There is a saying that absence makes the heart grow fonder.

This saying rings especially true these days as physical distancing remains the norm. Many people have yet to see their loved ones face to face. Though virtual meetings are easy to organize, sharing the same physical space with friends and family is a privilege many still long for.

Cats are no loners

Cats are known for needing space and alone time. However, those who have cats can attest that they can be very attached to their humans. They also tend to share deep bonds with fellow pets who live in the same space.

Cats’ friendships are not limited to fellow felines though. It may be surprising to some, but it is well-documented that cats can be very good friends with dogs too. Their rivalry weakens when they get to interact with each other often.

This cat loves his canine friend

This is Jasper. He is a beautiful gray cat who lives with his humans and his best friend, a blind dog named Coco.

Coco was able to see when she was a puppy. However, at the age of nine, she was afflicted with Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration or SARDS. According to VCA Hospitals, SARDS is:

“…a condition that causes rapid and irreversible blindness due to changes within the retina. This condition develops over a period of 30 days or less, though some cases may come on more gradually. In many cases, the blindness associated with SARDS seems to come on almost overnight, as animals suddenly reach the point where they can no longer compensate for their decreased vision.”

Coco had to live a few hours away

Coco and Jasper lived with Nicole and her family. One day, Nicole’s mom found a job. The work required her to relocate a few hours away. She took Coco with her because her disability meant that she had specific needs. Nicole believed it would be better if she attended to Coco personally.

Jasper missed his buddy terribly

Coco’s absence meant that Jasper was now alone in the house. Some might think this would be a welcome change for the cat, but Jasper missed his bud a lot. When Coco was finally set to come home, Nicole decided to record their reunion.

Coco was coming home but Jasper was unaware

In the video, that has been viewed over 2.5 million times, we see Jasper restlessly pacing around the house. He goes from one place to another seemingly bored and fidgety. He paces around and looks sullenly at the camera his mom is holding.

Surprise! Coco is home

Jasper continues to pace about. He is totally unaware of what is about to happen. After a few seconds, we see Jasper seemingly sensing something is up.

Then, the cute kitty realizes that his best friend is entering the door. He rushes to Coco’s side to greet her. He is clearly glad to have her back.

Side by side they go

When the two finally meet, their normal habits fall into place. Jasper happily follows his friend around as the canine inspects her old home.

Sometimes, Coco walks with a bit of extra speed and leaves Jasper behind. The cat does not seem to mind. He happily and quietly catches up.

Coco and Jasper forever

Even though Jasper was happy to tag along, Coco wanted to show her friend her love too. At one point in the video, the dog turns around and cutely greets her buddy. It is as if she wants to assure him that she will make time for him once she inspects every corner of the house!

A lot of things have happened since then

Since the video was shot and uploaded on YouTube, major life events have occurred. Today, Coco is no longer around as old age caught up with her. While his humans are sad, his mom wrote this on YouTube:

“She was the sweetest most beautiful dog I could have asked for. She passed on her birthday at exactly 14 years old. It was very sudden and probably the worst thing I’ve ever witnessed. I miss her so much but I’d like to believe that shes running around like a puppy again and has her vision back 🤗 Millions of people have come across this video and I felt it was only right to update everyone. I’m just happy I have this video to remember her by forever. Go give your pets a treat tonight 🐾🐾 Rest in Peace Coco 💗💕”

Surely, Jasper misses his buddy but knows inside his heart that his best friend, Coco, is happy in pet heaven.

Watch their adorable reunion below.

Please SHARE this touching and emotional video of Jasper and Coco with your friends and family.

Source: Instagram, VCA Hospitals, YouTube