Therapy Cat Who ‘Loves Attention’ Befriends Toddler During His Daily Walk

Who says that only dogs can go out for walks? This one-eared cat would certainly disagree, as he loves nothing more than heading out for a stroll with his owner and meeting new people.

As Kat Curtis takes Uno out for a walk around three to five times a week, he rarely misses an opportunity to say hello and make new friends, as she told Newsweek that he just “loves attention” from everyone.

During a walk earlier this month, the certified therapy cat had the pleasure of meeting 1-year-old Maya and her younger sister Melody, and “he immediately approached her and climbed into the stroller.” It was such an exciting encounter for the duo, so much so that Maya instantly wanted to get out of the stroller so they could interact properly.

Curtis, from Los Angeles, California said: “Uno loves kids, so when he saw Maya in her stroller, he immediately greeted her with a meow. When I told Maya’s Dad that Uno is friendly, he took Maya out of the stroller so Uno and Maya could properly meet.

“Uno is fond of Maya but was a little startled by her high-pitched squeals. However, he tolerated her squeals in exchange for pets and affection. Then I decided to give Maya Uno’s leash and let her try walking Uno, and she did such a great job.”

After seeing Uno make another friend, Curtis couldn’t resist sharing the adorable footage on his dedicated TikTok account (@one_eared_uno). Social media users couldn’t get enough of seeing Maya try to walk Uno, and the clip has already been viewed more than 1.6 million times and gained over 334,600 likes in a matter of days.

Taking Your Cat Out for a Walk

Going out for a walk isn’t just limited to dogs, as Uno happily demonstrates. While it might take some training to help the cat become accustomed to a new routine, Michelson Found Animals suggests that going out walking is a good form of exercise for a cat and provides good mental stimulation. Taking in new sights and smells can stop a cat from feeling cooped up inside the house.

There are things to consider though before going out for a stroll, as owners should always use a harness and leash to ensure the cat can’t slip out of a collar, and it’s also recommended to start wearing the harness around the house first to get them used to it. Going for walks around the house and garden is a positive way to start, and then gradually build up to actually going on a walk.

As for 10-year-old Uno, he just loves meeting people and other cats when they head out, as Curtis added that the interactions “make him happy.”

How Did Social Media React?

Since the video of Uno and Maya’s blossoming friendship went viral, Curtis said it has been received “with warmth and inspiration,” as people love seeing how content he is. She is hopeful that more people might consider taking their felines out for a walk, as you just never know what might happen.

She told Newsweek: “People adore how calm and affectionate he is with every person and pet he meets, and they’re inspired to see that Uno can go on walks and do so well. Walking a cat on a leash is something a lot of cats can do, but it’s not as common as walking a dog so people tend to find the fact that my cat Uno walks on a leash a bit surprising.”

The clip of Uno and Maya melted many hearts online, and with over 600 comments on the viral video, many TikTok users wanted to share their delight. One comment reads: “Uno is a patient saint, but also shout out to the parents who also made sure their kids understood to be gentle.”

Another person responded: “Uno is an amazing cat! So sweet and patient.”

While one TikTok user commented: “core memory unlocked for Maya. She is now going to be very confused that all cats won’t just walk on a leash.”

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