Internet Obsessed With Tough Life of Guard Dog: 'Hard Work'
A video appearing to show a cat giving a "guard dog" a massage has gone viral on TikTok.
On April 27, user @taylorhomestead_sk of Saskatchewan, Canada, posted the video, which shows the dog resting on a chair as the cat paws at its fur. "Its hard work being a guard dog," the user wrote in the video's caption.
The clip has received more than 928,800 views, 138,900 likes and 300 comments, with one user dubbing the cat's movements a "meowsage."
Newsweek contacted @taylorhomestead_sk for comment via Instagram. We could not verify the details of the video.
When cats push their paws into a soft surface or material, it's referred to as kneading or, more colloquially, making biscuits. PetMD, a pet care website, said cats knead with blankets, their owners, or even dogs as a way of relieving stress. They also knead to get a sense of relaxation, as the act reminds them of nursing as kittens.
Kneading can also mean that they're preparing for sleep or to claim the object as their own by depositing pheromones from their toes onto the surface. PetMD said kneading can also be a sign of affection, one that suggests a sense of comfort and security.
If kneading is occurring frequently, owners are encouraged to keep their cats' nails trimmed to prevent injury or skin damage when it happens. An owner can also use a blanket as a protective barrier from their cat's claws if it becomes uncomfortable, but they still want to allow the cat to perform the ritual.
What Did TikTokers Say?
In the video's comments section, TikTok users were quick to praise the cat for being such a helpful friend to the sleepy dog.
"I feel like he's whispering positive affirmations to the dog as he makes biscuits," one wrote.
"Just kneading out all those knots," another added.
"Hope the cat is paid for overtime," a user said.
Other users lauded the dog for making the most of his guarding duties and living his best life, with one commenter writing, "I'm glad he has good benefits at this job."
"I wish my company had this in their medical packet," a user added.
Another said, "He deserves every bit of that."
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