Parade Pets

I am so ready for fall I can practically taste the apple cider, so naturally TikTok has now decided to show me a cinnamon colored British Shorthair cat who looks like someone took everything I love about autumn and put whiskers on it. His fur is this gorgeous chocolate brown color, his eyes are golden yellow, and basically all he needs is a tiny pumpkin sitting next to him.

And this beautiful British Shorthair isn’t doing anything particularly exciting in the video, either. He’s rolling around on his back looking like a pumpkin spice dinner roll and that is apparently enough for me. I don’t need a plot. I need to look at the fall cat. I also need to stop sweating and for this awful heatwave to be donezo.

@maple.meow

Princess 💖 #browncat #britishshorthair

♬ original sound – evi 🎀

The adorable clip was shared by the TikTok account @maple.meow.

LOOK AT HIM.

He’s brown.

He’s round.

He’s got those huge golden eyes.

He’s a cinnamon bun with a face.

A little chocolate truffle who somehow grew ears.

Related: Rare British Shorthair Kitten Looks Like a Toy Stuffed Bear

If October called me and said it was going to be late this year but it was sending this cat instead, I would accept those terms.

I also love the fact that British Shorthairs always look like they have somewhere important to be even when they’re lying upside down doing absolutely nothing.

This man could be rolling around on the carpet and I’d still assume he has a 3 p.m. meeting.

British Shorthairs Are Basically Living Teddy Bears @moosetheshorthair

Kitten or teddy bear? 🧸🤎 #britishshorthair #kitten #browncat #chocolatebritishshorthair #catsoftiktok #rarecat

♬ About You – The 1975

British Shorthairs are known for their dense coats, round faces, and chunky little bodies, which explains why looking at one can make you immediately want to smoosh your face into it.

Their coats can come in many colors and patterns, too. Blue may be one of the colors people most associate with the breed, but British Shorthairs aren’t limited to that classic greyish blue look.

Related: Precious Orange Shorthair Kittens Are the Cutest Little Teddy Bear Twins

And apparently chocolate brown is what happens when the universe decides we need a seasonal edition.

I already want mums everywhere. I want crisp mornings. I want Halloween decorations and sweaters and absolutely NO MORE 90-degree days.

Now I want the fall cat.

I do not need another cat.

I especially do not need TikTok presenting cats to me according to season because this is going to become a problem.

But if somebody shows me a fluffy white British Shorthair in December looking like a snowball, all bets are off.

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Cats have a reputation for being solo hunters and aloof. But house cats are actually loving and often deeply bonded to their humans. Still, cats don’t snuggle up to just any person—or feel at ease under any roof. So how do you know if you feline family member feels safe or not? The good news is, while cats can be mysterious creatures, they have plenty of ways of telling people when they feel comfortable in their surroundings. From where they choose to sleep to how they move around the house, your cat’s everyday habits can reveal just how relaxed they feel.

Vets say that understanding the signs your cat feels secure can bring you closer together and help you ensure they’re healthy, happy and behaving like the best furry roommates.

“Having a home where they feel safe allows cats to relax, sleep, eat, play and interact with their people without constantly feeling like they need to be on alert,” explains Dr. Nita Vasudevan, DVM, an Embrace Pet Insurance veterinarian contributor. “A cat that feels secure is generally going to show more of their normal personality. They may be more social, playful, affectionate and curious.”

Dr. Vasudevan adds that cats are very good at hiding stress, so creating a sense of safety is especially important with these pets. She points out that one way to make your space feel like a safe territory is to remember that cats are creatures of habit who feel most comfortable when they know what to expect from an environment. That’s why getting the basics down consistently, like access to food, fresh water, clean litter boxes, mental stimulation and cozy sleeping spots, goes a long way.

Dr. Vasudevan also reports that cats crave autonomy. “One of the biggest things is simply allowing your cat to choose when they want interaction,” Dr. Vasudevan says. “Giving them the ability to walk away and come back on their own terms can go a long way toward helping them feel secure.”

If you’re a cat parent, how do you know that everything you’re doing is working? Dr. Vasudevan suggests looking out for these seven signs below.

Related: 7 Signs Your Cat Thinks the World of You, According to an Expert

7 Signs Your Cat Considers Your Home Their Safe Territory A cat who feels safe in their pet parent’s arms.

Getty Images elifilm

It’s so sweet to notice signs that your cat considers your home their safe splace. But sometimes, you have to look a little harder with cats to read their emotions than you do with dogs. See what Dr. Vasudevan reveals are some green flags that your cat considers your home the sweetest and most secure spot they know.

1. They sleep out in the open

If you’re curious how to tell if your cat feels safe, Dr. Vasudevan reports that where they sleep is a good place to start as that’s a vulnerable time for animals. Where they lay their head reveals a lot about how secure they feel with certain people and places, like your home.

“A cat that is comfortable sleeping on the couch in the middle of the floor on your bed or in an exposed spot could be telling you she is comfortable,” Dr. Vasudevan explains. “Cats naturally enjoy cozy, enclosed spaces.”

2. They have relaxed body language

Your kitty’s body language can be one way for you to know how your cat is doing. When they feel calm, they may even communiate that with their eyes. “When a cat slowly blinks at you, it’s often a sign that they’re comfortable and not feeling threatened,” Dr. Vasudevan explains.

She also notes that relaxed cats have a certain “look” to their bodies that pet parents may not notice unless they know what to look for. Signs of relaxed body language in cats include:

• Lying on their side
• Stretching out
• Grooming themselves
• Sitting with their paws tucked comfortably underneath them
• Ears in a neutral position (rather than pinned back)
• Whiskers won’t be pulled tightly against their face
• Eyes may look soft rather than wide and watchful

3. They pee in their litter box

While this cat behavior may sound like something normal, Dr. Vasudevan notes that cats who feel secure at home generally have predictable litter box routines. “Cats prefer having a clean, quiet, accessible place to eliminate so consistently choosing their litter box is one sign that their basic environmental needs are being met,” she reports.

Dr. Vasudevan adds that cats don’t start peeing outside of the litter box out of spite. Often, changes in litter box habits are red flags for medical problems or stress. That’s why she recommends calling a veterinarian if a normally reliable cat starts having accidents outside of their litter box, rather than assuming it’s a behavior issue.

Related: 6 Signs Your Cat Sees You As Part of Their Inner Circle, Say Vets

4. They scratch their scratch posts—not your furniture

Scratching is a normal behavior for cats. After all, it’s how they stretch, maintain their claws and leave visual and scented marks in their environment. If your cat is scratching the items you got for that very purpose, it shows they are happy that they feel comfortable in your home and aren’t anxious about anthing.

“It can be a sign that they’re comfortable enough to engage in normal territorial behavior rather than feeling the need to hide or stay constantly vigilant,” Dr. Vasudevan shares.

5. They play with you

Is your cat playful? If so, that’s a good thing! Cats who play feel protected where they live tend to let their guard down. Ones who are worried aren’t able to enjoy that activity as much.

