Developing a bond with an animal is one of the most incredible experiences in life. JB is what some would call his dad’s “heart cat,” a cat who takes a special place in your heart and changes you forever. He came into his life at a perfect time and blended in seamlessly.
A special bond
Like many cat dads, JB’s dad didn’t expect to become so attached. “I honestly didn’t think I’d really love an animal as much as I love him,” he said.
He and his wife adopted JB from the Humane Society when he was just two or three months old. He was immediately drawn to his playfulness, as JB was swatting at their ankles and trying to climb his pants. When he held him, he was calm and seemed like he belonged.
Meeting his baby brother
The couple already had a newborn at home who was six weeks old. JB’s dad worried about how he’d interact with the baby and if he could be gentle with him.
Two weeks later, JB was climbing into the baby’s crib. This worried the new parents as well–what if JB laid on the baby’s face or scratched him? What if the infant had a cat allergy they didn’t know about?
Instead, the two became best friends and continued to sleep side by side. As the baby grew, they’d go on to play with each other as well. JB has never shown any aggression toward him.
Their parents are glad that their human son has a pet to grow up with, and they couldn’t have found him a better companion than JB.
Choosing favorites
Like many cats, JB has a favorite person–his dad! His second favorite is his human brother, followed by his mom.
JB loves to give hugs and hang out on his dad’s shoulders. He follows him all around the house, from waiting right outside the bathroom to joining him for cuddles on the couch. If he sits to do anything, JB is jumping into his lap right away.
While JB is a sweet, affectionate cat, he only behaves this way with some people. For instance, he isn’t as cuddly with his mom. As his dad says, “He’s either in my lap, playing with Asher, or he’s by himself.”
While the family also has two German Shepherds, JB doesn’t interact with them often. He prefers to show his superiority by taking over their dog beds or the entire couch, leaving them to sleep on the floor. Despite the dogs’ size, JB is definitely the boss! “They give him the respect he deserves,” his dad says.
JB has made being a human and cat dad a more positive experience and showed his dad how special it is to bond with an animal. He adapted so quickly to his new family that bringing him home felt easy, like it was always meant to be.
You can learn more about JB and his family on his mom Kamri’s TikTok.