Tears as cat and golden retriever comfort each other during thunderstorm (2024)

By Lucy Notarantonio

Senior Life and Trends Reporter

Cats and dogs are sometimes thought to be archenemies, but social media have proved that they can often get along.

Recently, a TikTok video from @barns_adventures revealed that cats do have a soft side. Nala the tabby can be seen comforting April, her golden retriever friend. The on-screen text says that there was a thunderstorm in their hometown of Houston and that they've both always "been scared of thunder."

The clip, captioned "[Be right back] crying my eyes out," has amassed 358,500 views and 67,300 likes since it was shared Tuesday.

The footage shows Nala licking April's head, and their owner Luis, 32, points out that they "both love each other so much."

"Nala and April bonded since they met. Nala is the only cat that April likes and April is the only dog, she likes," he told Newsweek.

The heartwarming clip had almost 170 users commenting. One person said: "You could've warned me I'd be crying in public over this."

"A literal emotional support animal," said another.

"I'm crying but also cackled at how the cat was like "ooop we got caught being vulnerable," said another, referring to the end of the video where Nala appears to play it cool by acting as if nothing had happened when she notices her owner is watching.

Five Tips to Help Your Dog Weather a Storm

While these adorable animals can rely on each other for support, not all pets have a companion. Newsweek previously spoke to Joe Nutkins, a dog trainer based in the U.K., about ways to help a dog during a storm. Here are his suggestions:

1. Create a safe space for your dog to retreat to, as dogs naturally seek out den-type areas when scared. This could be a crate with a cover over it and cozy bedding inside or a table with a large blanket draped over and the dog bed underneath. Or open a cupboard or provide access under a bed. Finding a space where dogs feel secure means they can stay more grounded and work through their fears. Their safe space also may be lying behind you on the sofa so they have contact with you.
2. Look at foods known to help with calming, such as blueberries, pumpkin seeds, whole oats and even beef, which helps with the body's production of the stress hormone cortisol. By feeding your dog some calming foods during heavy rain, you can help your dog ahead of possible thunder.
3. If your dog loves to play, try inviting it to play with you and a toy when you hear the first rumble of thunder or see the first flash of lightning. It may be far enough away, or timed well enough with the play, that your dog's adrenalin can lift and help settle its fears. A game while the storm takes place can help in some cases, but if your dog is too worried, let it go to its safe space.
4. Walk your dog during the daytime where possible. It can be a good idea to use a harness as well as a collar for any walks when rain starts or thunderstorms are forecast. Scared dogs, when startled, can bolt, and this means they can easily get out of collars and harnesses. Dogs can go missing during sudden thunderstorms when they panic.
5. Keep a selection of favorite toys nearby or prepare an interactive toy with favorite treats as soon as you hear the first sign of thunder or see lightning. Then you can start a game with the toy or encourage your dog to use the interactive toy and find the treats. This can help create a positive association with the storm.

Update 4/03/24, 3:35 a.m. ET: This article was updated with comment from the owner. The numbers of likes and views have also been updated.

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