Otter Wiley (affectionately known as Ottie) was a lover of laps, a voracious and passionate eater, and quite possibly the most beautiful kitty who ever lived – both inside and out.
Born in 2003 in Dallas, Texas, Otter found her forever home through an adoption fair at the local mall, of all places. It was a luxury mall – quite fitting given Otter’s glamourous looks and girly nature.
The tiny kitten sat in a window in “Otter pose” (prim and proper with paws crossed) and charmed everyone who passed, including her future mom, Taylor.
When Taylor saw Otter’s jade colored eyes; silky, tricolored floof; and furry feet, it was love at first sight. Otter boasted a rare and striking pattern of black, white, and orange fur. Paired with her gorgeous green eyes, she was the beauty queen of cats.
Otter had many admirers, with multiple families competing to adopt her. But Taylor won the Otter lottery, and she brought the itty-bitty kitty home to her new dad, Chris Wiley.
From the moment Otter came home, her purpose was palpable: she loved humans, and she loved love.
When her parents spoke her name, she would meow, roll over, make air biscuits with her pretty paws (she had one black foot pad, rumored to be the source of her power) – and beg to be stroked.
She loved belly rubs, kisses, and her own signature move: the head-butt of love.
Even when it came to toys, Otter never tried to tear them apart or “kill” her stuffed companions. Instead, she smothered them with affection.
Otter was a great traveler, and unlike most members of her species, loved a good ride in the car. Her only travel requirement was to sit in the driver’s lap (with the expectation of plenty of petting along the way).
She adapted well to different apartments and homes over the years. As long as there was a sunny spot, a box or two to smoosh herself in, and a human to love – she was perpetually happy.
Second to her parents, food was Otter’s other great passion. Her tastes were particular – she only wanted kitty kibble. But it was crucial that someone bear witness as she ate. Should the bottom of the bowl peek through, Otter would turn her glowing green eyes on the nearest human and meow for more. And she’d always get it.
As time went on, Ottie aged like a fine wine, exhibiting even more love, affection, and playfulness in her golden years. Her 15 years on planet Earth seemed to make her even more of an angel; she was preparing herself for a prime spot in kitty heaven.
While she was taken abruptly and is dearly missed by her family, she lived her last days being adored, cared for, and given everything she wanted – and giving of her whole heart in return.
Love was Otter’s mission in life, and she fulfilled it, to the last.
In the words of one anonymous scribe: “What greater gift than the love of a cat?”