Parade Pets

Cat people have a particular weakness for anything that turns an ordinary household object into feline-themed decor. Luckily, with Halloween just around the corner, cat decorations are some of the most popular items. After all, black cats and Halloween go hand in hand.

If your house smells like pumpkin spice and looks like a cat runs the place, this cat-shaped candle from Aldi was made for you.

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The Kirkton House Carved Wood Candle, shaped like a black cat, is part of Aldi’s 2026 seasonal drop. The multi-wick candle poured directly into a solid piece of carved wood shaped like a cat silhouette is more than a candle.

Once the wax burns down, the cat-shaped wooden tray remains for years of use.

The candle can be placed on a console table near your front door. This way, it becomes the first thing guests see and smell when they walk in. Or you can pair it with a few mini pumpkins or a black linen table runner for a simple Halloween vignette.

Related: Target Just Dropped an Adorable $5 Halloween Snack Your Dog Will Love

On a mantle, it works as a centerpiece you can surround with pillar candles. The carved wood texture provides a nice contrast with glass and metal holders.

For cat people looking for the full Halloween experience, set the candle near your cat’s favorite perch or window seat. Light it in the evening while your cat watches from their spot. Now that’s a social media photo worth taking.

There is something satisfying about finding a seasonal piece that aligns with your life philosophy. This candle strikes the perfect balance. It is a little spooky and playful, shaped like a cat. What more can you ask for?

Right now, the only question left asking is whether the candle looks too cute to burn.

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

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With fall weather on the horizon, that means spooky season is right around the corner. And while there’s still plenty of time between now and Halloween, that doesn’t mean you can’t start acquiring some appropriately themed things. 

That’s where Target comes in with the Bark Bat Super Chewer Dog Animal Toy. Sporting an hauntingly-cute design that’s built to withstand even the toughest of chewers, this $14 playtime essential is a must-have in any pet household. New to Target and likely to be a hit with fans, you’ll want to snatch this one up fast before it’s gone.

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Target

Here just in time to kickstart a Halloween refresh at home, the Bark Bat Super Chewer toy takes on the shape of a cute yet menacing bat, complete with multiple gnaw-friendly textures and a satisfying chew. Ideal for dogs who have no chill, this tough nylon toy is shaped for easy grabbing, gripping and chewing, making it a fitting addition to any Halloween haul.

At $13.99, this Target new arrival comes backed by the Bark name, adding another durable, fan-favorite option to the brand’s popular line of dog toys. And not only is it meant to benefit the real serious chewers of the pack, it also features a bacon scent to help induce a little more playful mania as Halloween approaches.

Related: This New York Times Best Furniture Crate Winner Looks Right at Home With Minimalist and Boho Decor

Target

Ideal for large dog breeds but likely just as fun for medium-sized dogs as well, the toy features a 5.62 inch wingspan and a 1.97 inch-wide body, with an overall weight of just over half a pound. Even better, it’s top-rack dishwasher-safe and easy to spot-clean, so you’ll have no problem wiping away dirt, slobber or whatever else your pup manages to get into throughout the day.

Don’t miss out on this extra gnawsome find. Not only is it a fun playtime solution, it’s also a great training tool, anxiety aid, road trip essential or boredom bust. It’s guaranteed to last a long time and present a serious challenge for those who step to the plate. 

While you’re at it, take a peek at Target’s new $5 Halloween dog snacks and $15 pumpkin sweater for more spooky season must-haves.

Related: Target’s New $5 Dog Toy Is Bringing Spooky Fun to Playtime

We know this black Maine Coon kitten is quite adorable, but as the kids say today, she’s also a little bit “extra.”

This kitten, named Jessie, is literally “extra” because she has six toes on her front paws and seven on her back paws, making this small cat appear to have quite large feet.

The extra paws on this polydactyl Maine Coon kitten actually make her feet look like they were put on backward!

The internet can’t get enough of this tiny cat with extra toes!

Jessie has 6 toes on her front paws and 7 toes on her back paws. Polydactyl gene is Maine Coons is naturally occurring. Isn’t she just precious. #polydactyl #blackcats #mainecoonsoftiktok

Someone in the comments section even called her “Little Bigfoot!”

Others pointed out how having all those extra appendages could be quite the advantage.

“Adorable! Extra claws for scratching,” one person noted.

Another said, “Awwww, lil’ cutie pie! Just more toe beans to make biscuits with.”

Others just adored how special this polydactyl Maine Coon kitten was with her “unique feet.” “Bonus beans.”

Related: Calico Maine Coon Kitten’s Perfectly White Face Is Giving Powdered Donut

So what makes polydactyl cats so special?

First, polydactyl kitties have an extra toe or toes (in Jessie’s case).

These extra toes are the result of a genetic mutation and are on the outside of the paws (postaxial), on the inside (preaxial), or a combination of both (mesoaxial).

The mutation is harmless to the cats, but may require some extra paw maintenance and grooming.

According to The Spruce Pets, you see this mutation most commonly with Maine Coon cats, but it can happen with other breeds as well.

As people joked in the comments, Jessie may have some advantages with her extra-big paws, but that’s actually accurate.

Polydactyl cats can have some advantages with these bonus toes.

With wider paws, these special kitties can balance and climb better, as well as hunt and capture smaller animals more easily (but if they’re domesticated, they don’t need to take advantage of those benefits).

And of course, they can make biscuits faster!

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There are some pretty iconic pop culture cats who everyone knows by name. The Lion King‘s leading character, Simba, is probably one of the most famous, inspiring many pet parents to name their kitties after the little lion.