“A cat that chases a wand toy, bats at a toy mouse or engages in a little game of chase with you is showing curiosity and confidence in their surroundings,” she says. “Play also requires a cat to focus on something other than watching for potential threats.”

6. They strut

If your cat has a certain swagger in their step, their body language is letting you know they are secure in their environment and have no fears.

“A cat that considers your home their territory will often move through it like they own the place,” Dr. Vasudevan says. “They may regularly explore different rooms, jump onto furniture, investigate new things or move between their favorite sleeping, eating, and play areas without constantly stopping to retreat or hide.”

7. They rub their face on you—and furniture

Cats aren’t like bulls so they don’t head-butt out of anger. Instead, it’s a sign of love and shows they trust you. Dr. Vasudevan explains that cats use head bumps and face rubs for scent marking because they have scent glands around their cheeks, chin and forehead. So if your kitty does that to you, don’t think it’s a bad thing. It’s actually the opposite.

“When cats rub against you, furniture, doorways, or other objects, they’re leaving their scent behind,” Dr. Vasudevan explains. “It’s one of the ways cats make their surroundings smell familiar and establish what they consider part of their territory.”

Source:

Dr. Nita Vasudevan, DVM, an Embrace Pet Insurance veterinarian contributor.

When it comes to deciphering how pets are thinking and feeling, cats tend to fall into the mysterious category. After all, they’re not usually as easy to read as dogs, making it important to try to look beneath the surface for clues on how your pet is trying to communicate with you. Though cats do show signals on how they’re feeling—they’re just subtle, which is why so many pet parents accidentally overlook them. “Cats often show affection through small, everyday choices rather than grand gestures,” explains Aimee Warner, DVM, resident veterinarian at Waggel.

Because of that, you’re probably not the only cat mom or dad who misses your furry family member’s sweet gestures. “Some of the most meaningful signals are also the easiest to overlook,” reveals Jo Myers, DVM, a veterinary advisor at Vetster. So, your cat could be throwing little hints out there about their mental and emotional state, or be telling you that they love you and you simply may not pick up on them.

The good news is, as you spend more time together, you’ll be able to learn your cat’s body language and behaviors better. Because while meows can be telling, cats have so many more ways of communicating with you than that. Keep reading to see what vets say are some of the little things you may not notice at first that are actually ways your kitty is trying to talk to you.

Related: These 7 Affectionate Cat Breeds Love Human Company and Are Anything But Loners, According to Experts

7 Little Things Your Cat Does That Say More Than a Meow Ever Could A cat communicating they feel safe.

Getty Images Isabel Alcalá

They Camp Out at Your Bed Each Morning

If your cat makes a beeline for your bed every morning, don’t assume it’s just about breakfast. Even when their bowls are full and their litter box is clean, if your furry companion’s basic needs are met and they’re trying to get your attention, there may be a sweet meaning behind their behavior. “They are most likely wanting attention or affection from you,” says Liza Cahn, DVM, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance. She adds, this is a funny yet cute way your cat communiates that they enjoy your presence and wants more of your company.

So while your cat may not be saying good morning out loud, choosing to seek you out is one of the clearest ways they can talk to you without speaking.

They Sleep at Your Feet While You Work

Your cat doesn’t have to be in your lap to be showing you they feel safe around you, experts say they can show you by sleeping near you as well. “There is no greater compliment than a cat falling asleep on or near you,” Cahn says. “Sleep is one of a cat’s more vulnerable states, so when they settle close by, they are showing that they feel safe in your presence.” Some cats may sleep at your feet, beside your chair, on your lap or even try to flop across your keyboard, Cahn points out. “The message is similar: They want to be near you while they relax,” she says. 

In other words, that sleepy spot at your feet may be your cat’s quiet way of saying, “I feel protected by you.”

They Let You Pet Them

Not all cats are OK with being pet, as it’s an interaction that requires trust on your feline’s part. “When a cat allows you to pet them, especially when they seek it out, they are showing comfort and trust,” Cahn says. “Predictable and positive human interactions are important for a cat’s wellbeing, and petting can be a lovely bonding moment when the cat is enjoying it.”

When your cat chooses to accept your touch, they may be communicating something that means more than a meow. They may be telling you, “I know I can count on you.”

Related: These 7 Orange Cat Breeds Have a Pumpkin Look and Cozy Vibes to Match, Say Experts

Their Tail Has a Unique Shape

Pay attention to your cat’s tail the next time they walk over to you. Why? It may be telling you exactly how they feel because your cat’s tail can reveal a lot about what they’re thinking and their mood. “An upright tail, sometimes with a slight curve at the tip, is usually a friendly greeting,” Warner notes. “It suggests your cat feels comfortable approaching you and is open to interaction.” So, look for that “question-mark tail” during your interactions.

It’s a small detail, but remember your cat’s body language can speak volumes, and that question-mark tail may be one of a cat’s friendliest greetings to you.

They Choose to Be Near You

It’s no secret that cats are famously independent, which makes when they choose to be near you super sweet. “One of my favorite signs is simply choice,” Myers says. “Cats have opportunities all day long to decide where to sit, where to sleep, whom to approach, and whether to participate in an interaction.” When your cat repeatedly chooses to be near you or engage with you, it’s a good sign that they feel safe and comfortable in your presence, she says. 

So keep in mind that sometimes when it comes to pet cats, the biggest way they display affection is simply choosing your company, even when your cat has plenty of other places they could be.

They Groom You

Besides meows, there are so many adorable signs your cat loves you. In fact, if your cat licks you, it can be a sign of affection. “Some cats may lick their owner’s hand or hair in a way that resembles social grooming,” Warner says. “This can be a sign of closeness.”

After all, mother cats will groom their kittens this way, which is why this behavior suggests that your pet sees you as family.

They Show Affection in Their Own Way

Some cats are cuddly, others just aren’t. That’s why figuring out cat love signs can be tricky. “I’ve known cats who would happily spend all day in someone’s lap and others whose version of affection is quietly following their person from room to room or settling down at the opposite end of the couch,” Myers says. “Cats can have very different ways of showing that they enjoy someone’s company.”

That’s why it’s important to know your cat’s love language as it can help you realize they’ve been telling you you’re their favorite in their own way all along—without a single meow. Then you can respond to it and building your bond. 

Sources:

• Aimee Warner, DVM, resident veterinarian at Waggel.
• Jo Myers, DVM, a veterinary advisor at Vetster.
• Liza Cahn, DVM, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance

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Owning pets means getting creative with how you interact with their things at home. And while you try to take care of each pet’s individual needs as it arises, sometimes it’s nice when your little one’s things can blend seamlessly with your own.

That’s where Target comes in with the Mayeerty Multi-Functional Cat House Coffee Table, a clever home upgrade any cat mom or dad can appreciate. Currently on sale for just $50 and perfect as an end table, night stand and beyond, it brings a functional elegance to your home while doubling as a cozy spot for your furry friend to curl up and rest.

