Sam Felstead, 42, of Nottinghamshire, England, suffered a heart attack in the early evening of August 8 while sleeping at home. His 7-year-old cat Billy noticed the change in his owner and began jumping on Felstead’s chest and meowing as loudly as he could until Felstead woke up. “He doesn’t usually sit with me, but he knew something was wrong because he wouldn’t leave me alone,” Felstead told the BBC. “I think he saved my life.”
Felstead stated that she was outside in the evening with her dogs and feeling fine. She went to sleep when suddenly, she woke up covered in sweat, unable to move. Her cat, Billy, was lying on her chest, meowing loudly into her ear. Billy’s meowing eventually woke Felstead up, realizing she had a heart attack. She called for an ambulance.
“The doctors said it was a good job. I got to the hospital in time,” she added.
After staying in the hospital for three days and undergoing an angioplasty, Felstead has returned to work as usual. However, she is now on medication for her heart condition.
Cats have long been known for their ability to sense when something is wrong with their human companions, but this story reminds us how much they can help us in our time of need.
Billy’s quick thinking and alertness undoubtedly saved Felstead’s life that night, as heart attacks can be fatal if not treated immediately. Cats are often lauded for their abilities as loyal and loving companions, but this story reminds us of how much they can do for us.