Now, there’s a new future famous feline coming through, a Savannah cat, whose uncanny resemblance to Simba will have you doing a double take:

Stunning 🤩 💕. #SavannahKittens #SavannahKittens #SavannahCat #CatLovers #SavannahCats

The TikTok video, shared by TICA-registered Savannah cat and Bengal cat breeder, @savannahkittenforadoptio, shows a real-life Simba lookalike, and he couldn’t be any more perfect. That cream and tangerine-tinted coat that’s covered in black polka-dot speckles gives this kitten a one-up on your everyday domestic kitties.

If you’ve not seen one of these cool cats as pets before, it depends on what generation they are, grouped as F1 to F5, and not every generation is legal in some states. F1 cats are rare, first-generation, half Serval, which gives them a more exotic look and a slightly more feral disposition. They can cost a pretty penny, too, at upward of $20,000 for certain coat colors, like silver.

Related: Ultra-Rare Silver Kittens Worth $20k Are the Most Gorgeous Jewelry Inspiration

Later generations like F4 or F5 are more cat-like in size, and their temperaments are easier to breed. Though, they’re still a rarity in the U.S., and even “small” Savannah cats can grow to be 20 pounds!

As amazing as these cats are, they get even cuter. Take a look at what one of these kittens looks like as an itty-bitty baby:

This is miracle 💕 🐾. #SavannahKittens #SavannahCat #CatLovers #ExoticPets #CuteAnimals

If you can ignore the very obvious gorgeousness of a Savannah cat’s coat, you’ll find that these hybrid felines—a cross between a domestic house cat and a wild African Serval—have unique and interesting temperaments and personalities.

Having those wild roots contributes to their high-energy, curious, and athletic traits, but it’s their extremely high intelligence that’s most impressive. Savannah cats look like cheetahs or mini tigers, but they’re smart enough to solve puzzles at a rapid pace and often exhibit dog-like behaviors like playing fetch or learning to walk on a leash.

Savannahs are a special type of companion not suited for every household. But even if these pretty kitties aren’t the ideal pet for everyone, they sure are beautiful to look at!

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When I think Cockatoo, I am certainly not thinking, “clean, respectful companion.” If you are, maybe try thinking, “little feathered three-year-old with no impulse control and, additionally, a weapon attached to their face.” I love them to death, but they are definitely not for the faint of heart.

Take this Cockatoo for example. His name is Calvin, and one thing about him: he likes to be up with the sun. If that’s not enough to tell you everything you need to know about him, you should also know that he loves to turn his breakfast into confetti:

Calvin celebrates breakfast time with pellet confetti! 🎊🎉 Check out our bio to visit our website! Learn more about tours, how to volunteer, and where to donate! #parrot #parrotsoftiktok #birdtok #cockatoo #febs

In Calvin’s defense, the breakfast provided by the Florida Exotic Bird Sanctuary looks extremely throwable. Those seeds are practically begging to be made into confetti. All he did was grant their wish! He does this all the time, so most likely, they had a broom handy anyway!

Calvin is just one of many Cockatoos at the sanctuary, and though exactly what his story is is unclear, he’s definitely one of the silliest parrots there. They know him well enough to know that he turns everything, even his boring breakfast time, into a party. It’s one of his favorite ways to greet them.

Related: Cockatoos Playing ‘Tug of War’ Over Their Favorite Blanket Are Just Like Puppies

The Cockatoos at this sanctuary are all a little crazy, as most Cockatoos are. There’s one who lives just a few cages down from Calvin who’s actually convinced that they’re all secretly chickens:

If Malley thinks we’re chickens, then we’re chickens! 🐓 Check out our bio to visit our website! Learn more about tours, how to volunteer, and where to donate! #parrot #parrotsoftiktok #birdtok #cockatoo #febs

I mean, I kind of see where she’s coming from. I have never seen the Cockatoos from FEBS and a chicken in the same room! I bet there’s a reason for that, and not just that the sanctuary doesn’t take in chickens!

If you think Calvin is the only Cockatoo who’s ever thrown things at his loved ones, you’re mistaken. Throwing things is basically woven into a Cockatoo’s DNA. It’s one of the things they’re best at, even if they don’t have hands.

Vinod Sharma / 500px / Getty Images

There are a ton of reasons why your Cockatoo might be throwing things. All Cockatoos do it, and it’s definitely not a super alarming behavior, even if it is a little annoying. Most of the time, Cockatoos are throwing things because they’re:

• Bored.
• Annoyed.
• Seeking attention.
• Trying to assert dominance.

It can be messy, so you’re probably going to want to keep a tarp or seed netting on the floor around their cage. Luckily for Calvin, though, it all goes straight to the floor!

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I’ve seen dogs with eyebrows, mustaches, and expressions that could win an argument without making a sound, but Duke’s beard is operating on an entirely different level.

Duke, better known as Drama Duke on TikTok, looks like someone crossed a dog with an old Civil War colonel, a slightly irritated wizard, and one of the wonderfully strange Muppets wandering around Labyrinth.

And somehow, it works.

#problemsolved

The beard is the first thing I notice. It hangs around his muzzle in a way that looks suspiciously human, giving Duke the permanent expression of a man who has just been informed that the general store is out of coffee.

Then there are the eyes.

Duke always seems mildly disappointed in whatever is happening around him. Not furious. Just deeply unconvinced. Like he’s already explained this problem twice, and can’t believe we’re discussing it again.

#eyes

Naturally, I needed to know what kind of dog produces this masterpiece.

The answer makes things even better: Duke is 50% Poodle, 25% Alaskan Malamute, and 25% German Shepherd.

Suddenly, the facial hair makes more sense. The rest of him still feels like he should be carrying a tiny staff and sending someone on a quest.

His followers are understandably obsessed. One viewer couldn’t get over how cute he is. Another took one look at the face and identified a “little troublemaker.”

Daycare is not open, you hsve to wait!!

Duke’s human confirmed the accusation.

Apparently, the grumpy-old-man appearance should not be mistaken for quiet retirement. There is mischief happening behind the beard.

I think that makes him even better.

