Cats See Owners Packing Their Things—Start To Panic When They Realize Why
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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A TikTok video showing two cats' dramatic response to the realization they're about to go on a road trip has gone viral, amassing more than 700,000 views within 24 hours.
The clip, shared by the account @winstonandspooky, features a montage of footage that chronicles the moment Winston, a tabby, and Spooky, a black cat, piece together the impending horror: travel.
The video opens with the two felines calmly lounging in the living room. But their demeanor quickly shifts as they observe their owner packing suitcases. Suspicion turns into panic when the ultimate sign appears—cat carriers.
Winston is the first to make a move, bolting toward the bedroom. Finding the door locked, he makes a quick dash for the spare room, where he dives under the bed for cover.
A stock image of a frightened cat watching out of the gap between the bed and wall.
A stock image of a frightened cat watching out of the gap between the bed and wall.
David_Bokuchava/iStock / Getty Images Plus
Spooky, on the other hand, struggles with stealth. On-screen text jokingly explains: "Spooky was not as good at hiding but she did try dodging, dipping, ducking and diving us," as she darts around attempting to slip into the bedroom.
Eventually, both cats congregate outside the bedroom door, meowing in what viewers have interpreted as a desperate plea for sanctuary. The video concludes with the owners relenting, opening the door and allowing the cats to hide while packing continues.
Though the footage isn't new, the caption clarifies: "The video that made Winston and Spooky famous all those years ago." It's a fitting throwback for the feline duo, who have since built a following of over 402,000 fans on TikTok.
It isn't unusual for cats to react strongly to the idea of travel. According to Cats Protection, a U.K.-based charity, many felines find traveling highly stressful—often due to unfamiliar smells, noises, and the disruption of their routine.
Tips for Long Car Journeys with Cats
The charity's website offers helpful guidance for pet parents planning a road trip, with tips designed to make travel safer and more comfortable for their feline companions:
Schedule a Vet Visit : Ensure your cat is in good health and fit for travel before hitting the road.
: Ensure your cat is in good health and fit for travel before hitting the road. Manage Feeding Times : Unless advised otherwise by your vet, avoid feeding your cat a few hours before departure to reduce the risk of vomiting and motion sickness.
: Unless advised otherwise by your vet, avoid feeding your cat a few hours before departure to reduce the risk of vomiting and motion sickness. Pre-Plan Your Route : Organize rest stops in advance and never leave your cat unattended in the vehicle, especially in warm conditions. If traveling alone, keep breaks short and make sure the car remains cool and well-ventilated.
: Organize rest stops in advance and never leave your cat unattended in the vehicle, especially in warm conditions. If traveling alone, keep breaks short and make sure the car remains cool and well-ventilated. Limit Daily Drive Time : Aim for no more than four hours of travel per day. If that's not possible, pause every two to four hours to check on your cat.
: Aim for no more than four hours of travel per day. If that's not possible, pause every two to four hours to check on your cat. Overnight Accommodation: When stopping overnight, give your cat access to a quiet, secure room where they can relax away from the travel chaos.
TikTok Reacts
As of now, the May 22 video has over 78,000 likes and 225 comments.
"You [have got to] put the carrier out a few days ahead," suggested one user, and another shared: "I keep his carrier out the whole year. He even goes inside on his own to sleep like it's a bed."
"My cat foams at the mouth every time she goes in the car. Her first car ride was moving from Georgia to Michigan [with a] 15 hour car ride. I thought she had rabies," said a third commenter.
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
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