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Multi-Functional Cat House Coffee Table, $50.49 at Target Multi-Functional Cat House Coffee Table

Target

Shop It!

Normally priced at $80.78, the Mayeerty Multi-Functional Cat House Coffee Table is fairly new to Target but totally one worth hopping on quickly. Featuring a 2-in-1 design, it combines a small end table with a cozy cat shelter, effectively eliminating the need for separate pet furniture and ultimately maximizing your living space. 

Perfect for living rooms, dorm rooms, bedrooms, small apartments and more, it offers a sleek, minimalist design that blends seamlessly with most traditional, modern and casual home decors. Best of all, its wide top surface provides ample room for everyday items like coffee mugs, books, remote controls and various pieces of small decor, while down below a semi-enclosed lower area offers cats a private resting spot.

Related: Hobby Lobby’s ‘Elegant’ $11 Cat Trinket Box Is Simply Too Cute to Pass Up

Cat inside cat house coffee table

Target

As for its overall footprint, the table stands 23.54 inches tall with a 17.72 inch diameter, making it super easy to tuck into tight corners and cramped spaces or breathe as a centerpiece all on its own. It’s also made with rounded edges to prevent accidental injuries, plus non-toxic materials to help you create a more safe, worry-free environment for both you and your cat. And with smooth black and gray finished surfaces, it’s also easy to clean with a damp cloth when pet hair, dust and messes get out of hand.

If you’re already eyeing up the perfect spot for it in your home, don’t wait too long to snatch one up, however. It’s only a matter of time before others take notice, plus there’s no telling how long this hefty $30 discount will be in effect. While you’re at it, take a look at Target’s two-level Halloween cat condo for something more spooky-themed and then take a trip over to the snack aisle for Churu’s new cat food inspired by the popular lickable cat treats.

Related: T.J. Maxx’s $20 Calico Cat Pet Bed Is the Cutest Little Oasis

Every now and then, the internet unicorns present a pet so special, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without knowing of their existence. If you’re an adorable pet video connoisseur and thinking, “I’ve seen it all,” prepare for your heart to melt into a puddle. A special Tuxedo cat named Agnes has feline dwarfism that literally gives her a Pug-like appearance:

@agnesthelittlelady

Obviously it’s Agnes💅🏻💕 #foryoupage #bestfriend #tuxedocat

♬ original sound – user67

Agnes “The Little Lady” is blowing up the web with her gigantic “googly eyes,” her perfectly compact Tuxedo-patterned frame, or those stumpy limps and paws you just want to squeeze. As a girl in town who happens to live with dwarfism that doesn’t define her, Agnes is a little spark plug force to be reckoned with.

Whether she’s zooming up the stairs like it’s an Olympic sport, or wowing fans with a level of cuteness that can’t be measured, Agnes deserves the crown for “The Internet’s Favorite Darling.” Actually, yes—someone give this princess her crown STAT!

Related: ‘Talking’ Tuxedo ‘Hippie’ Cat Makes the Most Hilarious Request

Agnes joined her new mom in December 2025, and at 2 years old, weighing just 4 pounds, she moved in with so much spunk and zest for life, you’d never know of any obstacle in her way. Her get-up-and-go attitude is something to be admired.

If, like me, you’re instantly obsessed and can’t live another second without seeing more about this petite, “Puggy” Tuxedo cat, rest assured there’s more in the Agnes treasure trove to behold. Consider this your birthday, holiday, and Cat Day gift all in one!

@agnesthelittlelady

Follow along for more Agnes The Little Lady Content (or she’ll judge you)! 🐾 #kittycatsoftiktok #munchkincat #tuxedocat #cat #funnykitty

♬ Drake style/HIPHOP beat(1491552) – Burning Man

Agnes may be a one in a million find, but if the cat distribution system takes requests, I’ll take six exactly like her.

What To Know About Caring for a Cat With Dwarfism

Little ladies (or gentlemen) like Agnes may be cuteness overload, but there’s a lot more to consider in terms of care before jumping right and to adopt one.

Because of their joint structure and short legs, arthritis and joint pain are common. It’s important to keep an eye out for signs of pain and get them to a vet who can prescribe pain medication if need be. With a compact body, cats with dwarfism can gain weight in all the wrong places, further adding to joint pain and causing mobility issues.

To ensure any kitty like Agnes is thriving, offer steps and ramps throughout your home, and keep things like water and food bowls in easy-to-reach places so they don’t have to jump or strain to get what they need. If you can do these things and stumble on to an angel like Agnes, consider yourself blessed!

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Dogs are often referred to as man’s best friend for a reason. Many dogs love people and are more than willing to be your companion. Some breeds are more people-friendly than others, and one pup is determined to prove this point.

A Golden Retriever named Nash embodies what it means to be man’s best friend. He was recently caught on camera confronting a home intruder. However, this isn’t the kind of confrontation you’d expect. The pup’s reaction to this unwanted visitor is too funny.

@abcnews

An intruder broke into a San Diego home while Nash, a golden retriever, was home alone. Nash immediately jumped into action— offering the intruder a toy.

♬ original sound – ABC News – ABC News

Wow, this pup was ready to make a friend! In the clip, the home intruder entered the family’s home through a second-story window. While the man settled in and made himself comfortable, Nash chilled under the dining room table, and then he eventually brought the intruder some toys, tail wagging rapidly, in hopes of playing. When the police arrived, Nash once again greeted the strangers with a toy. This pup was desperate to play!

People in the comments were cracking up, as well. One viewer said, “Please get your dog a guard dog, LOL,” while another person commented, “Nash was bored!”

Others were sharing stories of their Golden Retrievers behaving similarly to Nash. A user shared a photo of her pup with the caption, “This is Lyla. Lyla recently did the same thing.” Another said, “My Golden gets his toys when he has big emotions… It’s almost like his security blanket. It’s almost like a self-soothing thing.”

These Golden Retrievers just want a friend to play with!

Why Golden Retrievers Are So Friendly

After watching this video, it’s no surprise to learn that Goldens are one of the friendliest dog breeds. This is because they were selectively bred to work alongside humans, thrive on praise, and have a naturally cooperative and gentle temperament.

Related: Golden Retriever’s Precious Post-Beach Hair Is a Total 1980s Dream

Breeders in the 19th century created the Golden Retriever to retrieve waterfowl. These pups needed a gentle mouth to carry the game without harming it, and this trait evolved into a gentle, nonaggressive overall nature.

Working closely with hunters meant they had to listen and stay calm. Wanting to please people became a core part of their instinct, which has evolved into wanting to play to amuse and entertain the people around them.

Goldens may also be genetically predisposed to be cheerier and friendlier than the average dog. This breed has genetic variations in their oxytocin receptors that make them more sensitive to the hormone. This heightened sensitivity helps explain their strong desire for human connection and cooperative behavior.