#bigboy

Some dogs look permanently joyful, others appear surprised by life, and then there’s Duke, who looks like he has witnessed generations make the same mistakes and is tired of offering advice.

I would trust him with an ancient prophecy immediately.

I would not, however, leave my snacks unattended around him.

#people

If you’ve ever sworn your dog looks like a grumpy grandpa or your cat is giving you a judgmental human stare, your brain is doing something very normal. Research indexed by PubMed shows that people focus on familiar facial features like the eyes, nose, and mouth when looking at animal faces, and studies of the human-animal bond suggest those facial cues shape how we perceive our pets.

That can make Duke’s beard and expressions feel hilariously human.

• We look at the eyes first. They’re one of the strongest cues our brains use when reading a face.
• Familiar shapes invite comparisons. Beards, eyebrows, and expressive mouths can remind us of people we know.
• Personality fills the rest. Once you know your pet’s habits, it becomes almost impossible not to “hear” what certain looks are saying.

Duke may technically be a Poodle mix, but I remain convinced there’s at least 10% grumpy wizard in there.

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Related: Rare Mammoth-Sized Dog Who’s Worth Thousands Looks Like the Cowardly Lion

When you have one pet, the urge to get another can be tough to resist. Their cute faces and sweet demeanor compel pet parents to visit shelters to adopt another furry friend. Luckily, when you get your second pet, the two can bond together by sleeping or playing with one another. One new duo is forming their bond through the latter in a precious way.

A Bernese Mountain Dog named Boots is going viral on Instagram for his antics with the family’s new Bengal kitten. In the video, Boots steers playtime while the kitten follows his lead, and it’s just too stinking cute! It’s no surprise the two are becoming fast friends. No one can get enough of them!

Awww, how sweet! In the clip, Boots is holding a cat wand in his mouth, with the toy dangling above the kitten. As Boots prances about and swings his head around, the kitten chases the toy at the end of the wand. They have the most perfect arrangement!

People in the comments love the bond that these two are growing. One person said, “I’ve never seen a dog play with a cat like this,” while another commented, “My cats need a Boots, they just don’t know it yet.”

Other viewers were enamored by these pets. One person in the comments mentioned, “Aaawwwww! I love this, how sweet!” Another said, “How darling! We could watch this on loop!”

There’s no surprise that Boots and his kitten have gained some new fans from the video. They’re changing what it means for a cat and dog to play together!

Everyone who adopts a new pet wants nothing more than for them to get along with their other pets. While this partly depends on the animals themselves, there are a few things pet parents can do to help their dogs and cats get along.

The first step in a dog and cat introduction is to keep them separated initially. For the first few days, you’ll want to put your cat and dog in separate rooms to prevent too much of a shock at the new presence.

Related: Gentle Bernese Mountain Dog Decides a Tiny, Lost Orange Kitten Is His New Best Friend

To acclimate them during this time, swap scents, such as blankets and bedding, so they can get used to each other’s smell without the stress of a face-to-face meeting. You should also feed them on opposite sides of a closed door, so they link each other’s presence with a positive feeling.

After a few days, it will be time to introduce your fur babies. Tire out your dog with a walk or fetch beforehand so they have less nervous energy during the introduction.

To start off, use a gate or put the dog on a leash so they can see each other safely without initiating contact. Keep these first few meetings short and sweet, and be sure to reward good behavior with treats and praise when the meeting goes well.

In the following weeks, make sure both your cat and dog have safe zones to retreat to if interactions get too overwhelming. For a cat, this can be a high shelf or a tall cat tree; for a dog, this could be a comfortable space in the backyard or another room.

Be sure to supervise their interactions until you’re sure they trust each other. Lastly, feed the dog and cat separately to prevent resource guarding and fights.

By following these tips, you can develop a relationship between your cat and dog, just like Boots with his Bengal kitten!

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There is no one in the world I love more than a successful animal foster parent. I don’t think that would be for me, personally: I know myself, and I get way too attached to everything to not foster fail. It would be doing these animals a disservice. But, my favorite pastime is watching other people succeed at it!

Recently, one rockstar foster mom brought home a new litter of kittens for her resident cat to take care of. Not every pet will be super happy about the addition of foster pets to their home, but I think it’s safe to say this mama cat was totally cool with it:

Now that the foster kittens are healthy, it is time to start the introductions to the kitties. Knowing Poppy has been chomping at the bit to meet them, we started with her. Lieutenant Dan was a little jealous, but Poppy and Dolly were in heaven. ❤️ #cat #cats #catsoftiktok #kitten #kittens

The Soccer Cat Mom’s house is the place to be if you’ve got four fluffy paws and are in need of a landing pad. These kittens are so lucky: not only is their human caretaker incredibly competent, but she has a cat who loves to play Mama to any kittens she comes across!

Her name is Poppy, and she’s a seasoned mama and big-sister figure to a ton of cats. Her mom has brought home kittens before, and she wastes no time jumping in to help care for them. These kinds of things are always sort of “all paws on deck!”

Related: ‘Identical Twin’ Shelter Cat Brothers Prove Just How Bonded They Are

One of Poppy’s first experiences was with a kitten who can’t really use her back legs. Her mom nicknamed her Lieutenant Dan, and this girl is here to stay. She and Poppy are meant to be best friends forever. If you don’t believe me, just watch:

We may have some tuxedo best friends in the house. It was pretty cute watching Lieutenant Dan look through all of the nooks and crannies in order to find our foster kitten Dolly. They are quite the cute little pair. 🖤🩶 #kitten #cat #cats #catsoftiktok #kitty

Yes, Lieutenant Dan is a girl, and yes, she is wearing a diaper. What an icon! She might not have use of her back legs, but she’s still so fast! I am in awe of her.

The kittens in this house were lucky. Her cats had been through it several times before, so they knew what to expect, and she knew how they’d react. Especially Poppy. In the first video’s captions, she mentions still having to make introductions between the kittens and Lieutenant Dan!

