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Dogs have continued to grab the spotlights as hiking partners with their owners. But a recent adventurous journey has defied the usual as a 25-year-old student got her beloved pet cat to accompany her to scale the picturesque Welsh Mountains. Juliet Turner with her exceptional whiskered companion embarked on a breath-taking adventurous journey into the heart of nature. 

Casper who was once a house cat has set foot in the outer world and to everyone’s surprise, has emerged as an intrepid explorer. The little adorable creature is now nothing short of a viral sensation as social media enthusiasts wait eagerly for updates on the adventure cat’s hiking journeys. Let’s join the two in their thrill-seeking journey which has unfolded as a tale of curiosity, courage, and a priceless bond defying conventional norms of pet companionship.

PhD student and feline companion take on nature’s wonders

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Juliet Turner is a young PhD student from Oxford University who has been sharing videos of her cat doing the unconventional on Instagram @adventuresofcasperthecat. Turner reveals Casper’s behavior while they go out hiking. I like how much attention he pays to the details of the world when we’re hiking. He looks at things so closely, wants to smell and understand everything”, Turner shared with Newsweek.

Turner further shared that Casper is “so full of curiosity and wonder” and his observation skills often force her to stop and take notice of the intricate elements surrounding them in the mesmerizing landscapes in an even better manner. From autumn leaves to beautiful birds all around and even crickets on the grass Casper notices every minute thing with utmost attention. Turner reveals that it feels “really wonderful to watch him have so many experiences that are new to him”.

On the same note Four Paws International, a global animal welfare organization, has shared on their website that an indoor cat develops an affinity towards the outsiders world if not taken out enough often they would react. They shared, “If you fail to satisfy this demand, you should expect some unwelcome consequences, such as scratch marks on the furniture or urine puddles around the home.”

Casper is Maine Coon and was adopted by Turner from another family who wanted to rehome the feline friend as the family was shifting. And, from the initial days, Casper became the hiking partner of Turner.

Turner and Casper’s mountain escapades, a purrfect adventure

With each passing day, Turner is discovering more about Casper’s likings and interests. She said, “I’m learning more about what he enjoys and what he finds stressful. For example, he seems more comfortable in places like heathland or woodland where there’s lots of shelter and I guess it feels a bit more enclosed and safe.” Recently the two went for a hike to North Wales and both enjoyed a particular place, Cors Bodgynydd where Casper seemed really happy.

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Casper, unlike dogs, prefers craggy places instead of an open empty field. Turner has got Casper a special and unique harness so that he enjoys his freedom of movement and is also provided with occasional treats. Turner also shared the cons and challenges of unleashing an indoor cat in the open. Turner, sharing her experiences, said, “I stay very vigilant when I’m out with Casper, and I’m always checking to see if any dogs have appeared.” She further tried to explain, “If there are dogs in the park then we go to the other side to keep away from them. We’ve had a few close encounters where off-lead dogs excitedly ran up to us and Casper growled at them and I had to pick him up and carry him away.”

Turner’s Casper is nothing short of Susan Finden’s ‘Casper, the commuting cat’ who was a sensation back in 2009 for traveling via bus regularly. 

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What are your thoughts on Casper’s and Turner’s bond and friendship? Are you also blessed with a feline companion? Do let us know in the comment section below.

Watch This Story: Essential Tips for Safely Hiking With Your Cat