We always love seeing dogs and cats defy the stereotype that they don’t get along. In many cases, they form the closest bonds. Even when a dog’s paws are larger than a kitten, they can be the gentlest of giants. Kittens raised with a “nanny” dog often have a better chance of finding a loving home. One heartwarming example comes from the UK, where an oversized dog named Gunner the Stunner helped raise foster kittens, leaving us feeling all warm and fuzzy.
Gunner the ‘House Hippo’ Loves Cats and Kittens
Gunner the Stunner is a registered ‘American Bully’ dog, affectionately nicknamed a ‘House Hippo.’ On social media, he and his owner, O. Pavez, raise awareness about the “American XL Bully,” a breed known for its gentle nature despite being banned in the UK. When Gunner goes for walks, he wears a large muzzle as required by law.
Despite his size, ‘Uncle Gunner’ identifies more as a Mama Cat than a dog. Recently, when the family took in a pregnant tabby, the mama cat became distressed when Gunner wasn’t standing guard outside the box where she was preparing to give birth!
“My XL Bully was my cat’s birthing partner,” Pavez shared.
As the mama cat was about to go into labor, Pavez tried to escort the gentle giant out of the room.
But to her amazement, the cat protested, crying and searching for Gunner. Only when he returned to the room did the mama cat relax and settle back into her birthing box.
Gunner: The Gentle Guardian
“He stayed for hours with her, being very patient and keeping her company,” Pavez said.
Gunner remained nearby, vigilantly checking on the tabby until she finally gave birth.
From the very beginning, he became a model nanny to the kittens,
always staying close and offering his gentle support.
As the mother cat nursed her litter, Gunner would sweetly lay beside them, demonstrating incredible gentleness and care.
Gunner the Stunner: The Sweetest Nanny
As the kittens grew, Gunner remained their constant guardian, watching over them as they played in their tent area. Instinctively, he stayed still as they climbed and played around him. The mother cat trusted him completely, often nuzzling him affectionately. It was clear from the start that she knew this gentle giant would help her care for her babies.
“She loves and trusts him,” Pavez said of the tabby.
When the kittens were weaned to solid food, Gunner even shared his meals with them!
Foster Kittens Raised with Dogs
Kittens raised alongside gentle dogs often have a better chance of finding forever homes. True to form, each of the kittens in Gunner’s care was eventually adopted by loving families.
As we’ve shared before, raising foster kittens with a trusted, gentle dog can be a fantastic idea. And witnessing these adorable interactions is an added reward! What could be cuter?
Here’s Gunner with the family’s adult British Shorthair. As you can see, this dog’s gentle and tolerant nature knows no bounds!
You can follow Gunner the Stunner on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
