stayed quiet and was left on his own for several days until the RSPCA came back out and collected him. The RSPCA were very cautious about sending him home with someone as while he wasn't aggressive, he would hiss and tremble when held. They hadn't even heard him purr. I had already fallen in love with his profile image online and when I went to meet him, he didn't hiss when I held him. We got him home and he immediately hid behind the dryer and hissed at me when I got close. I knew at that moment that it was a crux point, what we did next would be the difference between a cat that was confident enough to live happily in his environment, or a cat who was going to run off the first chance he got. I fished him out from behind the dryer and just held him until he calmed, then I put him back down on the ground, gave him a few moments to get his bearings and assess the situation, start having a look around. Then I picked him up again, held him until he was calm and put him back down again. We called it hugs therapy, and it was to get him used to the idea that he was in a safe space - I was not going to hurt him, and he didn't need to entrench himself into tiny spaces to feel safe. Within 24hrs we heard him purr for the first time. After a couple of days he had explored every room in the house, after a couple of weeks he was much more confident in his safety. He was still fairly anxiously attached, especially in those first few months. He wanted to be around me constantly and his favourite activity was curling up near me while I read a book, even more so when I would read out loud. It wasn't until we got other pets that I realised how little he liked to play and how much of his development had been delayed by the trauma he had experienced. We got a puppy when he was nearly 2 years old, and he still hates her, but he figured out fairly quickly that he could get her into trouble by batting clean socks into her part of the house and that she cannot jump up high like he can. The real change to his behaviour and what has brought about a relaxing in his anxious attachment was when we got our youngest cat. We tried to introduce her slowly, but these things can be unpredictable. The dog ended up taking on a very maternal role for our youngest cat, and our oldest watched from a distance for a while. What I found intriguing was that even though the dog was the one taking on the majority of play time, if the kitten was in distress, the other cat would step in to help. He would head over, check out the situation and if there was a solution needed, he would demonstrate and watch her try to figure it out - or hit her over the head until she got it, which was his solution to her poor bathroom etiquette - one situation in particular was amazing to watch. We had a cat tree up against a window and bookshelf, there was a thick, wooden curtain rail that ran across the top of the window. The dog and kitten had been playing and the kitten got a little overwhelmed and bolted up the cat tree and found herself clinging precariously to the curtain rail and very unsure of how to get down. She cried for help and her big foster brother wandered over, assessed the situation and very slowly and deliberately jumped up the tiers of the cat tree, up onto the top of the bookshelf, looked at her and then began the reverse journey, showing her how to solve the problem. Like the brilliant problem solver she is (we know now she has ADHD, it honestly explains a lot) she decided to take the shortcut down of just plummeting back onto the cat tree - nearly on top of him. He whacked her in the head and stormed off, but after that he seemed to warm up to her in increments. The more time they spent together, the more he started to play and meet her at different stages of feline development. They're not nap-buddied close, but he will defend her if she gets in trouble and will make sure she's following the house rules and check on her if she's not well. He also runs boot camp in the summer to keep them both fit and active - coaxing her into active play in the front yard daily during the warm summer months. It's helped him to have another cat around, he is much more confident in himself and he is less single-human focused. He likes to spend time with other people he has come to know over several visits and is starting to even seek out attention from a few of them. He will no longer automatically run away from roomfuls of people, but he will assess how loud and disruptive it is and decide whether he wants to deal with that drama. Long comment, I know - I just wanted to add at the end here, hugs therapy worked for us, but it was an instinctive reaction on my part to his individual needs in the moment. Whether or not it was the best course of action, I don't know, so I'm not presenting it as 'do this, it's totally better than blah, blah, blah' he just needed love, security and reassurance that being petted and held wasn't going to hurt him or force him into an uncomfortable situation. Likewise, our youngest cat used to get so overwhelmed and over sensitised as a kitten that the only way to help her calm down was to completely wrap her up in a towel and just hold her gently in place for about fifteen minutes. She's learned now to seek out a dark, quiet place to be by herself when she's overwhelmed, but when she was little she needed that extra help to be still, quiet and allow herself to be calm. We would hold her steady until she relaxed and started purring, then slowly open up the towel and let her go when she was ready. It's not for every cat, but it worked for her.

