A Remarkable Life: The Story of Potti, the 21-Year-Old Cat
Hyderabad, December 02,2024
In the bustling neighborhood of Rajaiah Street, Patel Nagar, Amberpet Division, a small yet extraordinary tale unfolded over the span of 21 years. Potti, a domestic cat raised by the Juluru family, was not just a pet but a cherished companion, a hero, and a symbol of love. When Potti passed away at the incredible age of 21, it marked the end of an era for a family that had shared its joys and sorrows with this unique feline.
Potti’s life began on September 19, 2004, as a tiny kitten with a playful demeanor that quickly won over the family of Juluru Sridevi and Juluri Pundari. From the start, it was clear Potti was no ordinary cat. Growing up in a home that treated it like family, Potti displayed traits that surprised everyone. Its intelligence, adaptability, and affection made it stand out in ways no one had anticipated.
The Guardian Cat
The Juluru family vividly remembers a life-changing night on June 9, 2011, when Potti’s instincts saved a life. That evening, Sridevi began experiencing chest pains while the rest of the family was asleep. Potti, ever alert and attuned to the household, sensed something was wrong. It let out loud, insistent cries, running back and forth between Sridevi and the other rooms until the family woke up. Startled by the unusual commotion, they rushed to Sridevi’s side and immediately called for help.
At Apollo Hospital, doctors confirmed that Sridevi was suffering from a heart attack. Emergency stent surgery was performed, saving her life. “If it hadn’t been for Potti, I wouldn’t be here today,” Sridevi often said, her gratitude for the feline guardian evident in her voice.
A Cat Like No Other
Potti was more than a guardian; it was a creature of habit and peculiarities that brought endless amusement to the family. Unlike most cats, Potti refused to use the outdoors for its needs, instead learning to use the household toilet. This habit became a source of pride for the family and a topic of fascination among their friends and neighbors.
Potti’s diet was as distinctive as its behavior. Beyond milk and fish, it developed a fondness for chicken and, surprisingly, ice cream. Each evening, Pundari would return from the local meat shop with a treat for Potti. The cat, waiting expectantly, would recognize the sound of his arrival, especially if he came with hands wet from handling fish or meat.
Celebrating Milestones
As the years went by, Potti became more than just a pet—it was the heart of the household. Its birthdays were celebrated with love and joy, particularly its 20th in September 2023, which the family marked with a grand celebration. Potti was showered with treats and affection, a testament to the bond it shared with the family.
A Tearful Goodbye
On the morning of Monday, November 27, 2024, Potti’s health took a sudden turn. Despite the family’s best efforts to comfort it, Potti peacefully passed away at 5 a.m. The household, which had been filled with Potti’s presence for over two decades, fell silent with grief.
Relatives and neighbors came to pay their respects, garlanding Potti’s small body and offering heartfelt tributes. The family held a solemn ceremony to honor the life that had brought them so much joy, laughter, and even life-saving heroism.
Remembering Potti
For the Juluru family, Potti was more than just a cat—it was a member of the family, a companion through thick and thin, and a symbol of unconditional love. Its story, marked by extraordinary longevity and unique traits, has become a cherished memory for those who knew it.
Potti’s legacy is a reminder of the profound impact animals can have on human lives. Though it has left this world, its story lives on in the hearts of those who loved it—a tale of a cat that transcended its role as a pet to become a true guardian and a beloved family member.
