In a short video posted on TikTok in early June by user @_kita00, a tabby cat is seen walking into the living room... before suddenly freezing on the spot.
With an arched back, fur on end, and a look of disbelief, he seems utterly terrified by a monster... who turns out to be none other than his own brother.
A new look that divides opinion
Unrecognisable, his brother is sporting a jaw-dropping new look. He now has a "lion cut", a style where the cat is shaved all over except for the head, paws, and tail. Completely stunned by this creature who looks like a complete stranger, the tabby cat doesn't know how to react at first!
The video's creator added a witty caption to the scene: "When your brother comes back with the worst haircut you've ever seen." This hilarious clip quickly won over the internet. In just a few days, the video racked up over 1.2 million views and nearly 200,000 likes.
A reminder about feline grooming
While the video is amusing, it also serves as a reminder that feline grooming should not be taken lightly. It is rarely necessary to shave a cat, as their coat plays a vital role in regulating their body temperature. An unsuitable shave can cause discomfort and even lead to problems with thermoregulation. However, there are some situations where it might be justified, such as matted fur that can't be brushed out, a parasite infestation, the need to apply skin treatments, excessive shedding, or when older, obese, or frail cats have difficulty grooming themselves. In any case, it is always recommended to seek advice from a vet and to have the grooming done by a professional.