At Xiyuan Temple in Suzhou, East China's Jiangsu Province, a kitten captivates visitors by high-fiving them with its paw. Photo: Screenshot from media reports

The kitten, named Tangdou, is 4 years old and weighs 8.25 kilograms. Its owner, surnamed Liu, said he began bringing Tangdou to the temple two years ago to sunbathe after treatments for ear mites left its ears damp, according to media outlet youth.cn. 

Tangdou’s weekend temple trips became routine, but its fame skyrocketed recently after viral videos of its high-five ritual drew crowds. Tourists flocked to the temple, some traveling long distances just to get "high-fives for good luck," turning the kitten’s leisurely strolls into "fan meet-and-greets."

Overwhelmed by the ever growing crowds, Tangdou has grown a little tired of responding to high-five requests. Some netizens jokingly posed the question online -- "Is it going on strike?" Others said, "This kitten’s face screams 'thank God it's Friday’”, said the report.

Amid accusations of exploiting and abusing the kitten for attention, Liu defended his care, saying, “We’ve always prioritized Tangdou’s well-being,” the Xiaoxiang Morning News reported.

Yet due to safety concerns from the surging crowds, Liu decided that he would not take Tangdou for a while, as he was worried it might be dangerous for the kitten, the report said.

Global Times