This Firehouse Cat Is Going Viral—And Might Just Be the Cutest Firefighter You’ve Ever Seen

In the heart of Arbutus, Maryland, a small, four-legged member of the local fire department is capturing hearts nationwide and racking up millions of views online. Her name is Peanut, and she’s not your typical firefighter. She doesn’t wear boots or carry a hose, but she may be the most beloved member of the Arbutus Volunteer Fire Department.

Peanut, a domestic cat with a calm personality and a curious streak, belongs to Lamine Fofana, a volunteer firefighter and EMS 2nd Lieutenant. She began tagging along with Fofana during his shifts at the station—and quickly became a permanent fixture among the team. It didn’t take long for her to win over the entire firehouse.

“She walks in like she owns the place,” said Fofana in a recent interview. “She’s not scared of anything. She’s friendly, affectionate, and completely at ease around all the chaos that comes with the job.”

A now-viral TikTok video showing Peanut roaming the station, lounging in gear bags, and being doted on by firefighters has amassed over 3.5 million views. The video has sparked a wave of fan admiration and inspired dozens of similar posts from other firehouses and emergency departments looking to add their own resident pets.

Peanut has become more than a mascot. She has an official name tag, a spot in the station’s group photo, and even a custom firesuit in development. Her presence has had a measurable impact on team morale, offering comfort during long shifts and bringing a moment of levity to an otherwise demanding job.

The growing interest in station animals is not new, but Peanut’s rise to internet fame is shedding light on the mental health benefits that animals can provide to first responders. The job of a firefighter is physically exhausting and emotionally taxing. Long shifts, exposure to traumatic events, and high stress levels are common. In that environment, the comfort of a calm, affectionate animal can make a significant difference.

Studies have shown that animals help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve overall mood. For first responders who often work under intense pressure, a pet like Peanut can offer an emotional reset—something as simple as a head bump or a purring nap companion can bring moments of peace and grounding.

“She helps bring people together,” Fofana noted. “If someone’s had a rough call or a long day, they’ll sit with Peanut for a few minutes and feel better. It’s a small thing, but it matters.”

Peanut’s story has also resonated far beyond Maryland. In the comments of her viral video, users from around the country—and even internationally—have chimed in with messages of support, fan art, and questions about how they can help or adopt a station pet of their own. Some are calling for Peanut to be named the official ambassador for firehouse cats nationwide.

As social media continues to play a major role in shaping public interest stories, Peanut is a reminder that the internet can still be a place for joy, connection, and inspiration. Her story is a heartwarming blend of community service, animal companionship, and a little bit of viral magic.

And in a world that often feels like it’s moving too fast, Peanut is proof that sometimes all it takes to lift people’s spirits is a cat, a cozy firehouse, and a little bit of love.