What Woman Discovers After Adopting 19-Year-Old Cat Might Make You Cry

Cats are often known to be independent and stand-offish, but true cat owners know under that facade, they are a big pile of mush, and a recent first-time cat owner has learned very quickly how true that is for her adopted feline.

TikTok user @amynorthwood1 recently adopted a 19-year-old cat. She wasn't even looking for a cat when she saw the post from the shelter, she told Newsweek via TikTok. The cat was living with a foster family after his owner of 19 years died.

"We work from home so I knew we'd be able to offer the perfect retirement for him," she said. Plus, she knew senior cats are often overlooked and she wanted to give him a chance.

The caption reads: "I honestly can't tell you how much I love this guy. My little old man."

The cat took a few months to adjust to his final forever home. He would do his own thing, which is common for adopted animals. They usually need time to decompress from the shelter or change of environment. The owner understood that and was just thrilled that he could have a home in his retirement.

Then he became the "cuddliest guy" almost overnight. She learned that he is loving and sweet, or as she put it, she learned he is the "best cat in the world."

The precious clip brought viewers to tears over her touching act of adopting a senior animal. Older animals are often overlooked by potential adopters because of their age, possible vet bills or lower energy levels.

Younger animals are adopted at a 60 percent adoption rate compared to senior pets with a 25 percent rate in the United States, according to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. But shelters are in need of people like this TikTok user to take a chance on the senior animals as places are overcrowded.

The video had 7,047 views, nearly 900 likes and 25 comments by Tuesday.

"Such a happy chill boy, enjoying retirement," said one viewer.

Another added: "Thank you for adopting him he's so lucky to have you."

"Thank you for taking him when so few others would. You'll make his twilight years the best he's ever had, and that is so incredibly meaningful."

Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.