The area directly in front of the RPG is safe, its the area directly behind the RPG that is dangerous.

There is an initial rocket motor that boosts it out of the tube, it stops firing before it leaves the tube so the soldier doesn't get hit with the exhaust. Anything behind the tube DOES get hit with exhaust and injuries result if you are standing there. After a short distance a 2nd rocket motor fires for it to travel the rest of the way.

Hes keeping the cat is the safe(r) zone, where he can also keep an eye on it without moving.