List of 'Crimes' School Cat Commits in Just 1 Week Has Internet in Stitches
A "school cat" from the United Kingdom has gone viral for all the crimes she commits at work every day, and internet users can't stop laughing at her antics.
Her owner exposed her pet's shenanigans in a hilarious video shared on Instagram in October under the username @educatinghalloumi, where the feline, Halloumi, can be seen misbehaving at school throughout the week. Newsweek reached out to @educatinghalloumi for comment via Instagram comments. We could not verify the details of the case.
From stealing toys to damaging school property, and disturbing the peace, the list of "crimes" committed by the fluffy cat in just one week is long, and includes charges of murdering a worm in the playground and napping on the job. "Guilty as charged," reads a caption shared with the viral video.
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Cats are known for being mischievous and refusing to do as they are told, but what makes them so reluctant to listen to you?
A Catster article, medically reviewed by Dr. Paola Cuevas, says that cats can hear three times better than us, and can definitely tell their owner's voice from others; they just choose not to listen.
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One reason behind this behavior is that, as independent creatures, they don't rely on us the same way dogs do, probably because of their background as a solitary predator, as opposed to dogs, who have evolved in packs.
It may also be the case that you are using the wrong tone when speaking to them. In fact, cats are only interested in people who speak to them in a calm and relaxed way, using a soft voice when addressing them.
An easy way to get your feline to listen to you, according to an article by Georgia-based veterinarian Jess Kirk for Vet Explains Pets, is by rewarding them when they do so. This will create a positive association, making them more likely to listen to you again in the future.
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It is important, however, to avoid punishing them when they misbehave. Punishments are counterproductive with cats, and are likely to make the situation worse. Most veterinarians agree that positive reinforcement is the best way to go about training felines.
The video quickly went viral on social media and has so far received over 862,000 views and more than 47,500 likes on the platform.
One user, Gillhoneyford, commented: "Completely adorable. Even though the 'crimes' are on camera, I believe there are mitigating circumstances. When I've discovered what they are, I'll let you know."
Whiffsbytrish wrote: "This is hilarious. Halloumi is innocent!! Free Halloumi!!!"
Madeleine_pawlbright added: "Evidence all circumstantial. Halloumi is innocent!"
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.