In Katy, a suburb of Houston, there’s a cat named Cleo making waves for his sneaky yet endearing habit.
This crafty cat has a knack for swiping socks, gloves, and even computer equipment from his neighbors, and everyone’s talking about his adorable mischief.
The Cat With a Mission
Cleo’s owner, Jeanne Wheat, finds herself in the strange position of being amused and apologetic about her furry friend’s thieving spree.
Starting at home, Cleo has since made his way through the neighborhood, nabbing anything from bathing suits to pricey shapewear.
“No garage or open car window is safe,” Jeanne says, recounting tales of Cleo’s boldness in entering neighbors’ homes.
Saying Sorry for the Socks
Cleo’s thievery has been captured on video, making him a local celebrity and a hot topic on social media.
His reputation has even led to a Cleo-themed T-shirt, with sales helping a nearby animal shelter.
The community takes Cleo’s antics in stride, finding joy in the lighthearted drama he brings. They’re often eager to see what Cleo will bring back next, enjoying the laughter that follows in the wake of his harmless crimes.
What’s the Motive?
Experts like Dr. Roberta Westbrook from the Houston SPCA suggest that Cleo’s attraction to soft and fluffy items is a natural behavior for cats, which they call “substrate affinity,” not a sign of any wrongdoing on Cleo’s part.
A Rebellious Cat
Jeanne has tried to discourage Cleo’s antics with little success. “I gave him a bit of a telling-off, hoping he might quit,” she admits.
“But it didn’t work. He’s like a teenager with his own set of rules.”
From Mischief to Social Media Fame
When faced with questions about his escapades, Cleo shows no guilt, living up to his feline nature.
His playful and purring demeanor suggests he’s more interested in being charming than repentant.
For the people of Katy, Cleo’s escapades have become a beloved story, a reminder of the fun and unity a mischievous cat can bring to a neighborhood, one adventurous day at a time.
