Clip of Cat Getting a Massage Delights Viewers: 'Self-Care'
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
A viral video showing a tabby cat enjoying a relaxing back massage has taken the internet by storm, proving that self-care isn't just exclusive to humans.
The heartwarming clip shared on TikTok in April, under the username @kirakira_gg, shows the kitty named Kira lying belly down on an ironing board, stretching out her body, as her owner massages her back.
"Nothing a massage can't fix," reads layover text in the clip, as the poster adds in the caption: "Self-care isn't just for humans."
We all love a good back massage, and so do our pets. Massages have multiple benefits for our felines; they help relieve aches and pains, reduce anxiety, and can even lower blood pressure.
But before giving your pet a massage, you should get into the right state of mind to do so, says a Catster article medically reviewed by Dr. Luqman Javed; you should only do it when you have the time and can fully focus on them.
Cats aren't big fans of deep-tissue massages, so it is advisable to use light pressure and soft touches instead, starting from the head, then down to the shoulders and the back, avoiding the belly if your cat doesn't like it.
Remember to keep the massage short, and always observe their body language for cues they may have had enough.
Massages should take place in a quiet area of your home, without any distraction. It is always best to consult your veterinarian to check if your cat is in the right physical condition for a massage, and to learn how to do it effectively. You should not massage any feline that is affected by a medical condition.
Stock image: A tabby cat gets a back massage from a human.
Stock image: A tabby cat gets a back massage from a human.
getty images
The video quickly went viral on social media and it has so far received over 560,000 views and more than 37,000 likes on the platform.
One user, Monkey_d_ruffy86, commented: "She was stressed after a day full of … doing cat things, so that's the least u can do."
Mariacob426 posted: "I work from Monday to Sunday and I don't get that treatment. I should be born a cat in the next life."
Grace Jeaney wrote: "Loving the professional spa atmosphere."
Another user, Vorname Nachname5855, added: "Seems like we found the wellness cat."
Newsweek reached out to @kirakira_gg for comment via TikTok comments. We could not verify the details of the case.
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.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
New York Post
3 hours ago
- New York Post
Beware these 3 supplements that can be really harmful if you take too much
Talk about supplemental damage. Today's world of wellness can sometimes seem like a merry-go-round of supplements promising you better sleep, healthier skin and extended longevity. But while many of these supplements can be a true healthy hack — what happens if you take too much? 3 A new study proves there really can be too much of a good thing. Diana Vyshniakova – A recent study published in the journal Cureus warns of the dangers of overdosing on three popular supplements. Selenium Found in Brazil nuts, organ meat, seafood, grains and dairy products, selenium is a mineral that can protect the body from infection. It can also help protect telomeres, the tiny caps at the ends of our chromosomes that shrink as we age and are linked to cancer, heart issues and other chronic conditions. But, taken in excess, selenium supplementation can lead to selenosis — an unpleasant condition marked by hair loss, nail brittleness and a metallic taste in your mouth. It can also be accompanied by gastrointestinal issues, fatigue and garlic breath. While symptoms generally abate after you stop taking it, nail growth might be slow to improve. 3 Taken in excess, selenium supplementation can lead to selenosis — an unpleasant condition marked by hair loss, nail brittleness and a metallic taste in your mouth. YULIYA – Niacin Niacin (Vitamin B3) is commonly added to 'detox' supplements and even energy drinks — and is often touted for its cholesterol-lowering properties. But, when taken in large doses, it can cause a bright red facial flush, burning skin sensation, itchiness and even liver toxicity. These symptoms are often misdiagnosed as rosacea or allergic reaction, especially among women following influencer-approved 'cleanse' regimens. 3 When taken in large doses, zinc can cause a bright red facial flush, burning skin sensation, itchiness and even liver toxicity. dream@do – Zinc Zinc is an electrolyte that's important for immunity, skin and hair health. However, taken in excess, zinc can cause skin irritation, copper deficiency and anemia — and may worsen acne in sensitive individuals. Overall, the study points to the fact that, while sometimes helpful, many social media trends can be harmful to the health of viewers. 'Recent analyses indicate that a significant proportion of nutrition-related content on platforms such as YouTube, Instagram and TikTok may lack scientific rigor or present unverified claims,' the study's authors write. 'A recent study evaluating nutrition-related TikTok posts found that 55% lacked evidence-based information, and 90% failed to adequately discuss the risks and benefits of the nutritional advice provided. 'Moreover, only 36% of analyzed posts were classified as completely accurate, highlighting the extent of misinformation prevalent on popular social media channels.'
