How Many Cats Died in Milo and Otis
The 1986 film Milo and Otis, originally released in Japan as The Adventures of Chatran, involved real animals during filming. Reports and investigations have indicated that several kittens and cats died during or around the production process.
Documented Incidents and Animal Welfare Reports
News outlets and animal welfare organizations have noted that multiple kittens reportedly died during filming. Some accounts state that a number of kittens were injured or died due to on-set hazards, while others were rehomed or survived the production.
Production Practices and Animal Safety
Filmmakers used a combination of trained animals and controlled sequences to depict the adventures of Milo the cat and Otis the pug. Animal safety consultants and handlers were involved, yet the incidents raised questions about on-set protocols. For more background on animal safety in film, see the American Humane Association guidelines at American Humane Association.
