Leo is trying to be a tough guy. The stunning cat was all attitude, stalking some neighborhood birds from a comfortable perch inside a window. But when the cat comes face to face with the birds, Leo turns into a scaredy cat who needs an assist from Mom.

In a sidesplitting social media video viewers call “so cute,” Leo can be seen “hunting” birds from the comfort of his human’s living room window. The ferocious feline sits on his perch behind the couch, making chattering motions at the birds flying by outside. Leo shows the bravado of a prizefighter until Mom takes him outside and he comes close to the birds without the protection of the window separating them.

Terrified, Leo scurries back to the house. So scared of the feathered friends, Leo doesn’t even take the time to use his cat door, instead rushing inside as Mom opens the door, laughing at her scaredy kitten’s antics.

“That’s an indoor cat right there,” joked one viewer. Another commented, “Survival instinct of a calculator.”

“Stop, he’s so cute,” urged another.

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Why Indoor Cats React Differently to Birds

While cats aren’t generally scared of birds, Leo may in fact be a seasoned indoor cat. To most cats, birds are neutral prey, which means they are more exciting than terrifying. Most cats see birds as playthings or prey, which is why you’ll often see cats stalking or pouncing on them. The chattering behavior Leo shows at the beginning of the video is typical of cats while stalking birds.

Sadly for Leo, his meow is worse than his bite. Without the protection of the window, this indoor cat is as timid as a mouse in close proximity to the birds.

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This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Dec 25, 2025, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.