Newsweek
7 hours ago
- Newsweek
Pregnant Woman Goes Into Labor, Then Sees Her Doctor From Hospital Window
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The dramatic moment when a doctor sprinted across a hospital car park to deliver a baby has gone viral on TikTok, racking up 4.6 million views. The footage, shared by mom-of-four Angelica (@epicangelicanatalie), shows Dr. Christopher Kraft racing against time, as she was already 10cm dilated when he got the call. Angelica, who lives in Houston, Texas, told Newsweek: "Dr. Kraft came in perfectly calm with a 'ready to have a baby?' As if he wasn't just running in July Florida heat." The text layered over the clip states Piece Epic was born five minutes later. Angelica holding her newborn son and her family visiting them in hospital. Angelica holding her newborn son and her family visiting them in hospital. Provided by Angelica According to CDC data, a total of 3,596,017 births occurred in the United States in 2023, down 2 percent from 2022. The general fertility rate also declined 3 percent, falling to 54.5 births per 1,000 females aged 15–44 in 2023. Kraft has been Angelica's doctor for the past five years, but Epic is the first one he has delivered—just over a week ago. She told Newsweek: "The last office visit I had with him I insisted that I did not want him to miss this one! "We timed it perfectly with a very light induction considering I was very far dilated already, and my son was born eight hours later." Before filming the now-viral clip—which has gained almost 557,000 likes—Angelica said a nurse had mentioned how they often see Dr. Kraft running from his office to see patients. Then, like clockwork, they looked out of a third-floor window and saw him doing exactly that. "We found it so caring that he puts in that effort, and funny at the same time," she said. "I'm usually the one with a camera in my hand, but this time my husband Sage was the one who was recording, and his commentary made the video so perfectly wholesome." Indeed, Sage can be heard laughing, saying "he is ready," and complimenting the doctor's pace. Kraft told Newsweek: "While she was in labor, I was seeing patients in my office and monitoring her progress very closely. The nurse had reached out to me and informed me that delivery appeared imminent. "Once I got the word, I rushed from my office down four flights of stairs and ran out the backdoor to the hospital. I needed to get there as quickly as possible to ensure her safety and the safety of her baby, and running was my only option." Angelica requested a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC), and Kraft was supportive of her decision. According to the American Pregnancy Association, most studies show that 60–80%—or about 3 to 4 out of every 5 women—who've had a previous C-section can have a successful vaginal birth. However, there are risks, which is why Kraft didn't want to miss a thing. TikTok Reacts So far, the clip has over 3,000 comments - some from parents who recognize Kraft and others sharing their birthing experiences. "My doctor came literally stumbling in. Dude got caught in the curtain got twisted up and fell and popped back up and said it's baby time," said one user. Another wrote: "My doc knew I'd deliver within minutes, we called him and he was half asleep and said "IM ON MY WAY, LOVE YOU BYE" I said "love you too." "With my 2nd the doctor said it would be 2-3 hours until I had to push. Wrong, it was 10 minutes. He came crashing into the room said "whoops" and caught my son one handed," said a third commenter. If you have a family dilemma, let us know via life@ We can ask experts for advice, and your story could be featured on Newsweek.
Newsweek
8 hours ago
- Newsweek
Millions Across 11 States Told To Stay out of Sun, Limit Activity
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Millions of Americans across almost a dozen states were instructed to stay out of the sun and limit outdoor activities, as the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a sweeping series of extreme heat warnings and advisories amid dangerous temperatures. Dozens of cities in 11 states throughout the South, Midwest, and Southwest face dangerous heat, prompting health alerts and safety guidance for vulnerable communities. Why It Matters The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warned that extreme heat is the deadliest weather phenomenon in the United States, causing more than 700 deaths annually. Vulnerable populations, including children, seniors, and people with chronic health conditions, face elevated risks of heat-related illness such as heat stroke and exhaustion. Rising temperatures also amplify ground-level ozone pollution, compounding risks for those with asthma or heart complaints. People drink water as they walk along the National Mall near the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C., on July 25, 2025, as a heat dome sits over the region leading to extremely high temperatures. People drink water as they walk along the National Mall near the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C., on July 25, 2025, as a heat dome sits over the region leading to extremely high temperatures. Getty Images What To Know According to the NWS Extreme Heat Warning map and recent reports, extreme heat warnings are in effect for 11 states—affecting hundreds of cities and millions of residents. The hardest-hit areas were parts of Iowa, southwest Minnesota, northeast Nebraska, and most of South Dakota. These regions are forecast to experience heat index values at or above 110 degrees Fahrenheit. In their statements on the heat warning, the NWS advised: "Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors." Officials reiterated not to leave children or pets unattended in vehicles, as car interiors can reach deadly temperatures within minutes. "For the Heat Advisory, warm and muggy conditions will continue early this morning. For the Extreme Heat Warning, dangerously hot conditions with heat index values 111 to 115 expected," the NWS said. Simultaneously, less severe heat advisories stretched across the South, Midwest, and Northeast—including Georgia and southeast South Carolina, where forecast heat index values routinely top 100 F. Cities across affected regions have opened cooling centers for residents without air conditioning, with officials encouraging people to stay indoors and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours. The exact temperature thresholds that trigger heat advisories vary geographically, but all current warnings indicate conditions that push the human body beyond normal heat tolerance limits. What People Are Saying The NWS in Phoenix, Arizona, said in a statement on Sunday: "Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay in the shade, and check up on relatives and neighbors. "Do not leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles. Car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes. "Take extra precautions when outside. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke." What Happens Next At the time of publication, the latest extreme heat warnings remain in effect until at least 9 p.m. CDT Thursday, with the NWS advising residents to stay informed as conditions may shift.
