Cat becomes viral sensation after turtle-like behavior at Lakewood shelter

DENVER ( KDVR ) — A timid cat at a local shelter has become an internet sensation all because of a bean bag chair.

A few weeks ago, staff at Cat Care Society in Lakewood first filmed what appeared to be a bean bag moving around with no one in sight. Come to find out, it was Theodore, a cat new to the shelter, who has since developed a worldwide fan base as the shy “turtle” cat.

Shelter staff posted the original video in late September of a white bean bag moving throughout the floor and sliding in between litter boxes. At the end of the video, Theodore can be seen peaking his head out from under the bean bag, with a note on top of the chair reading:

“Do not sit or step on me! My name is Theodore + I identify as a turtle and am under here!”

The first video tallied 1.8 million views and counting, which began the start of Theodore’s viral journey through the shelter.

Staff said that after a few days at the shelter, Theodore was out from under the bean bag, however, he still goes back every so often. The staff started posting more TikToks based on whether Theodore was having a “turtle day” where he stayed under the bean bag or a “brave day” where he explored his room.

Hundreds of comments flood each video of Theodore with praise for the cat, with some viewers even using Theodore as encouragement.

“If Theo can be brave today… I can to,” said one user on one of the cat’s “brave days. ”

Since the video was posted, many viewers asked more questions about the adoption process, including if the cat was going to be taken home with his “protective shell.” The shelter then responded, saying they’d be happy to send the shell home with Theodore.

On Monday, the shelter announced that Theodore is on an adoption hold and the cat is one step closer to finding a home. While Theodore’s followers are happy for his forever home, many are sad to see him go from the TikTok page.

“Sad to see him go….crying happy tears,” said one user.

While Theodore may soon be gone Cat Care Society , which now has 10K followers on TikTok, says it will continue to post about the cats still up for adoption.

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