Lastly, how Golden Retrievers are raised also shapes their behavior. If a Golden is raised in a loving home with attentive humans, they will likely be friendlier than a pup who doesn’t have positive experiences with people. Since Goldens are such popular family dogs, they’re often raised in homes that foster positive experiences with people.

While Nash’s family might have wanted him to deter the intruder, the pup was destined to try to make friends with him instead. This pup’s friendly behavior is just in his nature!

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Oh, Milton. Don’t do the crime if you can’t do the time.

In this hilarious video, Milton the pug is asked by his dad to confess his dirty deed on camera, but the poor pup feels so guilty he can’t bring himself to face the music – no matter how hard his dad tries to convince him.

“You didn’t feel bad when you were committing it, so you don’t need to feel bad now,” he tells Milton.

Apparently, while out for a walk, Milton lunged for an abandoned mozzarella stick on the ground, causing his father to spill coffee all over his shirt. We can’t really blame Milton for his behavior, though; who among us hasn’t gotten a little too excited when surprised with a free mozzarella stick?

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Milton’s fans agree and are rallying around the persecuted pup by shifting the blame:

“He wouldn’t have had to lunge if you had adequately taken care of him by handing him the mozzarella stick in the first place!” asserts one viewer.

“Where is the proof that the mozzarella stick didn’t lunge towards him?” asks another.

“Milton, I own a pizzeria in Buffalo, NY. You come here, honey, and you can have all the mozzarella sticks you want,” offers a third.

Despite his apparent shame, one thing still seems likely to me: Milton would 1000% do it again.

Related: Staffy Puppies Find Their Voices and Instantly Turn Into Feisty Little Potatoes

Do Dogs Get Embarrassed?

Nope. Not in the way we do.

That turned-away face is real, but it’s not embarrassment. Dogs have a whole repertoire of appeasement moves they make when they sense tension: pinned-back ears, a lowered head, a tucked tail, a hunched body, and, as Milton is doing here, refusing to make eye contact. These are calming signals meant to defuse a situation. They are not confessions.

Which means a “guilty look” isn’t about the crime at all. It’s about you. Milton isn’t replaying the moment the coffee went flying. He’s reading his dad’s voice and posture right now and concluding that the safest available move is to look at literally anything else.

Veterinary behaviorists point out that misreading these signals leads people to punish dogs for behavior that’s entirely normal, such as foraging. A mozzarella stick within a pug’s reach isn’t a moral test. It’s lunch, plain and simple.

So Milton isn’t actually ashamed. He’s being diplomatic about a tense moment he doesn’t fully understand. The shirt, sadly, remains a separate matter.

Related: Tiny Cocker Spaniel-Shar Pei Mix Puppy Has the Face of a Little Black Bear

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Dogs waiting for adoption in shelters can feel like time stands still. Hoping to finally get chosen by a family can take a toll on canines who have already dealt with abuse and abandonment. When that glorious day finally arrives and a precious pooch gets their freedom ride, the happiness on their face is indescribable.

Huey the black Labrador puppy was recently adopted from the City of Mobile Animal Services and showed his excitement as soon as he set his eyes on his new mom.

@dogrescuedude

Starting your Saturday off right at The City of Mobile Animal Services with Huey meeting his new mum. Thank you for all your shares for this sweet boy. ❤️ #dogsoftiktok #doglover #fypシ #foryoupage #dogs

♬ Felt Sill – Grey Harbor Lights

In the TikTok from @dogrescuedude, a shelter volunteer went to get Huey from his kennel. The canine cutie didn’t realize he was about to get the best news.

“Our abandoned puppy Huey meeting his new family for the first time at the shelter,” the on-screen text explained.

The happy puppy was clearly glad to be outside and scampered around, still not knowing what waited for him. Huey entered the reception area and came face-to-face with his new mom, and it was love at first sight for both.

Huey leaned into his mom’s gentle pets, drinking in every ounce of affection. His tail was in full wag mode as it dawned on him that he was finally part of a family.

Huey Was Ready to Roll

At one point, Huey wanted to get going to his new home and gave his mom the signal that he was ready for his freedom ride. The loving Lab gave a quick look back to say goodbye to his friends at the shelter.

Followers were thrilled for the fur baby and posted their thoughts on the tender scene:

Related: Labrador Shares Daily Breakfast With Her Favorite Stuffed Animal, and It’s the Sweetest

• “Aww its so lovely seeing the dogs so happy to go to a new home,” one raved.
• “That tail is wagging,” another pointed out.
• “I love the ones who turn back briefly to say, you did what you promised!” a follower remarked.
• “Oh my goodness he’s so sweet!! I’m so happy that they found each other,” someone cheered.

Huey finally gets to experience a true forever home!

For more information on this shelter, visit the City of Mobile Animal Services website.

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They might seem harmless, but there’s nothing quite like flipping on your kitchen light at 3 a.m. only to catch a rodent scurrying through your cabinetry. This unwelcome surprise is unfortunately typically part of the fall season every year because as the colder weather gets ushered in, so do the rodents looking for a warmer place to stay. Although they’re not purposely trying to scare you, it’s never a welcome sight to encounter one when you least expect it (speaking from experience).

As fall settles in and brings its chillier weather, it’s likely that you’ll be subject to this type of encounter. Although it may seem like you simply have to live with the constant worry of scurrying feet throughout your home, there are steps you can take to rodent-proof your household in pet-safe ways without the use of toxic chemicals or products that aren’t safe for cats or dogs.

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Many pet parents hope their cats or dogs will naturally take charge of rodent prevention, but relying on your pet isn’t always the safest bet for everyone involved. You’ll also want to be aware of toxic chemicals and traps that could end up injuring your furry friends in the process.

To get down to the safest methods of rodent-proofing your home, we asked pest control experts to give us the lowdown on what you should and shouldn’t do to keep rodents away from your home this fall.

Why Fall Weather Drives Mice and Rats Indoors

Richard Drury / Getty Images

Once the weather drops, it’s time for mice and rats to find their way indoors. According to Nicole Carpenter, a pest control professional and the president at Black Pest Prevention in Charlotte, North Carolina, the cold weather pushes rodents to find space indoors for shelter and warmth.

Apart from warmth, the fall also encourages rodents to seek the indoors in an attempt to find food and water, which can get harder to find outside. While they’ll usually try entering sheds or garages first because they’re easier to access, rodents will pass through any holes or gaps they can find in a structure—including those leading into your house.

100% Pet-Safe Methods to Keep Rodents Out

Andyworks / Getty Images

To avoid those unwanted surprises, it’s best to prevent rodents from entering your home in the first place. While there are plenty of methods out there, these are some of the best pet-safe methods that keep rodents out and your pets secure.