Natalia Plankina / Getty Images

Even if you’re introducing the most docile kittens to the best-seasoned cat in the world, you still need to be careful. Things can change on a dime, and when you’re bringing home new kittens (foster or not), you should always:

• Make sure they have clearance from the vet (stray kittens in particular can carry parasites or communicable diseases).
• Start with short, supervised visits between the cat and the kittens.
• Watch for signs of agitation and discomfort.
• Immediately remove the kittens when the cat shows signs of having enough.

It might seem tedious, and it definitely will take more time than just throwing them together and letting them figure it out. However, you’re setting them up for success! Just look at Poppy and her kittens, who will totally love each other forever! Good luck, kittens!

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Ragdoll cats are known for their incredible beauty, thanks to their stunning, fluffy coats and beautiful, striking eyes. When you add in their typical, laid-back personalities, you quickly learn why Ragdolls are as popular as they are. But there’s a rare coat color that takes this beauty in a completely new direction. 

In this video, we meet a rare Ragdoll cat who has this unique coat color that’s absolutely stunning, and he 100% knows he’s striking. His confidence adds to his already mesmerizing vibe, and it’s impossible to ignore. Take a look!

bubba has been getting a lot of cat napping threats…… #fyp #ragdoll #kitten #cinnamon #bubbatheragdoll

TikTok user Bubba (@bubbatheragdoll) shared a video of a very cute Ragdoll cat named Bubba. He’s already adorable because he’s a Ragdoll, but he’s also a rare cinnamon Ragdoll. This means his fur is just as fluffy and soft as a typical Ragdoll kitty, but instead of a cream or tan-colored coat, he’s brown, like a toasty cinnamon color.

Bubba’s eyes, which are the typical Ragdoll’s bright, ocean-colored blue eyes, stand out against his darker brown coat, taking his cuteness to a whole new level. He knows he’s beautiful, and if he didn’t, the thousands of comments left for him on this video would for sure convince him. 

Related: Devon Rex Cat and Poodle Prove the Best Friendships Come Unexpectedly

One person wrote, “Brown cats are so rare. I swear, I’ve never seen one in real life. They’re so cute.”

Another shared, “I have 5 cats, and I’ve seen a lot of cats in person and on TikTok, but seeing a brown cat is extremely rare! So beautiful.”

Someone else added, “I have always wanted a brown kitty! Bubba is my dream cat! (I will pretend he’s mine!) He is beautiful!”

Other comments included, “My dog wouldn’t mind if I got a cat, right?” “This would be worth the allergies,” “Cats got the good stuff,” “I can’t explain it, but this is the cat version of my dog,” “One of the cutest cats on this planet,” and “Me and my granny loved brown cats.”

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Bubba is undeniably adorable, and it’s no surprise that some of that charm is attributed to his unique looks. But what makes the cinnamon coloring in cats such a big deal? Well, they’re rare!

According to Cats.com, cinnamon coats are one of the rare colors in cats, with their fur that’s a warm, light brown. Cats.com explains that this happens when the kitty has “two copies of the recessive allele for black (b1/b1),” which means both Mom and Dad cat have to have the recessive allele, too, and this doesn’t happen often. 

Some cat breeds that are more likely to have the cinnamon color, like the Ragdoll cat above, include the Oriental Shorthair, British Shorthair, Abyssinian, and Ocicat. Seeing how rare the cinnamon coat is, there’s no question why sweet Bubba is so beloved on social media!

Senior dogs in shelters have less chance of adoption than younger dogs. Potential pet parents hesitate to bring home an older dog due to possible health issues, lower energy level, and limited life span. Yet these canines bring so much love and gratitude to everyone they meet.

Lara is a 13-year-old Pit Bull mix and currently the oldest resident at the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue. The precious pooch has a heart of gold and longs for a family of her own.

13 and homeless 💔 Lara is looking for love again after entering the shelter through no fault of her own. Lara is friendly with kids and other dogs. She is a gentle soul looking for a soft place to land 🛋️ Lara’s ideal day includes sleeping in late, getting some fresh air and sunshine, and cuddling up with her future family. Lara is an active seior – she even attends playgroups with other dogs in the shelter. We have hope that Lara’s golden years will be her best yet 💛 Meet her at… 📍Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League West Palm Beach, FL #seniorrescuedog #rescuedog #animalrescue

In the TikTok from @peggyadamsarl, Lara stared into the camera with a sad look on her face yet still wagged her tail. Her eyes and demeanor radiated a gentle spirit.

“Lara is looking for love again after entering the shelter through no fault of her own,” the caption shared, with the on-screen text noting, “Lara is so gentle. She knows commands and is easy to walk. The only thing missing is a family to love.”

The canine cutie has a sweet and loving personality, along with a fun and affectionate disposition.

“Lara is friendly with kids and other dogs,” the story continued. “Lara’s ideal day includes sleeping in late, getting some fresh air and sunshine, and cuddling up with her future family.”

Described as an “active senior”, Lara is a frequent member of the shelter’s regular playgroups where she gets in her social time with her furry friends.

I’ve always had a heart for senior dogs. They exude love and gratitude to everyone they meet. While many opt for younger canines or understandably adorable puppies, there are many reasons to consider a senior, including:

Related: Street Dog Once ‘Terrified of Everything’ Has Incredible Transformation After Rescue — and Gets Life-Changing News

• Calmer behavior: Senior dogs typically have more easygoing energy levels and fewer destructive behaviors.
• Easier training: They often know basic commands like sit and stay, and are housebroken.
• Predictable personality: They have reached full adulthood, meaning, what you see is what you get.
• Gratitude and bonding: Senior dogs form strong emotional bonds with adopters who give them a forever home.
• Less demanding than puppies: Older pooches require much less time for training and supervision.

