A Heartwarming Viral Video Reveals Why Cats Wake Their Owners Up
A touching viral video has captured the hearts of Instagram users, offering a unique perspective on why cats often wake their owners in the early hours of the morning. Posted on February 24 by a cat lover under the handle @_oliverandcompanync, the video has garnered over 69,000 likes and sparked lively discussions about the true motivations behind this familiar feline behavior. The clip, shared by the owner of a trap-neuter-return (TNR) shelter in Asheville, North Carolina, highlights the deep bond between cats and their human caretakers, suggesting that cats may be motivated by more than just hunger when they rouse their owners from sleep.
The Video’s Explanation: Cats as Protective Companions
In the video, the shelter owner holds a black cat and begins by challenging the common assumption that cats wake their owners solely because they are hungry. She explains that cats in the wild sleep lightly to remain alert for predators, and this instinct carries over into domestic life. According to her, cats may view their human companions as "large cats" who are vulnerable while asleep. By waking their owners, cats are essentially ensuring their humans are safe and alive. This theory suggests that the meows, pounces, and "biscuit-making" behaviors cats exhibit in the morning are expressions of relief and joy, rather than mere hunger pangs.
The woman further elaborates that this behavior is particularly common at dawn, a time when cats in the wild would typically hunt. She humorously adds that cats don’t want their owners to "miss out on hunting," hinting at an evolutionary connection between their wild instincts and domestic behavior. While this explanation has charmed many viewers, it has also sparked debate about the accuracy of attributing such complex emotions to cats.
An Expert Perspective: Hunger Over Instinct?
To provide a more scientific perspective, Newsweek consulted Allie Bender, the founder and co-owner of Pet Harmony Animal Behavior & Training. Bender offers a simpler explanation for the early morning wake-up calls many cat owners experience. She suggests that hunger is often the primary motivator, as cats have learned to associate waking their owners with the act of being fed. Bender notes that in many cases, owners feed their cats immediately after being roused, creating a clear cause-and-effect pattern. This practical explanation aligns with the idea that cats are highly food-motivated animals.
While Bender acknowledges that cats are naturally vigilant due to their dual role as predators and prey in the wild, she doubts that this vigilance drives them to wake their humans out of a protective instinct. She points out that cats are generally solitary animals and do not have an evolutionary need to be vigilant in groups. However, she does concede that some cats may feel more comfortable when their human is awake and present. Still, she emphasizes that this behavior is not typically rooted in fear or anxiety.
Practical Advice for Cat Owners
For those struggling with early morning wake-up calls, Bender offers some helpful advice. She recommends feeding a small meal before bedtime to satisfy a cat’s hunger and encourage longer sleep periods. This approach has proven effective in many cases where hunger is the primary driver of the behavior. While this solution may not satisfy those who prefer to believe their cats are motivated by love and concern, it provides a practical way to address the issue.
The Bond Between Humans and Cats
The debate sparked by the video underscores the complex and often mysterious bond between humans and their feline companions. While some people may find comfort in the idea that their cats are driven by a protective instinct, others appreciate the simplicity of knowing that their pets are simply hungry. Regardless of the motivation, the viral video reminds us of the unique ways in which cats bring joy, companionship, and even a little chaos into our lives.
Conclusion: Sharing the Joy of Pets
The viral video and the ensuing discussion highlight the special place pets hold in our hearts and homes. For those who enjoy sharing the joy of their pets with others, Newsweek invites readers to submit their own funny and adorable pet videos or photos. Whether it’s a mischievous cat or a playful dog, your pet could be featured in their Pet of the Week lineup. Simply send your submissions to life@newsweek.com with some details about your furry friend. Who knows? Your pet might become the next internet sensation!
