Cats are known to be among the most agile animals out there, excelling in athletic activities such as catrobatics and cat yoga.
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One talented feline named Millie has an uncanny aptitude for rock climbing — proving once again that cats are superior to humans.
Millie’s owner Craig Armstrong likes to explore the deserts, canyons, and mountains of Utah with his furry companion.
“I go on a lot of weekend climbing adventures. I always figured when I have a pet friend, I’ll take her with me,” Armstrong says.
He adds: “It never seemed odd to me, just seems like something I’d do with my pet, take her places.”
Armstrong and Millie met at an adoption centre a while back. “She climbed up my back and sat on my shoulders,” Armstrong says. “It took about four seconds to realize we were now partners and would be going on many journeys together.”
Millie had to go through an extensive training program before being allowed to climb outdoors.
The adventurous kitten has to be properly equipped, too: Millie’s gear consists of a harness, a leash, and some rope.
“She’s a 5.4 – 5.5 climber. Generally she does best on slabby routes where she can scramble from ledge to ledge,” Armstrong says.
“She’s an incredible athlete but steep juggy routes just aren’t her thing. When bouldering, though, she’s done some pretty amazing gaps and dynos.”
Armstrong christens his hikes with Millie “catting”. Yeah, we know, he probably could have come up with something better.
Millie’s climbing prowess even extends to their home life: the kitten scales cabinets and other tall structures inside the house.
With the amount of fun these two are having, it doesn’t look like their rock climbing trips are coming to an end any time soon.
Armstrong says: “Millie has all the qualities a good climbing partner should have.”
“She never complains, no matter how bad it gets. She always wants to go higher, and she pushes herself hard. But she also knows when to stop,” he beams proudly.
Keep up with this rock-climbing kitty on Instagram.