It’s Otto’s Gotcha Day. I can’t believe it’s been a year. He got used to it so quickly that it felt as if he had always been here. He shares creative tips for celebrating Gotcha Day.
Senior Cat Adoption: Introducing our Otto
Adopting a senior cat is an incredibly rewarding experience, but it comes with some unique considerations. As a cat expert, I am often asked about the best way to bring an older cat home. Before that, let me tell you a special story that is close to my heart. Later in this post, we’ll explain everything you need to know about senior cats. Look for it next week.
Tuxedo Story: Otto’s Gotcha Day
Exactly one year ago, I celebrated one of my most memorable Gotcha Days when I adopted Otto, a 14-year-old celebrated tuxedo cat.
There he was at the shelter, sitting impatiently but proudly in his enclosure, looking dapper in his natural black and white suit. As other visitors passed by looking for the young cat, I was drawn to his gentle green eyes and the white spot on his chin that looked like it had been dipped in whipped cream.
Volunteers at the shelter warned me that Otto was “feisty and voracious,” and while that was true, there was more to it than that. From day one, this sophisticated gentleman taught me that senior cats give a lot of love.
Otto immediately made himself at home, claiming all of my favorite spots as his own throne and teaching me things like that afternoon tea time was actually afternoon snack time.
He often sits proudly on books, magazines and newspapers. What can I say, all my cats have a literary bent. I shot this series last night under a large painting of a dog and cat.
A year later, Otto still jumps up and down with the energy of a much younger cat, especially when he hears the rustling of the treat bag. He’s a true adventure cat with a GPS collar, and his mink-soft fur is as charming as ever. Otto is living his best life with his good friend Odin.
Leopards don’t change their spots, and neither do cats. Cats may experience loss and trauma, but their basic nature remains. Otto was confident from day one, despite losing people.
After an initial adjustment period, he developed a personality that was confident, demanding, and at times a bully. He sticks to his own way. Odin worships him and they wrestle every day for the position of supreme cat.
If I don’t keep Otto’s Gotcha Day celebrations a secret this month, he’ll be chasing me around for treats nonstop!
Here are some fun and creative ways to celebrate Cat Gotcha Day.
– Layered wet food “cake” decorated with treats
– Tuna “cupcakes” made with cat food and Actinidia sprinkles
– Frozen treats made from low-sodium chicken soup
2. Set up special activity stations
– Build a temporary cardboard castle with multiple levels
– Create a “fish pond” with toys floating in a shallow basin.
– Hide prizes in paper bags or boxes and search for treats
3. Setting up a pet-friendly party
– Hang a ribbon or cat-safe streamer at your cat’s level.
– Create a “ball pit” by placing ping pong balls inside the box.
– Install new window perches that provide birdwatching opportunities
4. Special experience gift
– Make a new scratching post wrapped in catnip-infused sisal
– Create an indoor garden with catgrass and Actinidia plants
– Set up a bubble machine that produces catnip-scented bubbles
5. Memories-making activities
– Get a session with a professional pet photographer
– Create paw print art with pet-safe paint
– Create a photo album of your year-long adventures
6. Spa day treatment
– Gentle brushing session with new brushes
– Massage with pet-safe essential oils (just a drop if your cat likes it)
– Bring your new cozy blanket to your favorite place
7. Adventure Time
Consider purchasing a GPS collar. Otto has a Jiobit one.
– Supervised outdoor exploration with a cat backpack
– Get in your car and watch birds at your local park (if you enjoy car rides)
– Set up a new cat tent or outdoor enclosure.
8. Social celebration
– If necessary, “invite” your neighbor’s cat to watch from your window. Otto likes to look into his neighbor’s windows, so he does this in reverse. Thankfully they have two cats, which doesn’t bother them. Yes, he has a thing for Odin’s GF.
– Video call with family members who know your cat
– Share your celebration photos on social media
9. New toy rotation
– Wrap individual toys in catnip-scented tissue paper and “unwrap” them
– Create toy carousels using different textures
– Automatic toys can be set up and played for a long time
10. Enriching the environment
– Rearrange furniture to create new exploration paths. Add one or three new cardboard boxes.
– Create a sensory garden with a variety of textures and scents. I like moss, pine cones, and seashells.
Remember:
– Make your celebration calm and stress-free
– Watch for signs your cat is overwhelmed
– Focus on activities that specific cats enjoy
– Take lots of photos to remember the day
– Make sure all activities and materials are safe for cats. An emergency vet visit can be the ultimate wet blanket.
It’s amazing to think that some people may have overlooked this wonderful boy because of his age. Every day spent with Otto is a reminder of why adopting a senior cat is so special.