[@HappilyAnonymousGirl]

That may have been a long read, but it didn’t feel like one to me. I like how well you explained everything. I felt like I was picturing everything in my head as I was reading. Also, I find your story helpful and I think there’s a lot that can be learned from it. Like you said, not all cats are going to respond the same way to “hug therapy” and that’s something worth noting, as well as allowing the older cat to teach the younger cat the rules of the house. These aren’t things I really think of, since I don’t have a cat (yet), but they’re definitely worth keeping in mind for the future, just in case. Thanks for sharing your story. I enjoyed reading it and hope more people do so they can learn something from it, too. God bless

[@fraujones2000]

I think you’re blessed as a “cat whisperer “ I bet you have great discernment!!👼

[@americanpatriot7247]

Booklover29 - That was a long read.... but well written and you shared some good ideas. Thank you for sharing; well worth the read. Your babies went to the right family, obviously. Blessings on you and your 2 and 4 legged family.

[@evie0623]

I would never let a dog chase a kitten and I wouldn’t regard that as playing. To run as high up as the curtain pole indicates one terrified kitten.

[@mntgardener9246]

Thanks for taking the time to write all this out. Loved your story and insight.

[@Scottsteaux63]

We have three cats: Andy is fifteen years old, Benny is six, and Angel is three. Back in October I had to go for surgery to have a shunt implanted (brain to bladder tube to drain excess fluid). I was only gone overnight, but when I came home at lunchtime the next day, all three of them came running to the door to make sure I was all right. Benny stayed at my side the rest of the day.

[@hezmydaddyo2722]

I have had cats my entire life - even in a college dorm 😜. I adopted a street urchin 2 years ago who is unbelievably attached. When I come home she’s peeking under the door window curtain waiting for me. She’s needy for attention and I’m ok with that. I’m happy she’s happy❣️

[@GingerTheSpoiledCat]

Must be a great moment everytime you come home 🥰🥰😻

[@mattstroker3742]

When my foster daughter left home and found a house quite a bit away from me, one female cat that liked her even more than kitty liked me, definitely missed my foster daughter. That was so noticeable. Incredible. Always lying in her old bed, looking into her room, then towards me and saying: "mriauw?" and looking into her room again, only to *sigh* and look around again. So sad.... The other female kitty didn't seem to care as much. I think. A bit, sure, but wasn't distraught by it. But the other... Oh, she missed her so much.

[@tanyawieczorek6603]

Why didn't she take that cat with her?

[@IgorEngelen1974]

I always say goodbye before leaving the house. Most of the time she will be waiting by the door when I come back because she heard me. It's very rare that she's still sleeping. After a day at work or long absence I always go to the living room with her first for cuddles, a short talk and only then switch my clothes. I feel like she deserves that attention.

[@LisaNirell]

Thanks Jackson. Your passion for creating healthy human-cat connections is infectious.

[@cygnustsp]

I had a cat who couldn’t care less about me but loved my wife. Every day I knew she’d be home from work in sixty seconds because the cat would meow and jump to the window. I started observing and her car wouldn’t make it around the corner yet before his behavior. Pretty incredible.

[@keridefrancesco8571]

Same with my husband. Our cat will know when he is rounding the corner onto our street. It's crazy.

[@mariadaigle8964]

This is so true my cat knew I was leaving when he show me puting my coat on he would stop what ever he was doing and jump on the window and I would wave to him it's so fantastic to each my boy

[@sherrypettit5552]

My cat greets me at the door when I come home. When I shattered my leg and was gone for 6 weeks, I had to sleep downstairs. She slept on that bed everynight. Between the walker and wheelchair she knew something was wrong.😊

[@jwsuicides8095]

My ex husband told me he saw the same thing happening with me and my cat!

