Kitten's First Trip to the Beach Doesn't Go To Plan
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.
What's sandy and perfect for a cat? A litter tray—which explains why this kitten was baffled on her first beach day.
Meo Toffee, a three-month-old British Shorthair, went viral on TikTok (@meo.toffee) after mistaking the sand in Monterey Bay, California, for cat litter.
Cat litter is usually made from paper, wood, silica, corn, wheat, or Fuller's earth, but Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in London states that "most cats tend to prefer non-scented litter that most resembles sand."
A clip showing the kitten in a pink harness, attached to a leash, digging into the sand and discreetly having a wee has racked up 2.2 million views since June 14.
According to a vet-reviewed article published by Catster, it's crucial to clean up after cats properly to prevent the spread of parasites like Toxoplasma, which can pose health risks to both humans and other animals.
Taking Care of Your Cats at the Beach
Taking your cat to the beach requires careful consideration and preparation to ensure their safety and well-being. Here are eight essential tips for an enjoyable beach day with your feline friend:
Avoid beach outings during hot summer days, as cats are susceptible to heat stroke—a potentially fatal condition if not addressed promptly. Always provide fresh water, access to shade, and ensure proper ventilation during transport to and from the beach. Check local beach regulations beforehand, as some pet-friendly locations may not permit cats. Only take your cat if they are likely to enjoy the experience, and prioritize their comfort throughout the visit. Make sure your cat is up to date on vaccinations and is microchipped in case they get lost. Protect them from stray animals and off-leash dogs, which could pose a danger. Sand is generally safe for cats, but it can contain toxins, sharp objects, or become dangerously hot, risking injury to their paw pads. Unlike dogs, cats are less likely to eat sand, but they should still be supervised at all times to ensure their safety.
TikTok Reacts
A stock image of a grey cat sitting on the sand.
A stock image of a grey cat sitting on the sand.
Danieloncarevic/iStock/Getty Images Plus
So far, the video has received over 314,000 likes and 530 comments.
"She be like, 'What a good human—they got me a huge litter box,'" said one user.
Another wrote: "She's very modest, I must say! Mine just stands and stares at us while she does her business."
A third user added: "I mean, it kind of is! That's why cats get used to litter so quickly—in the wild, they go in sand or soft dirt."
Newsweek reached out to @meo.toffee for comment. 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.
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