Cuddle-Obsessed Cats Wins Pet of the Week

Newsweek

24-05-2025

Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
From a cat that recently turned 24 (112 in human years) to a dog and cat being hilariously scolded for their "bad report card," viral pet stories have brought smiles to our faces this week.
But we also love seeing our readers' pets and sharing their stories in our Newsweek Pet of the Week feature. If you want your pet to be involved next week, don't forget to follow the instructions at the end of this story.
Winners
Cookie and George cuddling together, something they often do.
Cookie and George cuddling together, something they often do.
Madeline Katan/ @cookieandgeorge/TikTok
This week's Pet of the Week winners are the adorable George and Cookie, who found each other and a home after living on the streets of New Brunswick, New Jersey.
"They were rescued from a parking lot in New Brunswick in 2021," owner Madeline Katan told Newsweek. George had lived there for eight years, while Cookie, a chronically ill stray, appeared around 2020. Since then, the two have been inseparable.
"They have a love fest every day," she said, laughing about how they even "sneak off for a private tryst."
The cats' connection has inspired Katan creatively. As an author, she's now envisioning a new project titled Cathattan: Cookie and George Take NYC by Storm. Though still in its early stages, it's a tribute to what she calls "a great love story—kind of like Cleopatra and Marc Antony, only hopefully with a happier ending."
Finalists
Dodger the Bassett Hound with his owner.
Dodger the Bassett Hound with his owner.
Grace Rosales
This week's first finalist is Dodger, an 8-year-old basset hound with a big personality and penchant for dancing.
"He loves to dance," owner Grace Rosales told Newsweek. But like any star, he has his moods. When he's upset, Dodger puts on his best "Don't look at me" face, a hilarious grumpy expression that captures his sassy nature.
Next up this week is Rolo, a 3-year-old Siamese cat with a big frame and even bigger personality. Weighing nearly 20 pounds, he is little brother to 19-year-old Raven and best buds with the neighborhood cat, Rebel.
Rolo the 3-year-old cat who has celebrity status.
Rolo the 3-year-old cat who has celebrity status.
TJ
Rolo thrives on attention, whether he's patrolling the garden for pests, charming shoppers at PetSmart, or showing off his tricks—yes, he knows his left from his right and literally jumps through hoops.
A bona-fide "celebri-cat," Rolo has been on TV before, including with the local NBC affiliate and radio station WTMJ.
"Rolo is a bit of a ham, always needing attention. He loves spending time with his daddies, as well as hanging out in our yard. It is his job to keep the gardens pest free," owner TJ told Newsweek.
Marty the cat taking his supervising role seriously.
Marty the cat taking his supervising role seriously.
Nancy Monicke
Last but not least, this week is Marty, a 5-year-old cat often found supervising the goings-on around the house.
"In my apartment there is no privacy and you are never alone. Marty insists the bathroom door remain open so he can "observe and supervise" any bathroom activities," owner Nancy Monicke told Newsweek.
Behind the shower curtain, Marty watches like a furry little guardian, completely hidden, until you catch his eyes poking through the folds. He often leaves his owner in stitches.
If you think your pet could be next week's Newsweek "Pet of the Week," send us your funny and heartwarming videos and pictures of your pet, along with a bit about them to [e-mail], and they could appear in our "Pet of the Week" lineup.