[@itisamystery.5090]

I had a boy that I rescued as a kitten who was definitely a "velcro cat." He stowed away somewhere underneath my mother's car, stayed there for about four hours, and then survived an hour long drive back to our house. We weren't going to keep him at first, but considering the journey he went on, and him being a black cat, we ultimately decided to keep him with us. I affectionately started to call him my shadow, because I *had* to be in his line of sight at all times. Followed me everywhere. Whenever I'd leave the house for long periods of time I was told he would pace up and down the hallways crying and everything. He was a big cuddler, absolutely loved the big fur ball. I remember sitting in my room playing video games and he would always come over and either curl up in my lap or lay his head on my arms. I could've literally done _anything_ to that cat and he wouldn't have cared. Unfortunately, he only made it to 9 years before he succumbed to diabetes, but my god, he was the sweetest fur baby I've ever had the privilege of owning. It's been six years, miss him so much still. My current cat... not so much. 😅 Love her to death too, but goodness, she's a moody one.

[@DonyaLane]

@It is a mystery , I'm so sorry you lost your sweet kitty to diabetes. What a heartbreak... That "stowaway" story is AMAZING!

[@kennyFF033]

A feral black kitten showed up in our yard one day, hungry and worn. After playing chase and trying to herd her into the house unsuccessfully, I put food and water out and patiently waited. It took a week or so of me feeding her and sitting quietly in proximity before I could even pet her. She would purr and head rub everything in sight but did not want to be touched. Fast forward and we now have one of the coolest cats ever. She adopted me and follows me around when I'm outside, hangs with me inside and escorts the rest of the family when they are outside. We named her Shadow, because she is black and knows very well how to blend in and disappear. She is still on game time and is an avid huntress, so forget getting her to come inside for the night around a full moon. She has been a welcome addition to the family and has certainly enriched my life. I continue to learn and communicate with her and it looks like I found the right guy and channel to help me understand my cat better.

[@Play_Journal]

I had a similar thing happen with my mom's car. My mom went to Costco to discover a kitten (one of triplets) around our house had hitched a ride. She ran off in the parking lot. My mom couldn't get her. I went to Costco two hours later, and put up a flyer in a break room. When I got home, I got a call saying that the kitten was at the edge of the parking lot, by a thirty foot drop. I went back to Costco, snuck up on her, and snatched her up. She dug her claws into me, and I took her home. Although the cat is friendly with everyone, she adores me, and for some reason, my dog?

[@StompMom5]

Oh I know they miss their humans!!! When we adopted our oldest cat from the shelter there was one person in the family she bonded with the most...my daughter. When my daughter went off to school for the day the cat would cry and scratch at the door for probably a good hour despite our many attempts to comfort her. When my daughter came home the cat became very clingy, wouldn't leave her side for a bit. Yes, cats miss their humans no doubt 😻😻😻😻😻😻😻.

[@carina9629]

We have the same name!!

[@bruteboy123]

Cute orange tabby ☺🤗

[@CindyRussi.]

Awe❤️❤️

[@StompMom5]

@@carina9629 Dang.... I didn't think anyone else spelled it that way😊👍😊👍😊👍😊. Love your name 😅

[@NinjaFlibble]

My sister said my cat was the same way when he was a kitten and I would leave for class.

[@khou0]

When my cats are home alone I like to hide treats around the house so that they have something to do besides playing with toys and looking out the window. It also keeps their critical thinking skills sharp.

[@Buddythesmartycat]

My cat would just follow me around and eat them as I placed them down. There is no way I get away with even touching the treat bag or going very far without him being under foot, lol. Sounds like a great idea, though, if you have a big enough house and they are not velcro cats.

[@SuPeRMeGaJoE0]

As someone who's raised "bottle babies," I can absolutely confirm them having more human aspects. One of my cats, when she was a handful of months old, every morning, would come and sit in front of my oven and look at herself in the reflective glass surface. She would then look at me and meow, then back and meow. This would carry on for 5 to 15 minutes every day for months. I guess she finally figured out that she wasn't a human and accepted it.

