The Lunar New Year is supposed to be a time for family reunions, but a family in Yichang, Hubei, China, found themselves in the awkward situation of being “unable to return home.” On the evening of New Year’s Eve (February 16), the family went out for a reunion dinner, but while returning home midway to fetch something, they discovered that no one had brought a key, and it was especially difficult to find a locksmith during the festive period. They were left stranded outside their own door. Fortunately, the family’s “master” became their savior—within just five minutes, the resident cat managed to open the door and avert the crisis.
According to Chinese media reports, Ms. Hu and her family were locked out of their house on New Year’s Eve and didn’t know what to do. Suddenly, someone had a bright idea—to see if their cat, who was also outside the door, could help. They passed the cat back into the house through a window and used its favorite treat, a “cat stick,” to lure it from outside the door. Prompted by the delicious snack, the cat didn’t disappoint—skilfully jumping up and pulling down the door handle. In about five minutes, the furry hero successfully opened the door, allowing the whole family back inside.
“Door-opening Skill” Was Once a Source of Trouble
Ms. Hu later shared that this clever cat is five years old and had already learned how to open doors at home—a “skill” that used to trouble the family quite a bit. Unexpectedly, the cat’s special ability was called into service at just the right moment, earning great merit. To reward their “hero,” the family immediately served up a can of premium cat food.
The story went viral online, with many internet users praising the cat for its intelligence: “This is a feline genius—give it even more canned food!” and “Master: Where would you be without me?” Some also reminded the family that, since the cat knows how to open doors, it’s best to double-lock doors at home to prevent it from getting out and getting lost.