As cat parents, we’ve all been there: you splurge on a fancy pet product, only for your feline to fall in love with something as simple as a cardboard box—or in Noodles’ case, a fruit bowl. This fluffy white cat from California has stolen hearts on TikTok, curling up in the coziest, most unexpected spot and reminding us why cats keep us on our toes.
Here’s the adorable story of Noodles and his “emotional support apple,” plus tips for understanding your cat’s quirky sleeping habits.
Noodles’ Fruit Bowl Obsession Goes Viral
In a TikTok video that’s racked up over 770,000 views, Noodles, a fluffy white cat, is caught napping in a fruit bowl on his family’s dining table. His owner, Lauren (@aiasmomma), shared the hilarious clip, showing the $100 cat tree in the background, completely ignored. The caption sums it up perfectly: “Why do kids and pets like random free stuff over the thing you bought for them?”
In the video, Lauren gently nudges Noodles awake, asking, “Why do you like the fruit bowl, honey?” Noodles meows back, and Lauren adds playful text imagining his sassy reply: “Yeah, so what’s your point? I like my fruit bowl.”
The moment gets even funnier when Lauren lifts Noodles’ leg to retrieve an apple he’s snuggled against. When Noodles paws to keep it, Lauren jokes, “Is that your emotional support apple?” The internet can’t get enough, with over 145,000 likes and 3,500 comments from amused pet parents.
@aiasmomma Why do kids and pets like random free stuff over the thing you bought for them #catsoftiktok #catinabowl #kitties #fyp #viral
♬ original sound – Lauren Aaaaa
Why Cats Choose the Weirdest Nap Spots
Noodles’ love for his fruit bowl isn’t just quirky—it’s classic cat behavior. According to Purina, cats are drawn to small, enclosed spaces for a few key reasons:
- Safety and Security: As ambush predators, cats instinctively seek confined spots where they feel protected and hidden, like a fruit bowl or cardboard box.
- Warmth: Cats crave cozy spots that keep them close to their ideal body temperature of around 37°C (98.6°F). A snug bowl provides insulation and comfort.
- Curiosity: Cats are naturally curious, and new objects in the home—like a fruit bowl—spark their interest as potential nap zones.
- Sleep Habits: With cats sleeping up to 18 hours a day, they’re always on the hunt for the comfiest, most interesting spots to snooze.
For Noodles, that fruit bowl isn’t just a bowl—it’s a “luxury cave” offering warmth, security, and a sense of ownership. And that emotional support apple? It’s just the cherry (or apple) on top of his perfect nap setup.
TikTok’s Hilarious Reactions
Noodles’ fruit bowl nap has sparked a wave of laughter and relatability online. One commenter wrote, “I want a cloud in a bowl with an emotional support apple.” Another shared, “Spent $200 on cat tree. Prefers the ugly box it was shipped in.” Pet parents flooded the comments with photos of their own cats napping in odd spots—bowls, skillets, under beds, and even fruit containers. It’s clear Noodles isn’t alone in his quirky preferences.
How to Make Your Cat’s Nap Spots Safe and Fun
Want to embrace your cat’s love for random nap spots while keeping them safe? Here are some practical tips for pet parents:
- Check for Safety: Ensure household items like bowls or boxes are free of sharp edges, chemicals, or small parts your cat could swallow.
- Provide Alternatives: Offer cozy, cat-friendly options like soft beds or repurposed cardboard boxes to satisfy their love for enclosed spaces.
- Rotate Objects: Introduce new (safe) items periodically to spark your cat’s curiosity and keep their environment engaging.
- Monitor Expensive Gear: If your cat ignores their cat tree, try moving it to a new spot or adding toys and treats to make it more appealing.
- Embrace the Quirk: Sometimes, letting your cat claim a fruit bowl or box is part of the fun—just make sure it’s clean and safe.
A Reminder to Embrace Your Cat’s Quirks
Noodles’ fruit bowl nap is more than just a viral moment—it’s a heartwarming reminder that cats have a knack for finding joy in the simplest things. Whether it’s a $100 cat tree or a humble fruit bowl, our feline friends remind us to expect the unexpected and cherish their unique personalities.
Takeaway for Pet Parents
Next time your cat ditches their fancy gear for a random household item, laugh it off and check that their new favorite spot is safe. Noodles’ story shows that sometimes, the best way to bond with your cat is to embrace their quirky choices—even if it means sharing your fruit bowl.
FAQ
Why does my cat sleep in weird places like bowls or boxes?
Cats love small, enclosed spaces because they feel safe, warm, and secure. These spots mimic their natural instinct to hide, and they’re often cozier than expensive pet products.
How can I make my cat use their cat tree instead of household items?
Try placing the cat tree in a favorite spot, adding toys or treats, or sprinkling catnip to make it more appealing. Moving it occasionally can also spark interest.
Are fruit bowls or similar items safe for cats to sleep in?
They can be safe if they’re clean, stable, and free of sharp edges or harmful substances. Always check the item and supervise your cat to ensure their safety.
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to lifo@snugglesouls.com with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.