[@jackshaganash540]

My cat is a velcro cat and I've always wondered why she hates other cats so much but learning about the bottle baby thing made so much sense to me. because she's a rescue she was probably bottle fed and babied by humans as a kitten and didnt have much exposure to other cats until she was placed in a foster home where she probably didn't get babied as much and she was around tons of other animals and it was probably complete chaos for her so she acted out. we were told she was "bad" when we adopted her but shes the sweetest little baby, shes 12 now but she still acts like a kitten for us, we can't get other pets though or she will act out and it makes so much sense after watching your videos.

[@maggiesays7827]

I adopted my cat from a vet that kept her mother in the barn and had another litter. She came to me scared and became my buddy quickly. We had an older cat when we got her but since he's been gone 10 years now, she doesn't seem to get along with any other animals. She prefers to be by my side as much as possible. I'm taking in another cat in 2 weeks. He'll be with us about a year and then going back to my daughter's house. He's a Persian and my daughter is concerned about the hair around her newborn.

[@jackiehoward7300]

Last year my husband and I adopted two older male cats. They are the sweetest boys and so loving. One of the cats, Pocket has taken to me. When I wake up to go to work, Pocket cries loudly. He always gets excited when it’s time for me to come home. One day, I was really late coming home h cried and roamed by the front door. He knew. His brother Tibby, hangs out mostly with my husband. When my husband goes out, Tibby cries for him.

[@Sunfell]

I can say most definitely YES! When I was stationed in the UK, I left my two cats at a boarding cattery (awesome place!) for three weeks when I went on leave. When I returned, I told the lady who ran the place that they probably missed me. "Oh, they're fine- they've had a good time here," she said, in almost a dismissive manner. When we went into the courtyard where the runs were, I called, "Where's my kitties?", and they came dashing out from the indoor area, and hung on the screen crying and carrying on. "I've never seen cats do that," the lady said. And more recently, my Siamese cat lost his 19-year old cuddle pal, and was a velcro kitty on me. I still had to work, and it bothered me to have to leave him all by his little ol' lonesome during the day. When I opened the door, he'd come running out of the bedroom, meowing at me in a very interesting way. I even caught it on video. Happily, he's got plenty of companionship now, because I adopted a pair of young Siamese sisters a couple of months ago. They're now my door greeters, but my older guy still sleeps with his arms firmly around mine, and his chin on my shoulder.

[@pcatMe]

wise move to adopt companions

[@suzanajenic4918]

Thanks to Jackson i took a pregnant cat from a street, and didn't want her to be alone so i left one of her kittens now i have two cats for over a year that play all the time alone or with one another, and i think that it would be very hard if i had only one cat Thank you Jackson for everything that you teached me about cats 🖤

[@stevenhenry4227]

Hello Suzana how are you doing today

[@jessicamaltese8328]

I believe my cats miss me. Everytime I come home from work, they ALWAYS come and greet me at the door. Then follow me everywhere and want to snuggle with me ❤️ I'm also a big follower in your routine of the 3 R's that you taught me and find that works out PERFECTLY. THANK YOU so much for everything you teach! You're the best!

[@stevenanthony8952]

Hello Jessica how are you doing today

[@EmilyKresl]

I know why 70%of people don't subscribe, it's because they're watching you on their tvs and it's harder to subscribe from a smart TV.

[@beckykay9178]

I just discovered your channel and have been binging on your content BECAUSE (drumroll, please!) we are welcoming TWO kittens into our home in two days! We’re so excited! Your content has really helped us prepare, and your insistence upon having two cats, if possible, has really helped dispel my concerns over getting two instead of one. Thank you!