Seal Barriers

Barmaleeva / Getty Images

One of the best ways you can keep your home rodent-free is by ensuring they have no way to enter your home. Ed Dolshun, vice president of business development and technical director at Catchmaster, recommends sealing off any potential points of entry into your home. This includes sealing gaps that are larger than a dime, focusing on rooflines, plumbing, utility penetrations, foundation cracks, doors and garages. If you have trees or shrubs near your home, you’ll want to check for any gaps or holes they may have caused. This season is also a great time to replace any worn-out door sweeps.

If you have a garage, dryer vent or screened roof, close them promptly after opening to keep rodents from scuttling inside. Keeping all barriers sealed and closed is the best way to prevent rodents from finding a cozy place inside your home. Taking an hour to walk the perimeter of your home each season can help you catch these entry points before rodents do.

Related: Do Fleas and Ticks Really Die Off in the Fall? A Veterinarian Explains

Keep Your Home Clean

bymuratdeniz / Getty Images

While you may clean your home daily, there are plenty of other sanitization methods you can take to keep everyone safe indoors. Dolshun says mice can nibble 15 to 20 times a day, and they will take any means to find their next food source. Keeping your food secure and locked can ensure rodents have no reason to search through your home, forcing them to move on. Because unsecured pantry items and crumbs are major attractions for rodents, keep all food in its proper container and clean up spills immediately. Even something as small as a pet’s food bowl left out overnight can be enough to draw rodents into your kitchen.

Rodent Control Products You Should Absolutely Avoid

Luis Marte / Getty Images

If you already have a rodent inside your home, it can be difficult to find the best way to remove it without any toxic chemicals or traps. While experts recommend getting a professional to handle rodent control, homeowners will typically try to handle the problem prior to reaching that step.

Before picking out your rodent control, you’ll want to steer clear of any type of bait. Rodent bait isn’t just dangerous because pets and children can accidentally reach it; it’s also dangerous because poisoned rodents can easily be accessed by pets.

Snap traps and glue boards are another common method, but they’re typically left in areas where pets can easily reach them. If you are going to use these rodent control products, Carpenter recommends leaving them behind large electronic appliances or in hard-to-reach areas.

The fall season is full of plenty of amazing moments, but the increase in rodents in the home is not one of them. While it’s normal for you to want to take any step necessary to eliminate them from the home, it’s important to consider all the factors that can affect pets and children inside.

As the experts share here, one of the best ways to keep everyone safe is by eliminating any points of entry, leaving no room for unwanted guests to enter in the first place.

Sources:

• Nicole Carpenter is a pest control professional and the president at Black Pest Prevention in Charlotte, North Carolina.

• Ed Dolshun is the vice president of business development and technical director at Catchmaster.

Related: Vets Say Fall Allergies Can Start Earlier Than You Think—Watch for These Signs

If you’re a cat person, you already know the drill. Every fall, your couch needs to look like a cat claimed it.

Cat people tend to decorate for Halloween a little differently. There are the pumpkins, the candles and the spooky little details as well as black cats appearing on absolutely everything.

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The Halloween Collection Halloween Pillow, Cat, $9.99 at Aldi

Luckily, Aldi offers a cheap way to lean into the spooky season. The German grocer’s Halloween Collection includes a cat-themed pillow for only $9.99, which goes on sale on Sept. 23. It’s part of Aldi’s growing lineup of Halloween decorations, including throws, inflatables, garlands and LED signs.

At $10, this pillow is a Halloween treat for cat people. There’s something fun about buying seasonal decor that says something about you without turning the room into a Halloween display. Put it on the sofa, a reading chair or on the bed to add character to your space. However, unlike cat toys or scratching posts, this product is for the human in the relationship.

Related: Halloween Arrived Early at Aldi—and This Disney-Themed Plushie Fits Right In

Seasonal shopping can get excessive quickly. Something that looks adorable in October might spend the next 11 months sitting in a storage box. But this cat pillow can stay out year-round with the correct styling and isn’t limited to a single room or a specific decor style.

Imagine coming home on a chilly October evening, curling up on the sofa with a blanket and seeing a black cat tucked into the corner. There’s something fun and special about a cat-shaped pillow during spooky season.

For cat people, seasonal decor is personal. If you already have a mug with a cat face or a doormat with paw prints, this might be your next buy. And for $10, you can pick up more than one without thinking twice.

Related: Aldi’s Carved Wood Halloween Cat Candle Is Part Spooky Decor, Part Permanent Keepsake

An intruder broke into a San Diego home expecting an easy score. What he got instead was an extremely friendly golden retriever named Nash.

Security footage shows Nash repeatedly approaching the intruder with toys in his mouth, tail wagging as he apparently tried to turn the frightening situation into playtime. The intruder, who quickly made himself at home, had one idea, but the golden retriever had a completely different read on the situation.

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Nash’s owners, Dante Rowley and Stephanie Calderon, told NBC 7 San Diego they were away when the break-in occurred and watched much of it unfold on their phones via their security cameras.

The break-in occurred earlier this month, but the security camera footage has only now been made public. Naturally, Nash became a star overnight thanks to his friendly demeanor with the intruder.

There’s certainly something surreal about watching the footage. Most people would expect a dog to become alarmed by an unfamiliar person entering a home. Yet Nash appeared focused on getting the intruder to play with him, and his reputation as a super-friendly dog was confirmed.

Related: Golden Retriever’s Funny ‘Awoos’ Make Him Sound Like an ‘Overdramatic Cow’

“Golden Retriever and Guard Dog Don’t Go in the Same Sentence”

On Facebook, viewers had a different take on what went down. “No, he was extremely smart and kept the bad guy occupied in view of all the cameras. Good dog!” wrote one person. Another suggested that the dog accidentally kept the intruder occupied while the cameras watched for the police to arrive.

Then there were those who know how golden retrievers react. “They don’t meet strangers, only new friends,” one person shared. Another joked that “golden retriever and guard dog don’t go in the same sentence.”

And as one commenter said, “Nash is loved and treated well! That is why he is so friendly.”

Why Golden Retrievers Are So Friendly?

According to the American Kennel Club, golden retrievers are friendly, intelligent, devoted, outgoing, trustworthy and eager to please. Those are all personality traits of a happy-go-lucky dog that will greet everyone warmly. Their friendliness is one of the biggest reasons why these dogs consistently rank among the most popular breeds in the United States.

Still, that does not mean every golden retriever will greet every person the same way. Temperament, training and socialization matter. However, Nash’s instinct to approach a stranger with a toy aligns with the breed’s well-known personality traits.

Related: This Golden Retriever Refuses To Miss Mickey’s Very Important Magic Word

I don’t know how some animals manage to have these absolutely magical little moments while I’m outside getting bitten by mosquitoes and yelling at squirrels, but apparently this beautiful German Shepherd named Koba has been chosen by nature.

Koba recently had an encounter with a monarch butterfly, and everything about the two of them together is ridiculously beautiful. He’s an incredibly fluffy German Shepherd with black, brown, and warm orange fur, so he practically MATCHES the butterfly. And instead of snapping at it or trying to chase it, Koba stays remarkably calm while his tiny visitor gets incredibly close.

