During a cold, snowy winter day, a couple living in a rural area found an abandoned house cat seeking shelter near their home—they immediately took him in, and now he lives his best life with his new family.
In a viral Instagram video shared on Friday under the username @lifeinaloghome, the fluffy gray kitty can be seen wandering in the snow all alone, hiding near the poster’s shed in the freezing weather.
“To the person who dumped your cat on one of the coldest days… And left him searching for shelter under our garden shed. Leaving him out in the cold. I’m glad he found us. Because no one goes hungry or thirsty on our watch!” reads layover text in the clip.
“Now he has an insulated kitty shelter. It’s been kitty approved. And Ralphie, as he’s been named, is very happy. Ralphie has approved his temporary shelter. Ralphie is being fed daily and has a heated water dish. He’s also an expert biscuit maker. Welcome to your new home Ralphie.”
The poster added in the caption that this is not the first time that an abandoned cat has appeared on their porch since moving into their home.
“Each time we ask around if anyone is missing a cat or knows who it belongs to. The answer is always the same ‘not our cat, don’t know who it belongs to.’ It seems, sadly, that abandoned and dumped cats are commonplace in rural settings,” they said.
Cold weather poses serious risks for cats’ health, including hypothermia and frostbite. Wet fur, icy conditions and low temperatures can quickly make a cat dangerously cold, so it’s important to dry them off, watch for shivering or lethargy, and provide warm, draught‑free bedding.
Winter chemicals such as antifreeze, de‑icers and screen‑wash are highly toxic; even small amounts can be fatal if licked from paws or fur. Symptoms include vomiting, wobbliness, excessive drinking and later breathing problems or collapse, and any suspicion requires immediate veterinary help.
Cats that go outdoors need easy access back inside, especially during snow, frost or freezing rain. They should have a dry, insulated shelter and unfrozen water available.
Indoor cats also need warm resting spots, accessible resources and comfortable temperatures. Providing toys, climbing spaces and puzzle feeders helps keep them active and mentally stimulated throughout the winter.
The video quickly went viral on social media and it has so far received over 593,000 views and 61,600 likes on the platform.
One user, Michelle.bustillos, commented: “What a cutie️. So sad, but thank I for making him comfortable and loved.”
Lynwendy5 said: “Please bring him inside your home. He looks so adorable and just needs love and food.”
Rachel.robillard_ wrote: “Awe what a horrible thing to do. Thanks for helping him.”
Newsweek reached out to @lifeinaloghome for comment via Instagram. We could not verify the details of the case.
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