As pet parents, we want our cats to be happy, but sometimes our best intentions lead to unexpected hilarity. When a couple adopted a kitten to keep their lonely tabby company, they didn’t expect her icy stare of disapproval.
Shared by @toothlessandfeather on TikTok, this viral video captures the moment their cat, Feather, meets her new sibling—and it’s comedy gold. Here’s why this feline introduction went viral and how to get it right when bringing a new kitten home.
Feather’s Frosty Reception Goes Viral
In August 2025, @toothlessandfeather posted a TikTok showing their tabby tuxedo, Feather, glaring at a new black kitten with pure disdain. The overlay text reads, “Thinking our cat was lonely and deciding to get a kitten. She hates him.”
The clip, which has amassed over 707,000 views and 149,000 likes, captures Feather’s unimpressed reaction as the kitten innocently explores nearby. The caption reassures viewers, “Jokes jokes. They get along great now. But yeah, Feather misses the days of being the baby of the family.”
TikTok users couldn’t get enough of Feather’s dramatic response. Jes commented, “We thought our cat was lonely, so we got another. She barely tolerated her, at best. The second cat was desperate for affection from the first cat and was definitely lonely.
So, of course, we had to get a third cat for the second and now they’re best friends.” Zenna quipped, “Even hate is enrichment. I swear some of these cats enjoy having beef, but it will probably get better!” Allison added, “She might come around! It took my girl cat a minute but now they lovingly tolerate each other all these years later.”
Signs Your Cat Needs a Companion
How do you know if your cat is lonely and could benefit from a feline friend? According to PetMD, signs of loneliness include:
- Excessive Clinginess: Following you everywhere or demanding constant attention.
- Changes in Eating or Sleeping: Eating less or more, or sleeping excessively.
- Destructive Behavior: Scratching furniture or knocking items over.
- Litter Box Issues: Urinating outside the box due to stress.
- Low Energy: Seeming lethargic or uninterested in play.
Feather’s owners thought she needed a companion, but her initial reaction shows not all cats welcome new siblings right away. Some thrive as solo pets, while others, with time, embrace the company.
How to Introduce a Kitten to Your Cat
Introducing a kitten to an older cat, like Feather, requires patience to avoid a backfire. Here are expert tips to make it work:
- Start with Scent: Swap bedding or toys between the cats to familiarize them with each other’s smell before meeting.
- Use Separate Spaces: Keep the kitten in a separate room with their own litter box, bed, and food to reduce tension.
- Supervised Meetings: Allow short, positive interactions, rewarding calm behavior with treats.
- Provide Duplicate Resources: Set up multiple litter boxes, beds, and bowls to prevent competition.
- Let Cats Set the Pace: Never force contact; let the older cat approach or retreat as they choose.
For Feather, the slow introduction paid off, as the caption notes they now “get along great.” Patience is key to turning hisses into harmony.
The Reality of Multi-Cat Homes
Feather’s story highlights the dynamics of multi-cat households. The ASPCA notes that 3.2 million cats enter U.S. shelters annually, and adopting a second cat can enrich both their lives and yours. However, it’s normal for resident cats to feel territorial at first, as seen with Feather’s initial disdain. With time and proper introductions, many cats form bonds that reduce loneliness and boost playtime, as Jes’s story of adding a third cat illustrates.
Takeaway for Pet Parents
Feather’s grumpy reaction to her new kitten sibling reminds us that feline introductions can be a rollercoaster, but the results are worth it. If you think your cat is lonely, watch for signs and introduce a new kitten thoughtfully.
Visit your local shelter to find a potential companion, and be patient as they adjust—your home might soon be filled with double the love (and maybe a little sass). Let’s embrace the chaos and cherish the bonds our cats create!
FAQs
How can I tell if my cat is lonely?
Signs include excessive clinginess, changes in eating or sleeping habits, destructive behavior, litter box issues, or low energy.
Why did my cat react badly to a new kitten?
Cats like Feather may feel territorial or stressed by a new kitten. Gradual introductions with scent swapping and separate spaces can ease the transition.
How long does it take for cats to get along?
It varies, but with proper introductions, many cats adjust within weeks to months, forming bonds like Feather and her kitten eventually did.
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