Tuxedo Cat Lands in Shelter After Beloved Human Enters Hospice, and His 'Heart Is Hurting Right Now'
We never want to see a pet enter the shelter, but some stories are truly heartbreaking. Animals who feel abandoned, even when it's no one's fault, often retreat into themselves. Some literally hide away. That's the case for Otis, the Tuxedo cat, described as a "sweet, loving, and slightly shy gentleman" by the rescue that took him in.
The caption echoes the question in his mind, "6-year-old Otis is a big kitty with an even bigger heart, but his heart is hurting right now, as he wonders why he's suddenly living in a shelter?" Sadly, we find out his story through the on-screen text. "His owner went into hospice. Now he hides from the world." In the clip, we see firsthand that he doesn't understand his new world and thinks he can just disappear from it.
@humanebroward His whole world changed overnight 6-year-old Otis is a big kitty with an even bigger heart, but his heart is hurting right now, as he wonders why he's suddenly living in a shelter? This sweet, loving, and slightly shy gentleman is adjusting after his owner entered hospice, and now he's hoping to find a calm, caring home where he can feel safe again Otis may be a little reserved at first, but with patience (and a few tasty treats - food is definitely the way to this 19lb kitty's heart!), his affectionate personality comes through He's curious about other cats, though he's never lived with them before. It is unknown how he is with children or with dogs in the home. If you're looking for a soft, soulful companion who will reward your kindness with quiet devotion, Otis could be the perfect match If you are ready to adopt, please complete a pre-adoption application on our website (link is in bio) and come in to meet Otis The Humane Society of Broward County is located at 2070 Griffin Road in Fort Lauderdale and is open daily at 11 AM. Call 954-989-3977 with any questions.
original sound - Humane Society Broward County
One more key tidbit about Otis: He's a BIG boy! "Otis may be a little reserved at first, but with patience (and a few tasty treats - food is definitely the way to this 19 lb kitty's heart!), his affectionate personality comes through," the shelter tells us. Who wouldn't want to give that sweet buddy a treat?
Numerous commenters tried to get the word out about the beautiful feline, like @nami, who stated, "Boosting this video for Otis." Others wished they could take him in. But it was @user9581980172618 who summed up the TikTok best, "He's only 6 years old. Lots of years left. Hope a wonderful family comes along and adopts this sweet baby and gives him a good, stable, forever home. He will be so grateful!" We're with you, Otis.
Related: Black Cat Has Spent 7 Months at Shelter Because ‘Nobody Wants to Meet Him'
How To Help a Grieving Senior Cat Adjust
Humans aren't the only ones who grieve. When cats suffer a loss, they exhibit distinct behavior changes. Some skip meals while others sleep a lot (even for a cat). There's no one sign of grief that applies to all kitties, but you'll recognize the symptoms easily.
Senior cats may face bigger struggles since they're more used to and reliant on their routines. Otis isn't quite a senior at 6 years old, but he just lost the only home he knew. To help him adjust, his new family should try to bring some of his old life with him. Blankets and toys from a familiar place with familiar smells won't hurt him, but will help him heal.
Cattitude Adjustment also recommends going the treat route, a surefire solution in this mouser's case. Lastly, like humans, animals need time to come to terms with change. Slowly earning a fur baby's trust will ensure they bond with you for life.
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This story was originally published June 13, 2026 at 9:20 AM.