I'm 100% sure animals can detect something amiss
but not by sitting outside the door to the bathroom. The individuals in the story had to have had other symptoms that raised the animal's awareness. I don't think I've ever gone to the bathroom without my Pixie Bob following me. He's done it since he was a kitten. In fact, he associates me getting shower with me leaving and gets somewhat aggressive in the mornings. He'll grab my leg and nip at me to keep me from leaving
That being said, he knew something was up with me prior to my diagnosis. Mind you, and
this is important, I had symptoms (the swollen hard node that was growing). He would come to bed and sniff around my neck and cuddle up close to it. He was also much more attentive to me. I do believe animals can sense thinks like cancer however Rainbow, you've been triggered by an article, have no symptoms of a serious illness and your anxiety is turning it into something to worry about
Positive thoughts