We know- cats have a reputation of being lone predators who dislike too many hugs. However, this does not mean that they can’t build strong friendships with humans.

In the pictures that follow, we have collected the twenty most heartwarming moments of cat and soldier friendships, proving that cats do care and that soldiers are not monsters.

1. Kitten

This soldier in Afghanistan is taking a selfie with a kitten. What a sweet and sour moment indeed.

2. Got Your Back

This kitten is serving as a rearguard and it’s loving it! So nice of the soldier to carry it along.

3. Co-sleeping

What could be more comforting than a kitty sleeping on you during such hard times? Afghanistan 2009.

4. Happy

Isn’t it incredible how animals can make you feel happy even if you’re thousands of miles away from home in a war zone?

5. Irony

The sight of a soldier feeding a kitten is in a way ironic- destruction versus affection.

6. You’ve Been Chosen

It doesn’t matter who you are, if you and a cat are meant to be together you will be. And this cat decided she’s meant to be with him.

7. Beware

Don’t get too close, this soldier’s pocket could bite!

8. Undercover

These kittens have the perfect colors to work as undercover agents. Hired.

9. Sharing Is Caring

When you don’t mind sharing your food with a friend! They both look okay with that!

10. Wow!

We knew men in uniform were popular, but had no idea this worked for cats too!

11. Priorities

Yes, he wants to get hold of these warm clothes, but he also wants to make sure kitty is comfortable there.

12. Safe

The kitty feels safe sleeping next to this guy, and he sure feels happy feeling it purr!

13. Affection

Don’t be fooled by the uniform and weapons- soldiers still have love and affection to give.

14. Working Cat

When you tell everyone the cat is just there to catch mice, but deep down you know you want it as a therapy animal.

15. Helping Paw

Not sure whether the cat is there on a mission, but it’s definitely looking the part.

16. Melts Hearts

What’s better than a big tough guy feeding a kitten? Two big tough guys feeding it!

17. Pawtrol

When you’re on patrol with your favorite buddy!

18. Favorite Item

When on a mission make sure you don’t forget to bring the most important thing- the kitten!

19. Best Buddies

When your best buddy is a cat, you really don’t need anything else. Okay maybe a few things if you’re a soldier, but the cat is definitely what counts the most.

20. Dinner Time

What do you mean you’re surprised? Of course you take your favorite buddy to dinner with you!

We hope you enjoyed these pictures as much as we did- they prove love and care can flourish in the most unexpected places, even in a warzone. What could be more optimistic than that?

Let’s not forget that animals can play an important role after the soldiers have returned home, too. Especially for those who suffer from PTSD. But, sometimes, it seems this healing process is already starting during deployment, when they find the right animal to be friends with.

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Source: Bored Panda, csustan.edu