A resident cat at a Home Depot store in New Jersey has achieved full-blown social media stardom, with the added benefit of attracting new customers to the business.
Jeffrey Simpkins, the individual behind the viral TikTok videos featuring Leo the cat, shared that his intention was to document the feline after their first encounter at the Mount Laurel store last month.
“The very first one I did, the first day it hit 4.5 million [views],” Simpkins told WTFX-TV. “I’m happy if I get 1,000 views on a video before this.”
Simpkins also told WPVI-TV that Leo’s devoted fans are drawn to “his unique personality, like he’s friendly, he wears clothing unlike other cats, and he has several places he sleeps at.”
According to store employees, Leo was originally a barn cat brought to the Home Depot about a year ago to help address a mouse infestation issue. The employees have taken on the responsibility of caring for Leo, ensuring he receives regular vet check-ups and has a place to rest when the store closes on holidays.
Some customers have gone out of their way to visit the store just to catch a glimpse of Leo.
“It is the last week of summer, so we figured let’s go see the cat and make the most of it and see if we can be part of his fan club,” explained Cherry Hill resident Michelle Lythberg. Leo has not only warmed the hearts of Home Depot shoppers but has also become a symbol of the sense of community and shared admiration that social media can bring.