Hopefully, someone will soon open their heart to Lara and give her the happiness she deserves.

For more information on Lara or the Peggy Adams Animal Rescue, visit their website.

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The shelter is not an easy place to be. No matter how hard shelter staff work to keep the animals feeling happy and comforted, there’s just nothing that can replace the feeling of being in a loving home with a family that cares about you. Even the most outgoing dog can sometimes completely shut down in a shelter.

One shelter dog was having an especially tough time living the shelter life. He was sad, confused, and most importantly, lonely. It was no surprise that he needed a friend, and when he finally got one, he was completely overjoyed:

I love being a friend to a shelter dog while they wait 🥹💛 Prince Erik from Austin Pets Alive! 💛💛💛 #shelterdog #germanshepherdmix #austintexas #austinpetsalive

Chelcee Blaine is so kind for being a friend to this shelter pup. The rest of the shelter staff try their best to make time for every dog, but there aren’t enough hours in a day for every dog in an understaffed shelter to get what they need.

Chelcee works with Austin Pets Alive!, an animal shelter in Austin, Texas. She does my favorite thing a lot of shelters do these days: posts many of the adorable, adoptable pets on TikTok. Every view on these videos is another potential adopter, after all! You just never know until you try.

Related: Devastated Shelter Pup Was ‘Obviously Someone’s Baby’ and Had Hearts Breaking

His name is Prince Erik. He’s a German Shepherd mix who, clearly, is super outgoing. He’s no longer listed on the Austin Pets Alive! website, which means that this sweet man was adopted! Everybody cheer! Don’t worry, though, there are still plenty of pups there who need loving forever homes:

Mr Peanuts is a big pizza fan #shelterdog #austinpetsalive #pizzareview

Mr. Peanuts, whose pizza review is seriously giving Dave Portnoy a run for his money, is currently available at APA! If you have any interest, you can read more about him and even set up an appointment to meet! He’s about two years old and currently in a foster home.

Prince Erik is not the only shelter dog in the world who needs a friend… Not even close. In fact, every single one of them could use someone in their corner, and if you can help in any way, please do! Luckily, there are so many ways to get involved with animal shelters.

Evgenii Bakhchev / Shutterstock.com

There’s a way for just about everyone to get involved with shelter dogs (or cats, birds, and literally any other pet). You can do things like:

• Foster at-risk pets.
• Volunteer for a few hours a week at your local shelter.
• Volunteer with local trap, neuter, release programs in your area.
• Make cash donations directly.
• Sponsor an animal you feel connected to but can’t adopt.
• Make donations of physical items the shelter is in need of.

They’ll be grateful to have anything you have to offer them, of course, but I recommend calling and asking what they actually need. Additionally, a lot of shelters have Amazon or Chewy wishlists right on their website. In Prince Erik’s case, luckily, all of his wishes came true!

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The Maine Coon is one of the most beautiful cat breeds to ever exist. With so many fur color and pattern combos, some of these kitties can look like movie characters. Right now, there’s one litter of Maine Coon kittens colored in a spectacular blend of black and silver smoke that, with their fluffy features and woolly ears and tails, look like a crew of cute wolverines.

I didn’t expect that look from Constance so now I’m starting to think we gave the right names to the wrong girls from Gummy’s bunch! #mainecoon #blackcats #kittensoftiktok #catsoftiktok #mainecoonkitten

Tasselears Cattery always has the most gorgeous Maine Coons to show off, but this particular crew from Maine Coon mom, Gummy, is something from a horror flick (and I’m in love)! The smoldering look of deeply pigmented black smoke blended with lighter, faded silver hues makes these kittens absolute stunners.

The six-pack of cutie-pies includes D’Artagnan, Athos, Porthos, Aramis, Milady, and last but definitely not least, the villainous Constance. If ever there was one expression that could put fear into the souls of men, Constance nailed it.

Note to self: Stay on her good side, just in case.

Related: Rare Tortie Smoke European Maine Coon Kitten Looks Like She’s Wearing a Wet Suit

Not only are these kittens beautiful, but they have the coolest temperament to boot. Like most Maine Coons, the young, cuddly kitten crew has a lot of energy to burn. But once they achieve their desired level of playtime, they settle right into chilling out, taking a snooze, or showing off all their pretty colors for the camera.

Whatever they’re doing, Gummy’s already figured out the best way to parent the tiny wolf-hybrid-looking rascals at this age is to do nothing while they wear themselves out. #relatableparentinghack

Mom Gummy looks after Honey’s bunch and her own. It seems she’s figured out that the best way to control these little rascals is to do absolutely nothing. #mainecoon #kittensoftiktok #catsoftiktok #meow #mainecoonworld

There’s good reason many smoke-colored Maine Coons are compared to wolves, wolverines, and even fluffy werewolves. Each little kitty has their own personality, but any one of them could give anyone wandering the woods at night a good scare!

As if Maine Coons aren’t majestic enough, their variety of colors, particularly smoke, comes in some gorgeous combos. Led by their silver inhibitor gene, which determines how much pigment goes where (or doesn’t go), the main pairings result in black, blue, red, cream, Tortoiseshell, and Blue Tortie smoke.

Catteries like Tasselears specialize in the smoke category, with her kittens generally sporting black hair with a deep silver or white undercoat, or vice versa. Once you add the pattern varieties like Tortie, Tabby, Solid, and Bicolor to base colors, things get wild in the gene pool. Obviously, to produce cats of this level, they must have fierce-looking parents (and they do).

The Gummy litter may have some growing to do, but so far, they’re already showstoppers. By this time next year, they’ll have reached peak wolverine!

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Some cats with extra fluffy coats get professionally groomed so their fur stays healthy and free of mats. Persians, Ragdolls, and Himalayans benefit from a day at the salon every now and then to keep those luscious locks in top shape.

