Internet obsessed with cat caught “spooning” tortoises
An unlikely friendship between a cat and two tortoises has pulled on TikTok users’ heartstrings.
Racking up over 108,000 views, the clip shows the moment a tuxedo cat called Bob was caught red-handed hanging out inside the reptiles’ enclosure.
But the 6-month-old feline isn’t causing any harm to the rescued tortoises named Taco and Shell, instead basking beneath the heat lamp with his paws placed on one of their shells.
While this trio seems to be getting along just fine, animal expert Axel Lagercrantz told Newsweek: “It is unlikely, but not impossible, that an adult cat would try to eat a tortoise.
“As everyone knows, cats are natural hunters and are often curious about smaller animals. Most cats would generally just be interested in observing a tortoise rather than wanting to do it harm.”

TikTok/@tacoshellandbob
Lagercrantz, CEO of Pets4Homes, the U.K.’s largest pet rehoming site, advises owners to always supervise their furry friends when around tortoises.
“Even if the cat isn’t trying to eat it, it may try to swat at it, stressing the tortoise out and potentially harming it,” he said. “Overall, if you maintain supervision and manage the tortoise’s enclosure and environment well, it’s certainly possible for tortoises and cats to coexist peacefully.”
In the comments, one user said: “Not saying don’t do it, just sharing an experience. My husband’s cat fell through his turtle’s enclosure once and killed his turtles.”
The owner responded, “Aww, that’s sad. Fortunately for us, this idiot isn’t very subtle, and he’s not allowed in the room unless we are in when they are bathing.”
The owner also told another user that Bob “loves” them and follows them around.
Newsweek is waiting for @tacoshellandbob provide a comment.
The January 5 video has delighted users, with many laughing at Bob’s reaction when he is busted. Making no effort to leave the enclosure, instead, it looks like he has been disturbed by his owner as he attempts to go back to sleep.
Or, as one person asked, “Is he playing dead?”
Another user said: “Caught spooning with his arms round one.”
“He identifies as a tortoise now,” joked a third commenter.
Bob’s friendship is proof that cats can integrate with other animals, but Lagercrantz warns that it can “be a risky business.”
He told Newsweek: “Cats are naturally solitary animals and skilled hunters, and some don’t like sharing their home with new companions. When choosing whether to have multiple pets, one important factor to consider is your cat’s temperament.
“If your cat is social, easy going, non-territorial and adaptable, you will have the best chance of success in integrating new pets into the household.”
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to [email protected] with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.