Life has a funny way of surprising us. One moment, you’re just going about your day, and the next, you’re thrown into a whole new chapter you never saw coming.
That’s exactly what happened to filmmaker Paris Zarcilla, now affectionately known online as #CatDad.
A Simple Trip for a Sweater Turned Into a Life-Changing Discovery
On May 29, 2018, Zarcilla walked into his bedroom to grab a sweater. Instead, he found something entirely unexpected—a mother cat and her newborn kittens hiding under his bed.
His reaction? A mix of shock, excitement, and immediate devotion.
His first tweet about the discovery quickly went viral:
“Trying to adjust to the catshit crazy reality of going upstairs to grab a jumper but instead finding a cat and 4 kittens. Am I dad now?”
The internet wasted no time in confirming—yes, yes he was.
An Adorable Existential Crisis
Zarcilla didn’t just accept his new role; he fully embraced it. His tweets became a live play-by-play of his transformation from unsuspecting guy to full-fledged Cat Dad.
“Cancelling all my plans. Crawling under the bed to spend the rest of the day with my four new children. #newdad”
It was impossible not to get caught up in his enthusiasm.
But beyond the cuteness overload, Zarcilla started reflecting on how much these tiny kittens were changing him.
“I feel like the veil of the universe is being lifted slightly. Like, I feel high. Is this what it feels like to have a child? I think I'm falling in love. F**.”*
“This is too much. I'm approaching nirvana. I legitimately suffer from anxiety attacks and depression, and my capacity to deal with it recently has been waning. The Cat Gods have smiled upon me with benevolence and turned the monsters under my bed into kittens.”
The Science Backs Him Up
Zarcilla isn’t alone in feeling this way. Studies have shown that having a pet—especially a cat or dog—can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve overall mental health. Unlike humans, animals don’t judge or expect anything beyond food, love, and the occasional belly rub.
And let’s be honest, cuddling with a tiny, purring kitten can feel like instant therapy.
From Accidental Cat Dad to Full-Time Feline Enthusiast
Zarcilla’s journey with his unexpected fur family has continued. His social media is now filled with cat updates, and he’s embraced his new life completely.
“I think I'm living the best day of my life. Wait, no. Actually, f** it, yes I am. This is the best.”*
And for those who want to keep up with his adventures? He’s expanded to platforms like YouTube and Twitch, where he shares even more of his Cat Dad life.
So, if you’ve ever dreamed of being chosen by a family of stray kittens, take notes from Zarcilla. Sometimes, the best things in life aren’t planned—they just show up under your bed.