The film follows the story of a mischievous Siamese cat named DC (short for “Darn Cat”) who inadvertently becomes involved in a kidnapping case. The central character in the film is Patti Randall (played by Christina Ricci), a teenager living in a small town called Edgefield.
One evening, while Patti’s parents are away, DC wanders off and stumbles upon a pair of bumbling criminals, the McCauslands, who have kidnapped a wealthy woman named Mrs. Flint (played by Dyan Cannon). Sensing danger, DC leaves clues around town, hoping to attract attention and get help.
When Patti discovers DC’s behavior, she becomes suspicious and investigates further. With the help of an FBI agent named Zeke Kelso (played by Doug E. Doug) and her friend Canoe (played by Evan Sabara), Patti follows the clues left by DC, leading them closer to the kidnapped woman’s whereabouts.
As Patti and Zeke close in on the kidnappers, they find themselves in increasingly dangerous situations, including a high-speed chase and a confrontation with the criminals. Despite the risks, Patti remains determined to rescue Mrs. Flint and bring the kidnappers to justice.
In the climax of the film, Patti and Zeke track down the McCauslands and rescue Mrs. Flint, thanks to DC’s help and their own ingenuity. The criminals are apprehended, and Mrs. Flint is safely reunited with her family.
In the end, Patti is hailed as a hero for her role in solving the kidnapping case, and DC is celebrated as a local celebrity. Patti’s parents return home to find their daughter and her friends receiving praise from the community, unaware of the dramatic events that unfolded in their absence.
“That Darn Cat” is praised for its lighthearted humor, charming performances, and heartwarming story of friendship and adventure. While it received mixed reviews from critics, it remains a beloved family comedy that entertains audiences of all ages.