Hearts Melt As Gen Z Woman Reveals Why She Spent New Year's Eve Indoors

A video of a Generation Z woman and her cat playing at midnight has garnered over 19.6 million views on TikTok.

The wholesome clip features Liv (@livvrose98) batting a balloon back and forth with her cat, Daisy, who sits poised on the kitchen worktop.

The 2024 report from the website Best Ontario Casino Sites found that this generation is reluctant to start a family due to the rising cost of living, making parenthood seem like a financial burden. Instead, young people are making animals their pride and joy, as demonstrated by Liv in the video that has already amassed 3.4 million likes.

The December 31 video has left internet viewers in awe, gathering more than 15,400 comments. "She knows to keep her claws in so she doesn't pop the balloon. Such a smart kitty," read one comment.

"This is the cutest video I've seen in 2025," added another, and a third commenter said: "That's the definition of a best friend."

A fourth user posted: "Kitty—'Oh look, an enrichment activity for my human.'" Newsweek reached out to @livvrose98 for comment. We could not verify the details of the case.

Since cats don't require walks like dogs, it is easy to assume they are naturally inclined to lounge around—after all, they are experts at napping. However, just like canines, felines also need mental stimulation.

A stock image of a calico cat standing on its hind legs. A video of a similar-looking feline playing a game with a balloon and her owner has delighted many. ablokhin/iStock/Getty Images Plus

Newsweek previously spoke to animal expert Olivia Graham, who highlighted the importance of providing both mental and physical enrichment for cats.

Graham, the head of U.S. operations for the pet-rehoming platform Lancaster Puppies, said that, without mental engagement, cats can quickly become bored, which often leads to undesirable behaviors such as scratching furniture.

"Enrichment activities help keep a cat's mind sharp and also boost their mental health, making them less likely to develop behavioral issues," Graham said. "Engaging in enrichment play with your cat also strengthens your bond and makes them feel safer and more comfortable around you."

Graham added that enrichment not only prevents boredom but also encourages physical activity. She recommends interactive toys such as feather wands and tunnels to keep cats active and entertained.

Interestingly, felines also find joy in playing with everyday items, which can save their owners money. Graham suggested leaving cardboard boxes out for cats to play in, or making them "more exciting" by cutting holes into the boxes and dropping in treats or small toys for the feline to 'catch.' Connecting multiple boxes to create a maze can add even more fun.

Even simple activities can provide stimulation. Crumpling up a piece of paper to use as a makeshift ball or temporarily rearranging furniture to create new routes for exploration are great options. Or, like Liv, simply blow up a balloon for a playful game.

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.