Every morning at exactly 5:44 a.m., a California woman begins a detailed routine to care for the 20 rescue cats and one dog who share her home.
In a viral TikTok video posted in April by @catladyburner, 33-year-old Karly gives viewers a glimpse into her daily life. Her morning tasks include feeding the animals, cleaning their spaces, and ensuring their environment is safe and comfortable—chores that take more than two and a half hours each day.
“It’s a full-time job,” Karly told Newsweek. Each of the animals she cares for was rescued, many from dangerous or unhealthy conditions.
“We have 20 wonderful rescue kitties here,” she said. “They all have their own little personalities and quirks. Most have had really rough lives outdoors before coming in. Some needed months of treatment for serious health issues.”
Living outside exposes cats to many dangers, Karly explained, including cars, predators, diseases, and abuse. “We bring them in so they don’t ever have to worry about these things again. They are all healthy and happy now. Our house is full of love with them here.”
Karly lives in an area with a large population of feral cats and where kittens are frequently abandoned. She takes in cats that are not suitable for adoption, often working with feral cats who need time and patience to adjust to indoor life.
“I try to get the friendly cats adopted into loving homes,” she said. “If I can’t find the right home, they stay here.”
According to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), between 60 and 100 million feral cats live in the United States. Many suffer from diseases such as feline AIDS, herpes viral conjunctivitis, leukemia, and feline infectious peritonitis. These cats also pose a risk to wildlife, killing millions of birds and small mammals each year.
Karly’s video quickly gained attention online, earning more than 90,900 views and 15,400 likes. Viewers praised her dedication and the care she provides.
“Proof you can be a clean cat lady lol—they are definitely well taken care of,” one user commented.
Another added: “You’re out here living my dream life. Thank you for taking care of all those little babies!”
A third said simply: “I can tell you really love your animals.”
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