This YouTuber Built A Mini City Just For His Cats
Subtitle: From supermarkets to subways, one creator is giving his pets their own human-sized adventures.
The internet has a soft spot for cats. From short clips of kittens knocking things off tables to long compilations of feline antics, cat content has become one of the most reliable ways to capture attention online.
While most creators stick to funny moments and playful montages, one YouTuber has taken things in an entirely different direction—by building an entire miniature human world just for his pets.
Chinese creator Xing Zhilei, who runs the channel Xing’s World, has spent the past two years carefully crafting detailed DIY miniatures designed to mimic the spaces we use every day.
His cat-sized projects include everything from a supermarket and a cinema to a bank. More recently, he has added a subway system and a fast-food restaurant he playfully named “Meowdonalds.”
For Xing, it’s all about giving his cats the chance to “experience the human world” in a way that fits their size. For viewers, it’s a chance to watch this unusual hobby come to life in real time.
His progress is documented on YouTube as well as other social platforms, where each new installment feels like the unveiling of another piece of a tiny, working city.
The standout so far is his subway project, uploaded just two weeks ago. The video has already garnered nearly a million views, a testament to how much people love seeing everyday life recreated on a miniature scale. According to Xing, the set alone took about four months to build.
The video opens with his cat, Mr. Nice, calmly waiting on the station platform as a miniature train rolls into view. Watching a cat board a subway carriage small enough to fit inside a living room feels surreal, but what makes it even more impressive are the technical challenges Xing overcame to make it work.
He explained that one of the toughest parts was syncing the opening of the train doors with the platform doors. Creating a functioning escalator also proved to be a tricky piece of engineering. Despite the challenges, Xing pulled it off.
The finished subway includes working stations where his cats can lounge, ride, and explore. The animals themselves seem at ease with their new “transport system,” hopping onto the train cars as if they had been commuters all their lives.
Understanding the Psychology of Pet Ownership
When you consider Xing Zhilei's decision to build a mini-city for his cats, one can't help but ponder the psychology behind pet ownership. It's not just about companionship; there is a profound psychological connection at play. As Dr. Dan Gilbert, happiness researcher, states, "The presence of pets can elevate our mood and provide a sense of purpose, enhancing our overall happiness." This sentiment is echoed by Dr. Esther Perel, couples therapist and author, who notes, "The bond we share with our pets often reflects our deepest emotional needs, offering us a unique form of connection and unconditional love." Such insights highlight the emotional depth of pet ownership beyond mere companionship.
"I made a Subway for My Cats! "
Viewers were quick to share their amazement in the comments section. The attention to detail struck a chord with many who couldn’t believe how polished the final set looked. One user wrote,
“I’m blown away. The size and dimensions are so precise. It looks incredible.”Another chimed in with, “Hollywood level of miniature work.”
Others compared it directly to real-life transport systems, often to hilarious effect.
Another person joked that they would happily tune in if Xing ever decided to livestream his cats using the miniature city. The subway even fooled some people at first glance. A viewer shared their own experience:
“I was on vacation in China a few days ago. I couldn’t even distinguish whether this was a miniature version of the metro station or the real one until I saw how huge the cat was. Good job!”"Can a Cat Play Pool? Mr. Nice the Pool Shark! "
Part of what makes the project so engaging is that it bridges the gap between two popular internet fascinations: cats and incredibly detailed miniatures. Each creation not only provides entertainment for Xing’s pets but also doubles as a showcase of craftsmanship, creativity, and persistence.
The growing popularity of his videos suggests he’s onto something unique. While most people turn to cat videos for a quick laugh, Xing offers something more immersive—a carefully built world where cats become the stars of a tiny society.
And judging by the millions of views and glowing feedback, it’s safe to say that both the cats and the audience are enjoying the ride.
Moreover, Xing's creative endeavor aligns with the concept of 'play.' In psychology, play is not merely a frivolous activity but a vital aspect of creativity and mental health. Dr. Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist and author, notes, "Play is an essential part of human development, fostering creativity and emotional resilience," highlighting its significant role in emotional health. Engaging in playful activities can enhance imagination and improve problem-solving abilities. For further insights, visit his website at jonathanhaidt.com.
The Power of Internet Cats
Moreover, Xing's creative endeavor aligns with the concept of 'play.' In psychology, play is not merely a frivolous activity but a vital aspect of creativity and mental health. Dr. Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist and author, notes, "Play is an essential part of human development, fostering creativity and emotional resilience," highlighting its significant role in emotional health. Engaging in playful activities can enhance imagination and improve problem-solving abilities. For further insights, visit his website at jonathanhaidt.com.
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
In conclusion, Xing Zhilei's mini cat city is more than just a creative project; it's a manifestation of the profound psychological connections humans have with their pets. It also showcases the potential of online content in promoting positive emotions. As we continue to explore and understand the psychology of our interactions with pets and online media, we can gain a deeper appreciation for channels like Xing's World and their impact on viewers worldwide.
