Siberian Cat Saying 'Hi' to Strangers While Kayaking Is Her Own Welcome Committee

There's a reason that cats get a lot of flack for not being the most friendly animals in the world: Many of them are a bit more reserved than dogs tend to be, and they aren't willing to immediately hand over their trust to a brand new person until they've gotten to know them better. That might make them seem standoffish, but personally, I think it just means they're taking their time to judge a person's character, and there's nothing wrong with that! After all, once a cat warms up to you, you have a friend for life.

Then, there are the cats who are unusually friendly, even to strangers... as surprised as those strangers might be. And considering the circumstances of this TikTok video, I bet the people were even more surprised to see a cat in a kayak in the first place! 

Before you ask, yes, this is a real Siberian Cat in a real kayak in this video from @freyja_siberian — and somehow, she's totally calm enough to not be freaking out and to meow a little "hi" to people passing by in their own kayak. Incredible! 

(Oh, and then there's the fact that the cat is wearing sunglasses and a life jacket, so she's safe and fashionable, all at the same time. This is just too much!)

According to a comment from the kitty's mom, this is only the second time that they've gone out in the kayak together, but somehow, her cat is already an old pro.

"We are still practicing how to kayak together but so far so good," she wrote in her caption. Yeah, I'll say, since a lot of cats would have completely freaked out! 

Going Kayaking With Your Cat

If this video has tempted you to get out there and go have an adventure with your own cat, I don't doubt you're not the only one, and fortunately, there's plenty of advice out there to help your kayaking trip go smoothly.

As The Hiking Cat points out, it's essential to start by gauging your cat's comfort levels with water. Are they freaked out by ponds or lakes outside, or are they more curious? If you've taken them hiking or for walks and they are absolutely stressed out by it, you might want to save the kayaking adventure for a future cat.

But if all seems good on that front, it's now time to start thinking about safety. Keep your cat on a harness and leash so you can grab them if they fall in, along with a carrier they can retreat to if they become overwhelmed. 

You should also supply your cat with a life jacket, along with cat-safe sunscreen (because yes, they can get sunburnt, just like us!). 

Above all, take your time, and remember that practice makes perfect. Your cat may not be a natural pro at kayaking, but they may just get there in time!