Cat Daddy: How One Tiny Kitten Saved My Sanity

At the start of 2025, my mental health was in a rough place. A year filled with personal struggles, heavy memories, and a history of trauma had left me drained. I knew I needed a change — something positive to help me heal. That’s when I started hearing more about how pets, especially cats, can be amazing companions for mental well-being.

I’d always been more of a dog person growing up, but I liked cats too. When I mentioned this to my closest friend, who owned several cats (one of which was pregnant), she suggested something simple but life-changing:

“Why don’t you adopt one of my kittens when they’re born?”

At first, it sounded like a nice idea. But the more I thought about it, the more it felt like the right step. That’s how my journey to becoming a “Cat Daddy” began.

The Plan

After my birthday in February, I made up my mind — I was going to adopt one of her kittens. I still had weeks to wait until they were born, so I used that time to prepare myself mentally.

I’d already decided on a name: Bagheera, after my favorite character from The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling. Bagheera, the wise and protective black panther, felt like the perfect name for my future feline friend.

Finally, the day came. My friend told me the kittens were ready for new homes. I headed over to meet them for the first time.

Choosing Bagheera

It didn’t take me long to know which kitten was meant for me. Out of the lively bunch, there was one feisty kitten named Demon who hissed at me — so she was out of the running. While most of the others ran and climbed all over me, there was one little kitten who simply curled up in my lap, calm and still.

There was a warmth in that moment, an instant connection. I knew this was my Bagheera. I scooped her up, packed her into her carrier, and took her home. The moment we arrived, she explored my apartment like she owned it — bouncing around, playing with toys, and claiming the space as hers.

Becoming a Cat Dad

Getting the supplies was the easy part. Food, litter box, and a few essentials didn’t even cost me $50. What I worried about was whether I could truly care for her. I’d never had a pet of my own before.

To my surprise, I adapted quickly. I potty-trained her without much trouble and even managed bath time — though she did leave me with plenty of scratches as souvenirs.

The real question was whether this would help my mental health. And the answer? Absolutely.

A Positive Distraction

Bagheera’s presence has been a blessing. She isn’t just a pet — she’s a friend, a roommate, and a source of comfort. Every day when I come home from work, she runs to greet me as soon as I call her name. She leaps into my arms like she’s been waiting all day just to see me.

It’s a feeling that’s hard to describe. On days when I don’t feel lovable, she reminds me I am loved. On days when I doubt my worth, she’s a living reminder that I matter.

Her playful nature makes me laugh. Her calm moments make me feel at peace. And her unconditional affection is helping me heal in ways I didn’t expect.

The Healing Journey

I’m still on the road to recovery, but Bagheera has made that journey brighter. She gives me purpose on days when I feel low, and she offers quiet companionship on nights when I need peace.

Looking back, I’m thankful for my best friend who offered me this opportunity — and for the little kitten who turned out to be so much more than just a pet.

Becoming a Cat Daddy wasn’t part of my original life plan, but it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

If you’ve ever felt lost, lonely, or weighed down by life, maybe the answer isn’t in a big, complicated change. Sometimes, healing can come in the form of four tiny paws, a warm purr, and a creature who looks at you like you’re their whole world.

For me, that creature is Bagheera S’mores — my little black panther, my shadow, my healer. And I wouldn’t trade her for anything.