[@jeandixon586]

I loooove Jackson's humour. That's a bonus. The real meat here is that every single one of his videos is packed with important information, hands-on experience, wisdom, common sense and love for cats and all animals. I wish his 1.33 million subscribers would actually watch these videos. And yes, that the 70% who watch would subscribe and help the channel ... and thereby the cats ♥️

[@philgrossman660]

I can totally relate to this. In the mid-nineties, I had a cat (or did she have me), Tina. I went to work and had a parking space right in front of my apartment. When I came home & parked, there she was, buffed up against the window, meowing. It meant the world to me that someone was waiting for me (yeah, I know she wanted her food etc.) but it really did mean a lot to me, and her. A few years later I moved in with my mum, for whatever reason, Tina had to be with me wherever I was, she was a bit of a nervous cat, she had to sleep on the bed with me, bless her, she's long gone now. My current cat, Cactus, apparently when I get in the lift to go upstairs, he knows I'm there, he comes & greets me. Every year when we go on holiday he goes to a "cat hotel", apparently he gets on well with the cats next door to his room & the people who care for him. When I go and pick him up, he's all over me, and follows me closely when we get home. My favourite story is from a chap, Guy, who I worked with. He went on holiday and the neighbours looked after his cat for a couple of weeks. When he got home, his cat sort of ignored him, but sat in front of the TV, back to him, occasionally turning around to say "you still here?"

[@ChosenPlaysYT]

I left for a business trip for a few days. When I got home my cat was on the couch looking like he just wanted to die, never seen him look so sad. When I walked in he was timid for like 10 seconds then was quickly purring like crazy and super excited. They definitely miss you if you are good to them.

[@leah425]

I have three cats, I am sure they miss certain aspects of me in my absence, but one of my guys is quite attached to me. Luckily he travels well so he comes on all our weekend camping trips and road trips and has a great time. When I leave him, sitters have reported he doesn’t eat (he is very food motivated), gets diarrhea and other behaviour changes. I adopted him 12 years ago and we have been together almost everyday since! I still need him more than he needs me though haha

[@sarahnelson8836]

How have you found hotels etc that are cat friendly? Most seem to just be dog friendly but say “pet friendly” it’s confusing

[@falcon_arkaig]

​​@@sarahnelson8836 People seem to be Dog Focuses a lot. I will Google something like "best emotional support animals" and it all comes up w/ dogs. Even though many great animals can be ESA's (like cats, ferrets, goats, birds, etc!) I also Googled "Best appartement animals," and all the results were small dogs. Like, I get it, but I also don't. Cats are generally less messy than dogs so Idk why many Motels/Hotels won't allow cats. Way less noisy (barks are way louder) and are smaller then most dogs!

[@leah425]

@@sarahnelson8836 honestly I haven’t stayed at a hotel since I was a child, I didn’t know it was like that! Poor kitties, they should definitely be allowed if dogs are. We are usually in a tent or our camper van with our cat. That is very confusing.

[@nintoollica955]

This is going to be me in the middle of October. I'm about to leave for a three month trip to Japan and it's going to be absolutely soul crushing leaving my two cats behind. Luckily, they will be staying with my parents, but I know deep down inside that they will be missing me as much as I'll be missing them.

[@Mander61]

You can always face time with them. At least I know that they know our voices

[@thefaboo]

Our previous cat had a special "I'm looking for someone!" meow. I'm our current cat's safe person, and he can get very anxious when I leave, and regardless greets me at the door whenever I get home.

[@TheVgasm]

Mine used to meow "Heh-row?" like " Hello?" When he came thru the cat door and would stop once he found me. I even hid to see how long he would do it for or if he could smell me (he couldn't, he confirmed me by sight)

[@BrisLS1]

My cat does this same thing; she's a little person, I am convinced. One person cats are completely different from family cats. We had tons of them when I was growing up, and they were all beautiful to look at, but none had this much personality.

[@TheVgasm]

@@BrisLS1 yes! After my stray rescue died, I was told it's better to get a pair of kittens so they have a playmate. But I noticed they don't lapcat and bond with me like my solitary did. I foster-adopted a younger kitten after who got treated like a nephew by the year old pair, and he became my snugglebunny who follows me while I walk my dog; I think spending more time with him like that means we observe way more of whatever personality the cat has.

