As cat parents, few things hit harder than watching our little ones navigate loss—especially when it’s a tiny kitten saying a final farewell to their mom. A viral TikTok capturing a grieving kitten curled up on her late mother’s body has us all reaching for the tissues, reminding us just how deeply our feline family feels the world.
If you’ve ever worried about how to support your cat through tough times, this story—and the caring steps one owner is taking—offers a gentle, hopeful guide.
A Sudden Loss That Shattered Hearts
In a clip that’s breaking hearts across TikTok, 19-year-old cat mom @ai.yue3 from the Philippines shared the raw, emotional moment her unnamed 2-month-old kitten lay atop her momma cat, Yohane, for nearly 30 minutes before burial.
Yohane had joyfully welcomed three kittens in June, only to suffer a tragic, sudden heart attack in August. Wrapped gently in blankets, Yohane’s body became a quiet resting spot for her little one, who seemed to sense the finality of the goodbye.
“I felt sad because I lost my cat, but I was even sadder for the kitten who had lost its mother,” @ai.yue3 shared with Snugglesouls. The video exploded overnight, amassing over 3.8 million views and 875,500 likes, with viewers pouring out empathy in the comments.
One wrote, “That poor baby just wants his mum back,” while another added, “Grief of losing a mum is universal. I wish I could hug her and tell her it’s going to be OK.” A third simply said, “Thank you for letting this baby say goodbye to her momma.”
Thankfully, @ai.yue3 is stepping up with love and care. “The kitten is doing OK now,” she explained. “I’ve been giving them milk to replace the mom’s milk, but I’m also feeding them dry food now that they’re old enough.” All three kittens are healthy, and since Yohane’s passing was due to a heart attack—not contagious—they face no added risks.
Do Cats Really Grieve? Signs and How to Help
Just like us, cats experience a full spectrum of emotions, including profound grief when they lose a companion. As cat parents, we often worry about those quiet moments when our pets seem off—wondering if we’re reading too much into it. VCA Animal Hospitals explains that mourning cats might show these telltale signs:
- Depression and Listlessness: Your cat may seem withdrawn, with less energy for their usual antics.
- Appetite Changes: Skipping meals or eating less is common as they process the loss.
- Less Playtime: That zoomie-loving furball might ignore toys and prefer curling up.
- Extra Sleep: Napping more than their typical 12-16 hours a day signals emotional fatigue.
- Hiding Away: Seeking solitude under beds or in closets is their way of coping privately.
This kitten’s choice to stay close to Yohane echoes how cats bond deeply with their moms and litters. If you’re supporting a grieving kitty, here’s how to lend a paw:
- Maintain Routines: Stick to feeding and play schedules to provide stability.
- Offer Extra Comfort: Gentle pets, warm spots, and pheromone diffusers can soothe their heart.
- Monitor Closely: If signs persist beyond a week or two, chat with your vet about cat health support.
- Give Them Time: Like us, cats heal at their own pace—patience is your best tool.
For more on cat emotional health, explore our guide to supporting your cat through change.
Navigating the Viral Spotlight Amid the Pain
@ai.yue3 never imagined her personal heartache would touch so many. “I’m not popular on TikTok, so I really wasn’t expecting the video to generate so much engagement,” she reflected. The outpouring of support has been a silver lining, but it’s come with trolls too. “I am a fur parent who just lost her cat, and people are bashing me for being a careless owner,” she shared. “I love my cats so much and I’m willing to do anything for them. So, I hope people learn how to be sensitive, especially if you just lost a cat you loved so dearly.”
Her words are a poignant reminder: behind every viral pet story is a real family feeling the weight of it all. As the community rallies with over 12,600 comments, it’s clear this tale of loss and love has united cat parents in shared compassion.
A Gentle Reminder for Grieving Pet Parents
Stories like Yohane and her kitten’s tug at our souls because they mirror our own fears of loss—and our fierce commitment to our furry ones. @ai.yue3’s dedication shows that with empathy, routine, and a little extra TLC, even the tiniest hearts can mend.
Takeaway for Cat Parents
If your cat’s showing grief signs, lean into those quiet cuddles and keep an eye on their eating and energy. You’re not just their human—you’re their anchor. And remember, it’s okay to grieve too; sharing your story, like @ai.yue3 did, can heal as much as it helps others.
FAQ
How can I tell if my cat is grieving the loss of another pet?
Look for changes like lethargy, reduced appetite, more sleeping, or hiding. These are common grief signs, but if they last over two weeks, consult your vet.
What should I feed orphaned kittens after their mom passes?
Start with kitten milk replacer for nutrition, then transition to softened dry food as they age (around 4-6 weeks). Always provide fresh water and monitor their weight.
Is a cat heart attack common, and can it affect kittens?
Heart issues in cats are often congenital or age-related and not contagious. Kittens from affected moms aren’t at higher risk, but regular vet checkups are key for early detection.
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