Here's why people believe it might be a cat:
* The creature's posture: Its hunched back and the way it moves resembles a cat's movements.
* The creature's eyes: The glowing eyes are similar to a cat's eyes in the dark.
* The creature's tail: The tail is sometimes seen, and it appears to be long and thin, similar to a cat's tail.
However, there is no official confirmation from the developers that this creature is a cat. It could be a completely different creature, or even a visual effect meant to create an unsettling atmosphere.
Regardless of its true nature, the "cat" has become a popular topic of discussion among Half-Life fans, and the theory adds a layer of mystery to the game's already intriguing opening sequence.