[@victoriablake3826]

I’ve noticed that when I come back from trips my cats are quite a bit clingier and more affectionate for a few days. They’re not as excited when I come back as my dog is, true, but they definitely show they miss me in their own way

[@sc7335]

I’d always thought my cat kind of just tolerated me since I got him 2 years ago (he was a stay kitten and his adoptive home could no longer keep him so I said I would take him) but recently I put him in boarding for 5 days while I went away and it made me realise he does miss me/ like me just in his own way! We hadn’t spent more than a night apart in 2 years (as I work from home most days and hadn’t taken a proper holiday since I got him for various reasons), when I went to collect him he came running from the back of the pen to me, he stayed attached to me for the next few days, calling me if I went out of sight basically a Velcro kitty. It’s made me realise that although he isn’t a cuddly cat he does care if I’m there and although he is back to himself now I’ve noticed that all along he would do little things like checking in with me every so often seek me out at night to lay near me and look for me to come home if he was awake. Like humans he just has his own way of showing affection ☺️

[@z0mb13v32]

Both of my elderly cats will start meowing when they can't find us, and won't stop until we come out to pet them and take them to our room. They are sweethearts but man, it's scary when you hear it at 2 am XD

[@warlordofbritannia]

One of my cats does something similar, she’s quite insistent between 4pm and 6pm on making sure you know she’s hungry. Going the bathroom? She’s going to wait exactly outside, constantly meowing. Working on the computer? She’ll get in front of the screen Taking an afternoon nap? You’re going to wake up quite suddenly with claws uncomfortably close to your neck and/or private parts 😂

[@Mtns4]

Thank you for making this video. Our cat is now a “single” where as she had 2 other felines around. It has been a year of loss, our 19 year old just passing away a month ago. Cements my decision to adopt 2 kittens to help keep her company and hopefully less anxious when we leave for the day or short trips. Thank you for all you do!

[@memyselfandi7782]

Oh I am so sorry for your loss. My condolences.

[@stevenhenry2940]

Hello Marilyn how are you doing today

[@calimero600]

It would be also great to adopt aduld cats in the same age for companionship. The people of the shelter can tell you a lot about the character of the cats, so you can find the perfect match!

[@martiphone4884]

Two kitties are ALWAYS better than one.

[@jooleebilly]

I call all kittens “Velcro kitties” when they’re too young to retract their claws. If they really trust you, when you’re sitting where they won’t fall, you can hang 3 or 4 of them on your sweater like Christmas ornaments! They crawl up my soon to be destroyed sweater and lick my nose and bite my ears. Painfully adorable. 😺

[@stevenhenry4227]

Hello Julie how are you doing today

[@andreaschneider6202]

@Julie Carneiro Two Siamese kittens were brought into my family (as a holiday surprise for me when I was in first grade) & I thought I would tell you because of your first name. "Julie" was my favorite girl's name so I gave the female kitten that name. As soon as one of my relatives (seventeen years older) heard her name, he said I should name the male one "David" jokingly. Needless to say, at age six, I did not understand the point so went through with naming the other kitten David. I later discovered who "Julie & David" Eisenhower were! Especially because it has been many years since the demise of my cats (Julie lived until age fifteen--she had a liver issue--& David lived until a year later), I would love to adopt a kitten sooner than later. My son cannot wait though it will have to be once we have a larger living space. Best wishes from NY🐈🐈

[@jooleebilly]

@@stevenhenry4227 I’m a’ight, you?

[@jooleebilly]

@@andreaschneider6202 Thanks for sharing that sweet story!

[@TheVgasm]

My bottle babies tried to nurse my nose several times 😆

[@PuffPastry-ke3cm]

I can confirm that cats miss us. We have three cats in my household, and my sister has a special attachment to one named Hobbes. Hobbes is a rescue and absolutely loves my sister. He stays in her room a lot and cries when she leaves for work. Those two are truly inseparable. There's also Gaster, who's affectionate with generally everyone and is the type to lay with you when you're not feeling well. He also saved our lives once by waking up my mom at night to show her we left the stove on. Lastly, there's Grimm, who cries for attention sometimes. He's the youngest of the bunch, being roughly a year old. He's more independent and energetic than the other two and often tries to run outside when we let the dog out. But I do think he likes attention.