@von.jakoba

Koba🥺 #germanshepherd #butterfly #monarchbutterfly #foryoupage #dogsoftiktok

♬ Fairytale (From “Shrek”) – Geek Music

The beautiful clip was shared by the TikTok account @von.jakoba.

I mean COME ON. The butterfly lands right on Koba’s face.

And this giant fluffy dog is just sitting there like a woodland prince who regularly has meetings with butterflies and probably knows several deer personally.

The color match is what really gets me. The monarch’s orange and black wings look so pretty next to Koba’s coat that the entire thing looks planned.

Related: Free-Spirited Stray Cat Chases Butterflies and Accidentally Finds Her New Mom

One person called it a “Disney moment,” and YES.

Another wrote, “She was a fairy.”

Someone else called the pair “two gentle souls sharing a peaceful moment,” while another viewer came up with possibly my favorite new dog breed: “Oh, a BUTTERDOG.”

A butterdog. 😭

That’s it. We’re done here.

Dogs Can Be Surprisingly Gentle With Tiny Creatures @puppies.n.pinot

a little chicken nugget & her golden guardian 💛 — aka Dash & yet another one of his besties 🐥 #animalfriends #hobbyfarmlife #goldenretrieverlife #babychicks #goldenretrieverenergy

♬ BIRDS OF A FEATHER – Billie Eilish

What makes this video so sweet is how careful Koba appears to be around something so small and fragile.

Dogs investigate the world with their senses, and something fluttering around their face is certainly going to get their attention. Of course, every dog is different, and plenty would see a butterfly and immediately decide THIS MUST BE CHASED.

Koba seems perfectly happy to just watch.

One viewer wrote, “I want my eyelashes to look that pretty,” and frankly, same. Another simply called it the “best luck ever.”

It really does feel lucky to catch something like this on video.

The butterfly could have landed anywhere.

Instead, it chose the giant fluffy German Shepherd whose coat happened to match its wings and who was gentle enough to let the whole thing happen.

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Some pets are total sun lovers. My senior Dachshund hunts for any patch of sunlight in the house so she can plop down and soak up some rays. Since I highly doubt she’s working on her tan, I’m guessing she loves the warmth and comfort she feels lying in the direct light. Cats are known for this behavior as well, where they spend copious amounts of time enjoying a good bask.

Cami could definitely be classified as a well-rounded kitty who loves a good sprawl in the sunshine.

@cool.cat.cami

Burnt loaf🥹💞 #fyp #catsoftiktok #chonkycat #loaf #viral

♬ Misty – Lesley Gore

In the TikTok from @cool.cat.cami, the pretty kitty was clearly taking advantage of her sunny outdoor deck and drinking in the bright rays. While Cami was completely adorable with her lush striped coat, the feline fur baby’s voluptuous shape definitely stood out and was likened to a bakery item.

“You put your loaf out to bake in the sun for too long,” the on-screen text joked, with the caption adding, “Burnt loaf.”

The comparison was spot-on as Cami stretched out in all of her full-figured glory, resembling some yeast beginning to expand as it warmed. Followers fell in love with the feline fur baby and posted some of their own observations:

• “Baking cookie dough slowly melting,” one remarked.
• “We’re witnessing some incredible levels of cuteness,” another noted.
• “She’s such a perfect little croissant! Maybe a baguette? I love Cami girl so much!” a follower raved.
• “Calling her a loaf is an understatement, that’s the bakery,” someone pointed out.
• “Remember to turn her — starting to burn a little on the top-side,” a fan joked. 

Why Do Cats Love Basking in the Sun So Much?

Most cats are drawn to the sun and spend large chunks of their day absorbing those Vitamin D rays. Reasons for frequent sunbathing include:

Related: Orange Cat’s Outrage Over Mom Letting in a Stray Is Cracking Us Up

• Ancestral Instincts — Cats still carry the behaviors inherited from their ancestors who originated near the equator in exceptionally warm climates.
• Energy Conservation — Like an efficient solar panel, cats soaks up the sun to reduce the amount of energy needed for thermoregulation, so they can save those essential calories for other activities.
• Comfort and Coziness — Warmth from the sun produces a safe and relaxed feeling that cats enjoy and helps them settle down throughout the day.
• Better Sleep — Natural light helps regulate the circadian rhythms that control sleep in mammals, including cats. Lying in the sun provides felines with deeper, less interrupted sleep cycles.

Cami has her sunbathing down to a science and doesn’t look like she’s cutting down on it any time soon.

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I have days when getting ready means doing my hair, throwing on my outside pants and actually looking like I have my life together. Then I have days when getting ready means changing out of the leggings I slept in and calling it a major accomplishment. This little long haired Dachshund is very clearly in the first group.

Indy is a long haired mini dapple Dachshund with a getting ready routine that is approximately 900 times fancier than mine. She sits patiently while her mom styles that beautiful long hair and adds the finishing touches, and by the time she’s done, Indy looks like a tiny schoolgirl who is about to grab her backpack and head out the door. Talk about cuteness overload.

@indytheminidoxie

Everyone tell her how pretty she looks 🎀🥹 #dogoutfit #dachshund #dogmom #doghairstyle #dogasmr

♬ original sound – estwne

The adorable clip was shared by the TikTok account @indytheminidoxie and the caption simply reads, “Getting my Dachshund ready for the day,” which really undersells what is happening here.

This is not getting ready. This is an appointment.

Related: Mini-Dachshund Gets Told ‘No’ and Immediately Says ‘No’ Right Back to Mom

Indy sits there while Mom works on her long silky ears and hair, and I cannot get over how GOOD she is about the whole thing. Meanwhile, the little pink bows are slowly turning her into a tiny kindergartener who has school pictures at 10 and a very important juice box meeting at 11.

And then there’s her expression.

She looks like she’s been through this before. She knows the routine. Just sit still, let Mom finish the hair and then presumably somebody will hand her a tiny lunchbox and drive her to school.

I also love that long haired Dachshunds have all that gorgeous flowing hair on such tiny little legs. Indy basically has better hair than I do, and she is approximately six inches off the ground.

Long Haired Dachshunds Have Beautiful Silky Coats @indytheminidoxie

a little Labor Day hair 🇺🇸 #dachshund #hairtutorial #dogsoftiktok #weinerdog #laborday

♬ original sound – 𝐦

Long haired Dachshunds are known for their soft, flowing coats, particularly around their ears, chest, legs and tail. That beautiful hair also means they can need regular brushing to help prevent tangles and mats.

And apparently, if you’re Indy, regular grooming can also include getting your hair styled before you begin your day.

I don’t know what she’s doing after this, but I hope it’s important. You do not put on this many pink bows just to sit around the house.

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There are some dogs who need a very specific amount of personal space. Then there is this Great Pyrenees, who apparently looked at two baby goats climbing directly on his head and thought, “Yeah, this seems reasonable.”

