As Storm Goretti swept across the UK, bringing a mix of snow, rain, and strong winds, it wasn't just humans who were reacting to the sudden cold snap. A cat owner in the United States has captured the internet's heart by sharing her feline's hilarious and heartwarming first encounter with snow, offering a moment of light relief amidst the severe weather warnings.
Mercy the Cat's Frosty First Encounter
The social media video, posted on Instagram, shows a black cat named Mercy tentatively stepping out onto a snow-covered balcony in Vermont. Her owner carefully opened the door, allowing Mercy to investigate the unfamiliar white blanket that had settled overnight. The cat's initial confusion was palpable, with soft meows accompanying her cautious approach to the strange substance.
However, curiosity soon gave way to pure delight. Mercy fully embraced the experience, lying down and rolling in the snow until her sleek black fur was speckled with white flakes. The playful frolic was short-lived, though, as the cold eventually prompted a swift retreat back indoors. Her owner captioned the clip: "Mercy got to try a Vermont winter on for size. I think she liked it!"
Public Reaction and Weather Warnings
Viewers were enchanted by Mercy's joyful reaction. Comments flooded in, with one person declaring her a "snow baby" and another humorously noting she was like "a husky in a cat body." A third simply stated it was "the best video I've ever seen." Many also praised the cat's sensible behaviour, as she did not attempt to jump from the balcony or venture into deeper snow.
This charming moment unfolded against a backdrop of significant weather disruption in the UK. Storm Goretti arrived on Thursday, 8th January 2026, bringing challenging conditions. On Friday, 9th January, amber warnings for snow were in place for the Midlands, Wales, and the South West. Most of Scotland faced a yellow snow warning, while much of England was under yellow warnings for rain.
Authorities have advised the public to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary due to dangerous icy roads and strong winds. The warning extends to pets, with owners urged not to let cats roam freely in the freezing temperatures.
How to Keep Your Cat Safe in Winter Weather
Charities like Cats Protection offer crucial advice for pet owners during cold spells. If your cat is accustomed to going outside, they will likely still want to venture out. It is vital they have constant, unimpeded access back inside via a cat flap, as being locked out in sub-zero temperatures can be deadly.
Always check that cat flaps are not frozen or blocked by snow or ice. Ensure fresh water is available indoors, as outdoor sources may freeze. Make it a rule to have your cat inside at night when temperatures plummet, and consider locking the flap once they are home.
During forecasts of extreme weather, the safest option is to keep your cat indoors to prevent risks like frostbite or hypothermia. When they do come in, wipe their paws and coat to remove snow, grit, or harmful salt. Provide a litter tray so they don't need to go out to toilet, and remember to secure any open fireplaces which pose a burn risk.
While Mercy's viral moment shows the fun side of snow, it serves as a timely reminder for all pet owners to prioritise safety as winter tightens its grip.
