As cat parents, we’ve all felt that pang of guilt when packing for a trip, knowing our furry friends might not understand why we’re leaving. For one orange tabby, the solution was simple: stow away in her owner’s suitcase!
A viral TikTok video shared by @cattok886 on September 4, 2025, captures this sneaky cat curled up among folded clothes, sparking laughter and tears across the internet. With nearly 10 million views, this heartwarming moment reminds us of the lengths our cats go to stay by our side.
Here’s the story, plus tips for traveling with your feline friend.
A Feline Stowaway Steals the Show
In the adorable TikTok clip, an orange cat is nestled snugly in a perfectly packed suitcase, surrounded by neatly folded clothes and clutching her favorite toy. Whether she’s pretending to sleep to avoid detection or just too cozy to move, her determination to join her owner’s trip is undeniable.
The video exploded online, earning 3.2 million likes in just 24 hours. TikTok users couldn’t resist, with comments like, “I’d cancel the whole trip” and “She fits perfectly. She HAS to go with you,” reflecting the universal love for this would-be traveler.
The cat’s antics highlight the deep bond we share with our pets, making it hard to leave them behind. As one user quipped, “She packed all her belongings,” capturing the humor and heart of the moment.
The Rise of Pet Travel
Traveling with pets is more popular than ever. According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), 55% of dog owners and 36% of cat owners now plan trips with their pets in mind.
In 2024, 90% of cat owners traveled by car with their feline companions, and 80% took to the skies, with 30% of cat owners taking three or more car trips and 22% making multiple flights—a significant jump from 2022. But while dogs often embrace adventure, cats, like our suitcase stowaway, may find travel stressful.
Why Cats Find Travel Challenging
Cats thrive on familiarity, and the sights, sounds, and smells of travel can be overwhelming. U.K.-based charity Cats Protection notes that most cats associate carriers with stressful events, like vet visits, making even short trips a challenge.
The motion of cars or planes, unfamiliar environments, and disruptions to routine can cause anxiety, which is why this orange tabby’s suitcase stunt feels like a clever plea to stay close to her owner.
Tips for Stress-Free Cat Travel
If you’re planning to travel with your cat, preparation is key to keeping them calm and safe. Here’s how to make trips easier, inspired by Cats Protection’s advice:
- Choose a Sturdy Carrier: Ensure it’s spacious, secure, and lined with soft bedding for comfort.
- Pack Familiar Items: Bring favorite toys, blankets, or even a piece of your clothing to provide familiar scents.
- Prepare for Basic Needs: Include food, bottled water, pet bowls, a small litter box, familiar litter, and waste bags.
- Use Puppy Pads: Line the carrier with absorbent pads for accidents or spills.
- Keep Cleaning Supplies Handy: Pack pet-safe wipes and disinfectant for quick cleanups.
- Practice Short Trips: Acclimate your cat to the carrier with short drives before longer journeys.
- Consult Your Vet: Ask about calming aids or medications for cats prone to travel anxiety.
For more on creating a cat-friendly travel setup, check out our guide to traveling with cats.
A Heartwarming Reminder of Cat Love
This orange cat’s suitcase adventure is more than just a funny moment—it’s a testament to the unbreakable bond between cats and their owners. Whether they’re sneaking into luggage or meowing at the door, our feline friends remind us how much they value our presence. As pet parents, we can honor that bond by planning trips that prioritize their comfort and safety.
Takeaway for Pet Parents
If your cat tries to tag along like this TikTok star, take it as a sign of their love. With careful planning and the right supplies, you can make travel a stress-free experience for both of you—or decide to stay home for extra cuddles instead.
FAQ
Q: Why do cats try to sneak into suitcases?
Cats may climb into suitcases to stay close to their owners, seeking familiar scents and comfort, or to protest changes in routine, like an upcoming trip.
Q: How can I make travel less stressful for my cat?
Use a sturdy carrier with familiar bedding, bring favorite toys, practice short trips, and consult your vet for calming aids if needed.
Q: What essentials should I pack for traveling with my cat?
Pack a carrier, food, water, bowls, a litter box, familiar litter, waste bags, puppy pads, pet-safe cleaning supplies, and comforting toys or blankets.
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.
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