I don’t know what could possibly be more fall than a giant fluffy white dog lounging beside hay bales and pumpkins while tiny goats use him as playground equipment. Give me a mug of hot chocolate and a blanket, and I will happily sit here until December.

@high_five_farms

Livestock guardian dog probs. #lgd #greatpyrenees #goats #dog #guarddog

♬ Coffee and Daydreams – Tokyo.Beats & Tokyo.BeatsCreation

The adorable clip was shared by the TikTok account @high_five_farms.

The enormous Great Pyrenees is stretched out beside the hay looking like a very expensive white rug when two fluffy baby goats decide he is obviously there for recreational purposes.

Related: Great Pyrenees Thinks Tiny Goats Are ‘His Babies’ and No One Can Deny It

They climb on him.

They stand on him.

One gets right up around his HEAD.

Sir?

You are a livestock guardian dog, not a piece of playground equipment.

But he barely seems bothered. He’s just lying there while these tiny hooligans treat him like the world’s fluffiest jungle gym.

I would like to know whether this was included in his job description.

Protect goats from predators? Sure.

Watch over the farm? Absolutely.

Allow baby goats to bounce across your skull? Apparently also yes.

Do Great Pyrenees Shed a Lot? @jasonrossman

Do great Pyrenees shed much?#greatpyrenees #lgd #funnydog #bigdog

♬ original sound – Jason, Zshopa and Bukkaki

If watching this enormous cloud of a dog has you thinking you might need a Great Pyrenees of your own, there is something you should know.

That cloud comes apart.

Great Pyrenees have thick double coats that help protect them from the weather, and yes, they shed. Regular brushing can help remove loose fur and keep their coats in good condition, especially during heavier seasonal shedding periods.

In other words, if you live with a Great Pyrenees, you may also live with Great Pyrenees tumbleweeds.

On the sofa. Under the table. Floating mysteriously through a room five minutes after you vacuumed.

They’re also large working dogs that were developed to guard livestock, so families should look beyond that gorgeous fluffy exterior and make sure their size, exercise, training and grooming needs fit their lives.

Although I don’t believe the official breed description mentions serving as a goat jungle gym.

This guy appears to have added that qualification himself.

And judging by those two baby goats, he’s getting a five-star Yelp review.

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I don’t know what it is about the low battery beep from a smoke detector, but that tiny little chirp can drive me absolutely nuts. Apparently I’m not alone because one fluffy black dog named Maggie is so scared of the sound that the poor little thing actually starts trembling when she hears it.

Maggie is a fluffy black terrier mix with the biggest bunny ears I have ever seen on a dog, which unfortunately means she’s VERY well equipped to hear that smoke detector chirp. She even stands there clutching her toy in her mouth while she trembles, and oh my heart, somebody please change the battery and cuddle this baby immediately.

@elizabeth.pericat

#dogs #dogvideo #stresseddog

♬ original sound – Maggie’s World

The adorable clip was shared by the TikTok account @elizabeth.pericat.

Maggie is standing there with her toy in her mouth, and those enormous ears are straight up while her entire little fluffy body trembles. 😭

Oh Maggie.

Related: German Shepherd Puppy’s Tiny Head Tilts Are Sweet Enough to Cause a Cavity

The toy in the mouth really gets me because it looks like she’s grabbed her emotional support belongings and is preparing to evacuate.

And listen, I get it. That chirp is horrible. It’s quiet enough that you spend ten minutes wondering whether you actually heard something, and then BEEP. You wait. Nothing. Maybe it’s over?

BEEP.

Maggie says absolutely not. Change the battery. Sell the house. We are done here.

Also, I need to discuss these ears because this dog looks like someone put bunny ears on a little black dust mop. I don’t know what breeds are hiding in there, but whatever contributed the ears deserves a trophy.

Dogs Can Be Sensitive to High Pitched Sounds @thatdawgpenny

#highpitch #noisetest #dogtest

♬ оригинальный звук – turpal.439

A smoke detector’s low battery chirp might seem like a tiny sound to us, but dogs can hear frequencies humans can’t and may react strongly to sudden or unfamiliar noises.

Some dogs might hide, pace, tremble, pant or try to stay close to their people when a sound scares them. If your dog regularly gets upset by beeps, alarms, fireworks or other noises, it’s worth talking to your veterinarian about ways to help them feel safer.

And obviously, if your smoke detector is chirping because the battery is low, change that sucker. Maggie should not have to live like this.

Although with ears like those, I’m pretty sure she knew the battery was getting low three days before the smoke detector did.

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Basset Hounds have a very distinct look that makes them easy to spot. Their short and stubby legs, adorably floppy ears, and deep-set eyes with droopy lower lids set them apart from their fellow four-legged friends. These precious pooches come in a variety of colors and combinations like brown and white, black and brown, and solid rust.

Dot the Basset Hound definitely stands out from the crowd thanks to her solid white coat that could make you do a double-take.

@dotthequeenb

Do you love my puppy dog eyes??? 👀 #bassethound #hounddog #petlovers #doglovers #cutepet

♬ Thats my puppy dawg – Frink

In the TikTok from @dotthequeenb, the Basset beauty stared into the camera as she relaxed on her couch. Being in the spotlight seemed to come naturally for Dot, where she looked completely comfortable being the center of attention.

Dot may be used to making heads turn because very few Basset Hounds have a snowy white coat like hers. The canine cutie’s velvety, cloud-like fur gave her an almost storybook-like appearance. While Dot’s physique and facial features were trademark Basset Hound, her cottony coloring was definitely unique.

Dot’s adorable pink nose with a dark splotch just added to her charm, along with her pink-rimmed eyes that seemed to gaze into your soul. Other posts on the social media account featured Dot’s penchant for fashion, where she modeled various stylish outfits, hats, and sunglasses.

What Is Vitiligo?

According to her TikTok profile, Dot’s pure white fur and pigmentation are caused by vitiligo. This condition causes the skin to lose its natural pigments, where the affected areas turn white or light pink, and the hair that grows from the area also turns white. 

Vitiligo can affects specific areas on the dog’s body, including: 

• Gums and lips 
• Eyelids 
• Eyelashes 
• Skin of the nose 
• Ear flaps 
• Muzzle

Related: Blind Basset Hound Who ‘Thinks She’s Begging’ Is the Cutest Thing We’ve Ever Seen

In Dot’s case, her entire body was impacted, hence her unique coloring. Some breeds are predisposed to vitiligo, such as Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, Dachshunds, German Shepherds, and Collies. The condition typically develops when a dog is about 2 years old, though it can happen earlier.

Vitiligo is considered harmless and doesn’t require any specific treatment. Dogs with vitiligo are more susceptible to damage from the sun, so pet parents should use dog-specific sunscreen to protect their skin.

Dot definitely wears her milky-white fur well and seems to enjoy being a show-stopper.