This black Maine Coon cat recently went for his regular haircut appointment and left with what looks like some fancy footwear.

I asked them not to shave his feet 😂😂 now he has lil fur boots #bootswiththefur #mainecoonsoftiktok #wolfiethemainecoon #fyp

In the TikTok from @a.hawk.00, the pretty kitty was a bit far from view, though you could tell he had an impressively cloud-like coat. As he walked toward the camera, he seemed to be wearing some high-end, over-the-knee woolly boots on each foot.

“Your cat got groomed and has ‘boots’,” the on-screen text shared, with the caption adding, “I asked them not to shave his feet — now he has lil fur boots.”

The feline fur baby was shaved everywhere except for his head, tail, and the bottom half of his legs. Between the stylish and daring new ‘do and confident strut he was showing off, this Maine Coon looked ready for the catwalk.

Followers felt the feline owned his new style and completely pulled off the contemporary coif:

• “Now that’s one fine kitty,” one remarked.
• “Well Darlin’, all you need is a little Pirate hat with the feather, and you’re ready for Halloween as Captain Morgan,” another posted.
• “Such a fashion statement. I like,” a follower raved.
• “These boots are made for walking!” someone noted.
• “I think he looks cute and he knows it,” a fan pointed out.

Cats are known for grooming themselves, yet many long-haired breeds benefit from occasionally visiting a professional groomer for a touch-up and even a haircut.

Regular professional grooming and hair trims help to remove dirt, parasites, and dead skin cells, reducing the risk of skin irritations and infections. Also, removing excess dead hair lessens the chance of hairballs, which can be hazardous to your cat if they block their intestines.

Related: Maine Coon Mom’s ‘Printer Runs Out of Ink,’ and the Resulting Kittens Are a Work of Art

Trimming the hair around your cat’s bottom helps them stay clean on trips to the bathroom and prevents skin irritation and infections around that sensitive area.

And sometimes, as this handsome Maine Coon beautifully illustrated, a new ‘do can give your cat a new sense of confidence.

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My favorite type of animal is any animal that looks like food, and one thing about me is that I can make any animal look like food if I try hard enough. I’m a foodie, okay? It’s natural to me. One of the most food-like animals, in my opinion, is definitely cats.

Just look at this new litter of Ragdoll kittens: they look like scoops of ice cream! Each of them has slightly different coloring, but that only serves to make it look like they all have different toppings. You have to see them:

Follow our Instagram @MMRagdolls to help name our next litter very soon!! #ragdolls #ragdollkittens

M&M Ragdolls have some of the cutest kittens ever. I’m obsessed with them, and in particular, these kittens. They’re hitting all the best ice cream flavors: vanilla, cookies and cream, and I definitely saw a salted caramel swirl in there somewhere.

These kittens are a few weeks old: they’re starting to walk and learn how to play! They live in the house with a bunch of other cats, where they’ll have the best time before going off to forever homes. For now, they still need their mama, and she wants to spend as much time with them as she can!

Related: Stunning ‘Split-Face’ Ragdoll Cat Looks Like the Night Sky

Their dad is… Another story. He’s not mean to them or anything. In fact, he’ll likely start spending some more time with them as they age, but he’s a little strange. He would much rather sit in bed and listen to his mom play the flute:

He comes to listen every time the flute is played 🎶 #musicalcat #432hz #nativeamericanflute

It’s kind of giving snake charmer vibes. I’ve never seen a cat be interested in music like this before, but I have to say, it’s officially one of my favorite things!

Ragdoll cats are often said to be one of the best cat breeds out there. They’re easy to pick up, easy to please, and most importantly, super cuddly. It makes sense that people would think that they’re calmer as kittens, too.

Weiquan Lin / Getty Images

Ragdoll kittens are not calmer than any other type of kitten. They’re just as hyper, curious, and spend just as much time looking for trouble as any other kitten! They’ll settle as they age, but make no mistake: Ragdoll cats remain silly and playful for their whole lives.

If your Ragdoll kitten is a little too rambunctious, though, you can try:

• Extra play before bedtime to help tire them out.
• Dedicated “cool down” time, where they go into their crate and chill.
• A cycle: play, eat, and then sleep.

If you’re careful, you can time it so that their “hunt-eat-sleep” cycle occurs at a few points throughout the day that benefit you, too. In the morning, before you need to shower, and right before bed would be a great place to start!

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Sometimes you see a dog’s face, and it’s so cute that you just want to eat it!

In the case of this rare, fluffy English Bulldog puppy named Cashew, you just want to smoosh it, as this breed has squishy faces asking for this.

Plus, considering English Bulldogs usually have short, fine coats and this one has longer, fluffy hair, we can understand the need to “smoosh.”

the cutest patootie 🥹 #rareenglishbulldogs #dogsoftiktok #ReedStoneVillage #fyp #puppy

You can imagine the level of excitement in the comments section was off the hook:

“Oh my goodness, THAT FLUFFF,” one person wrote.

Another said, “Wait… CUTEST thing I’ve seen all morning.”

Someone else commented, “Oh my goodness, what a CUTIE!!!”

Someone who was very articulate wrote, “Da smooshy faceeeeee.”

Related: English Bulldog’s Adorable ‘Sit Pretty’ Routine Gets Her Attention Every Time

We are used to English Bulldogs with short, fine hair, which is why this fluffy English Bulldog puppy is so special.

So how rare is it exactly? Quite rare, as his unique coat is the result of a recessive genetic variant linked to the FGF5 gene.

This puppy had to inherit copies of the variant, one from each parent.

The result is a longer, softer, and fluffier coat than a traditional English Bulldog, but he still has the same colors and patterns, including brindle.

This pup also has the same features as the breed’s traditional counterparts, including that adorable face, perfect for smooshing.

Breeding has to be done very carefully, which is why you don’t see many fluffy English Bulldogs available for adoption.

