Cats and fish aren’t exactly known for being the best of friends, but that didn’t stop a group of rescued kittens from having the adventure of a lifetime. The Bitty Kitty Brigade, a Minnesota-based animal rescue organization, recently brought more than a dozen of its foster kittens on a special field trip to Sea Life at Mall of America. Instead of their usual surroundings, the tiny visitors found themselves face-to-face with colorful fish, stingrays, sharks, and other fascinating underwater creatures.
The outing, which took place before the aquarium opened to the public, marked the rescue’s sixth annual visit. Some kittens were fascinated by the fish swimming past the glass, while others explored the aquarium’s underwater tunnel or simply napped. But beyond being an incredibly adorable experience, the trip also served a purpose: introducing the kittens to new sights, sounds, and environments to help them socialize and prepare for life in their future homes.
Scroll down to see these curious little explorers discovering the underwater world, and let us know which of their reactions you find the most adorable!