[@tanyawieczorek6603]

Let me guess, Hobbes is named after the stuffed tiger from Calvin and Hobbes? 🐅

[@Bandrik]

Second guess, perhaps an Undertale fan with "Gastor"?

[@ki2348]

the moment i saw Gaster i went straight to the replies tee hee

[@lindahouston4549]

I just don't understand how anyone would not love cats! I've loved cats all my life. When I was very young, my uncle who raised dairy cows, gave me one. I've loved them ever since! He was a really wonderful uncle! ❤

[@theprousteffect9717]

Because everyone has different experiences and preferences..

[@olgatrilogymartin3143]

Anyone's that hates cats are on my hate list lol

[@bunjijumper5345]

I love all animals, including cows. Would never eat one. Animals deserve love.

[@mr.F.Castle]

I think it because some people cant handle their independence.

[@PocketSand69]

I was traveling for work for a week last week and since I have come home my cat has followed me around the house 24/7. When I stop moving she cuddles up against my hips. She stares into my eyes and boops me with her nose. I know without question she loves me.

[@aubreyvandyne5284]

Cats are often misunderstood by people who were not raised around them. They are wonderful house companions and don't bark when you leave. A great apartment pet too.

[@Jb29820]

All my previous cats seemed kind of, “oh hey you’re back, eh ok…” 😂 which I didn’t mind because I worried about them less while I was away. My current girl though…when I was gone for a week, her caretaker said she seemed very sad and less energetic and she slept in my arms the night I came home. 😭 ❤️

[@vrajy]

Totally true. I found my cat abandoned near a lake and saved it, when she was only about 3 weeks old, or maybe less. She wasn't able to poop on her own, eat or walk,yet. I raised it like a baby, and now she is totally adicted to me. When I go to bathroom, she goes to the litterbox, when we eat, she eats, when I am away from home more than one day, she suffers very much. I was I the hospital for 2 weeks, with covid, and one day my mum was at my house, to feed the cat and take some cloths to bring me to the hospital. When my cat heard my voice over the phone speaker, and recognized it, she started yawning, and long mewoing, like a desperate cry. We had to stop the conversation because she turned totally desperate, punching the phone with her nose and meowing. I cried the hole day, and after two more days I decided to leave the hospital on my own responsability, because I missed her si much and I was afraid she will get ill. Our small friends have souls and feelings, too, this is what I believe.

[@katiewilliams6240]

This is why i like having 3. I had a 12 year old bottle baby and 2, 6 year old girls. When he passed away, the girls still had each other. One of them really needed a friend because the oldest one taught her how to "cat" when i took her in. 6 months later, I decided we were ready to be a family of 3 cats again. I adopted a 4 month old from the local government-run shelter. We will always miss our older guy, but our new one has brought our joy back.

[@nerdycatlover8627]

Yes. I've had 9 cats throughout my life and they all missed their humans when we are gone. They are noticeably more social when we get back and clearly very happy to see us. Some cats handle being alone better than others, but they all miss us when we're gone.

[@amaianimates5605]

My cat screams whenever I leave the house and I think she has a little bit of separation anxiety I have family members that sometimes stay with her but that doesn’t even help with her she only wants me does anyone have any advice for me to help her?

[@HelenMaxwellfan]

You could take some clothing that you have worn and leave it out for her to lay on or snuggle up to. Does she like any kind of food or treats? There are toys that and puzzles where treats are placed inside it. It keeps a cat busy trying to figure out how to get all the treats out. Like Kong toys. Or give kitty a treat before you leave, then another treat after coming home. It worked with dogs and cats among my close and extended family.

[@Brigada91RealBriggy]

@@HelenMaxwellfan my cat doesn't get to many sweets from me, evry now and then BUT when I leave, before I do, I give him a treat and while he is busy, I leave quickly. It works fine for me here

[@Anthony_The_Chicken_Licker]

simple answer take her with you

[@amaianimates5605]

@@Anthony_The_Chicken_Licker most the places I go I can’t

[@amaianimates5605]

@@HelenMaxwellfan thanks!