This rare factor has definitely put these kinds of pups in high demand, similar to their relatives, fluffy French Bulldogs, which are extremely coveted dogs.

This cute and fluffy English Bulldog puppy is from a breeding account called Reed Stone Village, which advertises breeding exotic English Bulldogs, including many fluffy ones.

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Parade Pets aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you’re looking for a reliable, comfy pair of sweatpants for the Fall weather, then don’t sleep on this Walmart deal.

These joggers are made of a lightweight material that you’ll really appreciate when you’re out jogging or walking your dog.

But even better, they have three reverse zip pockets (two in the front and one in the back) to hold your essentials, and you don’t have to worry about losing anything when your dog goes for an unexpected sprint after a squirrel.

The Sogami Athletic Sweatpants with Zipper Pockets are currently 40% off (only $17 each) at Walmart, and they come in three colors: black, gray, and navy blue. They’re available in men’s US sizes small through 3XL, with availability varying depending on the color you want. But don’t be fooled, ladies can comfortably slip into these, as well.

“The feel really nice and easy to get on,” one buyer wrote on Walmart’s website.

Courtesy of Walmart

More Dog Walking Essentials

• $17 Fruit of the Loom Fleece Hoodie Makes Chilly Fall Dog Walks Cozy
• Gap’s Playful Dog-Themed Logo Sweatshirt Is a Must-Have for Fall
• ‘Walking on Clouds’: Walmart’s Sporty Sneakers Are Perfect for Dog Walks
• JCPenney’s $9 Sweat-Wicking Shorts Keep You Cool and Comfy

These pants are made of a breathable polyester-spandex blend with 4-way stretch. The manufacturer labels them as having a sweatpant or jogger design, which means they shouldn’t look baggy or bulky when you wear them.

Check out some of the reviewers buyers, who have rated these 4.7 stars out of 5, are leaving online:

• “Great price, great pants . No more needs to be said.”
• “They fit perfectly. Very comfortable and definitely a great price.”
• “I was so pleased with the first pair, I ordered a second.”

For only $17, these sweatpants are a worthwhile deal, especially if you can take advantage of free shipping options. If you walk your dog regularly, then you definitely know how hard it can be to find comfy pants that won’t irritate or overheat you.

There’s nothing better than watching tiny kittens learn to navigate the world. The curious, wobbly stage is seriously the cutest, and it only gets cuter the more kittens there are. This is why one foster mom is living the dream when a seemingly endless group of foster kittens stumble out of what looks like a “magic portal” along the wall or maybe even a comical clown car:

Look at all my sweet foster babies!! 🐈‍⬛ 🐈 #kittensoftiktok #catsoftiktok #fosterkittens #socute #fy

The TikTok clip shared by @that.luscious.blo is a fever dream of feline energy. One by one, an impossibly large litter emerges from a hidden, sectioned-off area that really does look like “an endless portal”—and the internet can’t handle how many there are.

One, two, three… seven?! Nobody expected this many kittens to be hiding behind that sheet, not even the Tabby cat mama standing by!

Some fans joked the wobbly babies look like “drunk drivers” stumbling around after coming out of a “kitten dispenser” or even one of those circus clown cars. They just kept coming! I’d like to think the magic portal is real, like the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, but with kittens (sign me up)!

Related: 11-Month-Old Black Cat and His Tiny Foster Daughter Are the Cutest Duo We’ve Ever Seen

When the cute kitties aren’t manifesting portals, they’re doing things all adorable kittens do: play like it’s their job (because it kind of is)! These wild, chaotic, and downright darling kitties may be in their foster home temporarily, but they’re having a good old time!

#livehighlights #tiktoklive #fosterkittens #LIVEIncentiveProgram #CreatorCareerProgram

Fostering is a rewarding experience that comes with a lot of chaos and just as many laughs. Depending on the age they’re taken in, kittens might need extensive, round-the-clock care, such as bottle-feeding, keeping them warm, and closely watching their growth and weight gain before weaning them off and moving to litter training.

Fostering for even a few weeks can make a big difference in how socialized and prepared they’ll be for their forever homes because they get things a crowded shelter can’t always provide. Many shelters may also offer fosters everything needed to take kittens in, including food, litter, and medical care, so finances aren’t a barrier.

When the day comes to say goodbye, you can open your heart and home to new fosters to help quell the ache. Many shelters and rescues are always in need of foster parents, especially from spring through fall when litters like the one above are most common.

Even if you don’t have the “magic kitten portal” or funny clown car of kitties, fostering is still an awesome way to help these cuties in need.

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I’m starting the day sobbing over Chewy, the Newfoundland, because there’s something especially painful about watching a dog return to a place that still smells like someone he loved.

The video begins outside Grandma’s house. Chewy’s human needs to go inside, but Chewy has stopped on the sidewalk.

He won’t follow.

the good old days. first time i’ve ever used that phrase 💔

The clip is framed around a question people apparently ask: Did Chewy still visit Grandma’s house after she passed? He did, and this footage shows that even walking through that door seems like too much for him.

He simply refuses to cross that line, and somehow the quiet hesitation is worse.

Then the video flashes backward.

Suddenly Chewy is inside that same house, plopped right beside Grandma, like that was exactly where a giant Newfoundland belonged. The contrast is brutal. The post caption calls those memories “the good old days,” a phrase his human never expected to understand quite this deeply.

He knows exactly what she’s saying 🥹❤️

Now Grandma is gone, and the house is still there.

One commenter imagined that Chewy could still smell her everywhere, but couldn’t understand why he couldn’t find her. Another said he seemed to know the house simply wouldn’t be the same anymore.

We can’t know exactly what was going through Chewy’s mind, but his decision to stay outside feels painfully clear: Something about this familiar place had changed.

I think that’s why this video hurts so much. Dogs build their lives around routines, smells, rooms, voices, and their people. When they disappear, everything familiar can suddenly feel different.

