By Leonie Helm
Life Reporter
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Cats have many defining qualities, including aloofness, random aggression and a lack of understanding about personal space.
One cat that epitomizes the latter character trait is Belen, who has gone viral on TikTok in a video with over 14.5 million views.
In the clip, posted by his owner, Luca Gervasi (@iamlucagervasi), Gervasi can be seen trying to sneak on to the sofa for some relaxation time while Belen looks on curiously.
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The video then cuts to Gervasi sitting in a less that comfortable position, with Belen on his chest, his paws wrapped around his neck.
"Pov: Life with a cat," reads the text.
Some cats want nothing to do with their owners, preferring to sit near them rather than on them, while others only need the slightest encouragement to sit on their owners chest, feet or even face.
If there's no human surface area to be found, these types of cats will satisfy themselves with sitting on your laptop, or the magazine you're trying to read.
But why do some cats have such a disregard for their owners' personal space?
"Cats may choose to sit on top of you, your laptop or really any external heat source in search of warmth," Dr. Vanessa Spano, a veterinarian at Behavior Vets in New York City, told The Dodo. "Cats may also just want to be physically near you for your attention and love. This can be a good thing!"
So, they might be showing you love or using you like a personal heat pad, but an overly attached attitude could also be a sign of separation anxiety in cats.
Separation Anxiety in Cats
Despite their generally aloof personalities, cats can experience separation anxiety and there are some telltale signs to look out for.
"There can be many signs of separation anxiety in cats, including increased vocalization like meowing or crying, either when you leave or as you are getting ready to go," explains the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).
"You may also notice your cat refusing to use their litter box. Other behaviors related to anxiety involve excessive grooming, destructive habits, extreme attachment, and attention-seeking behaviors whenever you are around."
There are certain things to try if you suspect your cat to have separation anxiety, such as providing plenty of enrichment in the house while you're out, and practicing leaving your cat with short absences.
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If nothing works, it may be time to organize an appointment with your vet.
"After trying these other methods, if you don't believe they are helping, it may be time to schedule another visit with your veterinarian," said the ASPCA. "After receiving their professional opinion, it may be decided that prescribing anti-anxiety medications for your feline friend is the best route. Some of these medications only need to be given right before you leave.
Your veterinarian may even recommend different behavior therapies that you might not have yet tried, including meeting with a behavioral therapist."
Users on TikTok loved the cuddly cat.
"I want this problem," said one user. "I have a cuddly cat and an ignore me cat, balance," shared another user. "I wish!! My cat won't lay on people, doesn't like being picked up, and doesn't purr," wrote another.
Newsweek has reached out to @iamlucagervasi via TikTok for comment.
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.
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