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These Staffordshire Bull Terrier (aka Staffy) puppies might be small, but their newly found voices are mighty. They have thoughts, ok? And they can finally share them, albeit in squeaky, pterodactyl yips and yowls. They are beyond cute, and I, for one, could listen to them bark all day (well, at least for a while).

@izythestaffy

Our Staffy Puppies Found Their Voices Overnight 😂🐾 #puppybark #funnypup #staffypup #cutepuppies #puppies

♬ original sound – Izy Staffy Wolfpack

To me, they look like a group of little old ladies complaining to one another about this or that. Viewers, however, agree that the members of this tiny “wolfpack” remind them more of “feisty,” “angry,” and “sassy” potatoes. If so, these spuds are just getting started.

One viewer in particular offers an amusing explanation for their behavior: “I like to think that this starts with just one of them discovering they can make a noise, then another one thinks, “Hmm, I wonder if I can do that….OH HELL YES I CAN!!” Then it’s just a whole domino effect until they’re all at it, yet none of them know why, other than they just can.”

Related: Tiny Cocker Spaniel-Shar Pei Mix Puppy Has the Face of a Little Black Bear

At What Age Do Puppies Start to Bark?

While this take has merit, puppies bark because of physical and mental development, not peer pressure.

Puppies are born deaf, blind, and essentially silent. Around three to four weeks, their senses come online, and the first noises arrive—tiny coos and whimpers, mostly to tell mom where they are and how they’re doing. Real barking usually turns up around 7-8 weeks, and it almost always debuts during play with littermates. This means that a whole litter like this one finding their voices at once isn’t a coincidence. That’s the developmental window doing exactly what it does.

They don’t have to be taught, either. Dogs are likely born knowing how to bark — it’s standard evolutionary equipment — but the particular style gets picked up by copying mom and siblings. Puppies raised around other dogs often start earlier, and a quiet mother tends to produce quiet puppies.

Some dogs (not these, clearly) don’t have much to say, and that’s fine too. Certain breeds like Basenjis and Chow Chows barely bark at all, and plenty of individual dogs are calm by nature. But if a newly chatty, vociferous puppy seems uncharacteristically quiet, veterinarian Dr. Jamie Whittenburg notes it’s worth seeking medical attention if the sudden silence is accompanied by symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite.

Related: Tuxedo Cats’ ‘Intense’ Fight Is One for the Record Books: ‘That Video Should Have a Warning’

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I really do not need TikTok showing me any more Maine Coon kittens because I already have one Maine Coon. I know how this ends. They get huge and take over your house, and somehow you still want another one. But this little split face Maine Coon kitten has swirly brown, cream and beige fur and looks like someone mixed caramel and toffee together and then added four paws.

And the funny part is this kitten isn’t even DOING anything. She’s just lounging on a fluffy white cat bed looking delicious. That’s it. She’s literally just lying there. Apparently looking like a fancy piece of candy is enough.

@user9445091816025

Double-pupiled kitty, love it love it #catsappearance showlevelmaine…

♬ original sound – scarlett

The adorable clip was shared by the TikTok account @user9445091816025.

Look at her FACE.

One side has this gorgeous brown coloring around her eye and ear while the rest of her coat is a whole mixture of cream, beige, and caramel brown.

She’s a tiny tiramisu.

A caramel latte with whiskers.

Related: White Maine Coon Kitten Is Basically a Marshmallow With Paws

One of those expensive little chocolates where you don’t know what’s inside but you eat it anyway because it looks fancy.

And because she’s a Maine Coon kitten, we also know there is a very good chance this tiny fluffy dessert is eventually going to become a very LARGE fluffy dessert.

I have Meatball. I know the process.

One day you have an adorable little kitten, and then you blink and there is a 20-pound furry monster blocking the hallway.

Why Do Some Cats Have Split Face Coloring? @jessinicoll

Its hard to get work dont with this lovebug hangin on. 😻 #catsoftiktok #cat #cats #splitface #twoface #chimera #chimeracat #shinx #kittensoftiktok #kitten #kittens

♬ Wouldn’t It Be Nice – The Beach Boys

That dramatic split-face look can happen when different coat colors and patterns develop across a cat’s face, sometimes creating an incredibly sharp looking divide.

You can see especially striking versions of it in tortoiseshell and calico cats, where patches of different colors can land on opposite sides of the face. The exact pattern is determined as the coat develops, which is why every cat can end up with her own completely unique arrangement of colors.

And this girl’s coloring really did show up ready to WORK.

Brown around one eye.

Cream and beige everywhere else.

Little caramel swirls thrown in because apparently we needed dessert.

I would like to say I’m strong enough to watch a kitten like this and simply admire her before continuing with my day.

I’m not.

My brain is already doing that thing where it whispers, “You don’t have a caramel one.”

STOP IT. I have enough cats.

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I have seen a lot of cats making biscuits, but I have never seen one look quite this much like a tiny middle-aged man who has been working at the biscuit factory since 1987. This black and white Devon Rex cat has a little patch of fur on top of his head that looks exactly like a toupee, another patch under his nose that looks like a mustache, and apparently a VERY demanding job.

Because this man is WORKING. He is lying on a bed furiously making biscuits like there are 400 orders backed up and management has already told him nobody is going home until they’re done.

@thekittygogi

he makes $2.13 per hour 🙁 #cat #devonrex #gogicat

♬ Club Penguin Pizza Parlor – Cozy Penguin

The hilarious clip was shared by the TikTok account @thekittygogi. LOOK AT HIM.

He’s got the toupee.

He’s got the mustache.

He’s got the angry little face.

All he needs is a cigarette hanging out of his mouth and somebody yelling that table seven is still waiting on their biscuits.

Related: Rare Calico Sphynx Cat Tries to Knead Baby Into a Tiny Bald Biscuit

One person in the comments wrote, “He needs a day off. He’s balding already.”

PLEASE. 😂

Someone else said, “The stress of baking is causing his hairline to recede! I’m calling corporate!”

Apparently everyone sees the same tiny exhausted French baker I do because another person simply commented, “He looks so French.”

He really does.

I feel like his name should be Pierre, and he is absolutely sick of your nonsense.

Why Do Cats Make Biscuits? @natalie_12392

#catsoftiktok

♬ original sound – 🐉ℕ𝕒𝕥𝕒𝕝𝕚𝕖🌈

Making biscuits, or kneading, is a completely normal cat behavior that starts when they’re kittens. Kittens knead around their mother’s belly while nursing, and many cats continue doing it when they’re adults.

Adult cats may knead when they’re comfortable, getting ready to sleep, or just feeling especially happy and relaxed. Some purr while they do it, and others really get into the job.

And then there’s this guy.

Someone called what he’s doing “intense biscuiting,” while another said he’s “clocked in for angry work.”

That’s it.

He’s not kneading.

He’s on the clock.

And judging by that hairline, the biscuit factory has been VERY stressful lately.

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