[@clairec.2383]

My partner and I adopted a cat last monday. She's 3 years old, and the last of her kittens were getting adopted when we picked her up. I've been prepping to be a new cat parent since april with your videos (i have a playlist!), and thanks to your tips- this shy baby went from hiding on top of our microwave, to strutting around the apartment with so much confidence in under 2 weeks! Treats, cuddles, and your catification tips helped so much! Freya is one happy gal.

[@kthearcher3357]

Grats!!!

[@We_Are_All_Vultures]

❣️

[@betsypinina1948]

I always talked to my cat just like I would a person. Told him when I was going to work or the grocery store, or out with friends. I think that I was more co dependent on him than he was me. I hated being away from him too long, and would go into panic mode of I did get home soon enough.

[@4Mr.Crowley2]

Our boy kitty (Siamese) had *extreme* separation anxiety issues (he had been abandoned by his previous owner), so when we would come home he’d be all over us *all the time* -- EXTREME Velcro - including sleeping on us and howling if we left his sight for too long. He *definitely* missed us - we even had two good kitty friends for him who lived with us for years, (he was always king of the house), and he was very sociable with them and would happily play and take naps with his buddies. But his behavior with us was on an entirely different level - he *needed* us to pet him and love him in a way that was very profound compared to his friendships with his kitty pals.

[@m6666]

Siamese cats tend to be real velcro cats. They just love to follow you and talk to you day in day out. I love Siamese, I miss my old girl who passed a couple of years ago. She was pivotal in helping me with my depression, if I was having a bad day she'd lie on my lap with her belly up and hold my hand in position so that I had to scratch her belly, if I was crying, she'd reach up and lick my tears from my face and paw ever so gently at my face as well. By doing this, she always cheered me up. I mean who expects a cat to behave like this? She was my first velcro cat and I'll always love her for her magnificent loving personality 💕 💖 ❤

[@russylan]

We have a shelter kitty who was super sick in his first year of life. He’s the most baby-like cat I’ve never met. He single-handedly morphed me into a “pet mom.” 😂

[@b.east42]

Thank you for always helping everyone with their cats and better understanding them, love your videos and your show!

[@Yorina1Angel]

I just returned from a 1 week trip, I came home to a meowing cat and when I picked him up he was purring like a mad men. This night he slept right next to me like always. He normally is almost glued to me but for today I don’t care. I’m just happy to see him

[@lucyyy212]

My cat was a bottle baby. Totally worth failing a summer stats class because I was feeding her in the back row in my pocket the whole time 😂 she’s the sweetest and super curious and friendly, but she gets separation anxiety without me and I wish I could take her to work with me 😢

[@ShadowsGathered]

Support animal? ;-)

[@sqprr]

May I recommend getting her a friend who's known to be good with other cats? That's part of how I got my youngest, and my eldest has much less separation anxiety now.

[@lucyyy212]

@@sqprr I've been thinking about it! She's historically not liked other cats but I think if I took a few days off work for a supervised interaction it might go better? I'm just worried that it'd make both her and a new cat stressed out

[@sqprr]

@@lucyyy212 So the main thing with cats is that they are territorial and want gentle, slow introductions. Jackson has some great resources. If you can get a kitten, they might bond better, but a juvenile cat who is confident and likes other cats might be your best route (what I did). I'd close off the area for the new cat way in advance so that your car doesn't associate the newcomer with a loss of territory. Then get some feliway multi-cat diffusers (honestly the single cat ones might be good for your little one now) and start with scent and no sight feedings, then progress. I don't know that you need to take a ton of time off of work, but having some extra time for play and attention for both of them during the transition is awesome.

[@lucyyy212]

@@sqprr She has feliway already! It hasn't helped what I see but that doesn't mean it doesn't help her when I'm not there (hope it does!) I've actually been looking at kittens posted at some of my local shelters and I gotta say... I'm tempted