A video showcasing an endearing bond between a husky and a kitten has captivated viewers on TikTok.
The viral clip shared by @simplybrandik has garnered over 401,000 views since it was posted on October 11. The footage captures an unexpected yet heartwarming dynamic between two different species often perceived as "mortal enemies." A caption posted with the video reads: "When the #husky has decided to be the #kittens mom."
The clip features a husky laying protectively in a hallway with a small kitten curled up around her tail. A note overlaid on the video reads: "When you are getting ready to leave for work and your husky informs you that this is her baby and you leave her be."
As the owner approaches the animals, the husky lets out a soft growl, seemingly to protect the kitten. A voice off-camera then says: "OK. I'll leave your baby alone."
While the protective behavior of the husky toward the kitten might seem extraordinary, a study published in August 2020 in PLOS One found that such inter-species relationships are more common than one might think, especially in cohabiting environments.
While they are often considered "mortal enemies," an increasing number of dogs and cats have been living under the same roof, and "most cohabitations are peaceful," the study said. It found that most dogs and cats that share a home sleep together "at least occasionally" and play together.
The study added: "Although some body postures, such as the tail's position, are interpreted differently by the two species, the greater proportions of dogs and cats show a relaxed response to several kinds of approaches of their roommate.
"It is true that they speak different languages, but they seem to understand each other well and interpret each other's approaches in the right way," the study noted.
The relationship seen in the viral video also underlines the natural protective instincts found in huskies, a breed known for their loyalty and pack-oriented behavior. This instinct can extend to other animals living within the same household, making them fiercely protective family members.
'We Love a Protective Mom'
TikTok users were delighted by the viral clip, flooding the post with positive comments.
Anna Montana simply posted, "so precious," while Noah added: "this is too cute."
A TikTok user called Name commented, "We love a protective mom," and @xhoatica noted: "That's good parenting right there."
Other users echoed the sentiment: "That beautiful husky is like mommy leave me alone. I've got the baby. She's fine," wrote Lissette Mullen.
TeTe posted that the dog must have been saying, "Take a step back, mom I got this," while RLOTikTok commented: "I don't need your meddling, I know how to tend to MY baby."
Newsweek has contacted the original poster for comment via TikTok. This video has not been independently verified.
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