Cats may have a reputation as being independent and aloof companions, but new research suggests this is far from accurate.
In fact, a 2024 study found that they grieve the loss of a loved one in much the same way as a dog would, spending more time alone and looking for their lost companions.
The emotional discovery
Aline, a TikTok user from Illinois, feels certain that her feline friend is grieving.
Derived from the Spanish words for "alter" and "offering", Aline marks annual Day of the Dead celebrations, by placing an offering to deceased loved ones on an ofrenda she has set up at home.
But this year, something was slightly different. Alongside her own offerings, she spotted something else.
Her cat had left a little green boot right next to the ofrenda, as if she were leaving her own tribute to those no longer with her.
A tribute to her kittens
"Crying after checking my ofrenda and noticing that my cat (who lost two babies after she gave birth) left her favourite toy for her little ones", she explained.
"They say because animals have heightened senses it's possible they feel or even see those who are gone when we can't. I wonder if she's as attached to the ofrenda as you are", commented one viewer.
"So touching", wrote another.