We are not okay, but we will be 💔❤️

And knowing Grandma has since passed makes this old footage hit even harder. We’ve shared his story before, and seeing him here loving Grandma so completely feels like another piece of what made him special.

I’m right there with you, Chewy.

There are places that hold so much of someone that returning without them almost feels impossible.

Have you ever watched a dog grieve someone they loved? I have a feeling a lot of us will understand this look.

I can’t with them🥹

We don’t know whether dogs understand death the way humans do. The American Kennel Club explains in its guidance on dogs grieving their human companions that they do recognize when someone they’re bonded with is suddenly missing and may show grief-like changes in behavior.

If your dog loses someone important:

• Keep familiar routines going. Regular walks, meals, and bedtime can make life feel steadier.
• Give them comfort without forcing it. Stay close if they seek you out, but let them have quiet space, too.
• Watch for lasting changes. If eating, sleeping, anxiety, or energy changes significantly, check in with your veterinarian.

Chewy may not have understood every part of death.

But he certainly understood that Grandma wasn’t there.

Have you ever watched a pet grieve someone they loved? Tell us what they did—we’d love to remember them with you.

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Related: Newfoundland Mourning the Loss of His Grandma Gets a Surprise He Never Saw Coming

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How often does your cat try to interrupt you when you’re working on your computer? Kitties are known for wanting to get on your keyboard or waltz right in front of your face with their little kitty bums when you’re trying to work. Well, Chewy has a great deal on a special bed that will keep your cat close, but not in your way when you’re working.

The Smonter Clamp-on Foldable Cat Bed is just $46 at Chewy.

This adorable bed is designed to clamp directly to your desk, giving your cat a place to curl up and sleep that’s right next to you while you type and work on the computer. In fact, it clamps securely to numerous other surfaces too, like a dining table, nightstand, or window sill.

The dual-comfort pad is removable and comes with a machine-washable cover for easy care. It’s also reversible. One side is snuggly and plush (perfect for cooler days when your cat needs extra warmth) and the other side is a cool, breathable mesh with lots of airflow for warmer days.

When you don’t want to use the bed, just fold the perch flat or remove it. It’s perfect for bonding with your kitty, but won’t get in the way when you’re not wanting to use it.

The bed has a heavy steel frame with anti-slip pads and can support cats of up to 33 pounds. It flips down at a 90-degree angle to save space, and has a secure, ultra-grip clamp.

Courtesy of Chewy

On Chewy’s website, buyers rate this bed 4.7 out of 5 stars with 10 ratings so far. They say it’s easy to assemble and larger than they expected. They’ve also posted pictures of the bed in use, and you can see adorable photos of sweet kitties napping on it!

Check out some of the reviews:

• “There is peace in this household once again. I am no longer constantly fighting over my own desk chair… Incredibly sturdy and could fit many desk types due to the wide adjustability of the fastening knobs.”
• “This was bigger than expected which works out well for our chonky babes. Install was super easy and is easy to move around.”
• “This perch is a game changer. Since last year I have been fighting Koda for desk space, my keyboard and my mouse. Found this bed and he has given up about 80% of his desk time to the bed! Yes!”

Chewy is offering free delivery on this bed, along with free 365-day returns.

Related: Chewy’s Van Gogh Cat Bed Turns Nap Time Into a Stunning Work of Art

There are a few cats that I’ve never been able to get out of my head. I see a lot of cats every day, given what I do for a living, and most of them come and go from my brain. To stick around, you have to be really special!

The Most Special Kitten award, for me, goes to this amazing split-face Ragdoll cat. She’s just so beautiful, and every time I see her, it makes me smile! Once you get a look at her, you’ll understand exactly what I mean:

serving face, naturally 🙂‍↕️ • • • #ragdollcats #chimera #twofacecat #catsoftheday #catfluencer

Pebbles the Chimera Ragdoll looks unlike any cat I’ve ever seen in my life. Chimera cats are rare, though not impossible to find, but her incredible polka-dot face and big blue eyes are something else. Plus, her coat is so fluffy!

Pebbles is about 5 years old, and since she was a kitten, her mom knew she was special. Her face looks just like a sunset over a lake, or the two sides of the moon! The comparisons are endless. I don’t know what gods were on her mom’s side when she was looking for a cat, but she got so lucky!

Related: Ragdoll Cat ‘Stealing Kittens’ From Her Sister Is Such a Cool Aunt

Pebbles gets only the best, too. When you’re as cute as she is, you have to have cute accessories! So, naturally, she had to have a pretty purple cat tree. When she sits on it, it really brings out the blue in her eyes:

i love this cat sm #ragdollcats #chimera #twofacecat #catsoftheday #petfluencer

Will I be eternally jealous that I don’t have a cat who looks like this? Yes, but I’m so happy she’s in a home with someone who really loves her. She deserves every happiness life has to offer!

If you’re anything like me, your first thought when you saw Pebbles was something along the lines of, “I need that. Where can I get one?” Unfortunately, though getting your hands on a true Chimera is not impossible, it is hard.

Valeriia Kuznetsova / Getty Images

Chimerism occurs when two embryos fuse together into one, effectively creating a “two-in-one.” Chimera cats have split faces, opposite paws, and a continued split down their back and tail. It’s a genetic condition that is impossible to breed for, which means it only happens when it happens naturally. Because of that, these cats are:

• Rare.
• Expensive.
• Often the subject of scams.

If someone is trying to sell you a Chimera cat, demand to see genetic testing paperwork: testing is the only way to actually confirm that a cat is a Chimera. Scammers will take a standard Tortoiseshell or Calico who happens to have a split face, which is common in those breeds, and claim they’re a Chimera.

Pebbles is the real deal. I’m so obsessed with her. Hopefully, one day, I’ll find a cat just like her!

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