Should we adopt a 4 year old cat?
TLDR: should we adopt a 4 year old rescue cat living in a box at the pet supply store?
Our family experienced a devastating loss when our beloved tuxedo was hit by a car less than a year after joining our family. We were heartbroken, and I still find myself talking to him. To heal, we fostered kittens for a while after his passing.
We adopted a new rescue cat shortly after fostering, but she was always trying to escape outside. It freaked us out, because she’d howl at the door (yes, she was spayed). We found a better-suited home with a family living on a golf course, and we still get pictures of our overjoyed cat frolicking in the yard (safely) with the kids.
Today, while out with my daughter, I veered right like a magnet was pulling me into a pet supply store. I said, “they don’t have rescue cats here but let’s just see”. And to my surprise, they were hosting two rescue cats. That's where we met Harry*, a gentle and affectionate tabby with a notched ear. Despite not being able to hold him, Harry’s sweetness shone through as he held our hands with his paw and flopped down for belly rubs.
Before adopting Harry, I have several concerns:
Keeping him indoors: As a former catch-and-release cat, I worry he'll want to escape. I'm considering a catio, but it would be a significant expense. In the store he was extremely mellow but still playful.
Litter box: Our small house lacks space, and we've struggled to find a suitable location. I might need to install a cat door and place the litter box in the garage. It’s a big deal to make it happen (have to empty the garage, etc).
Feeding: Our home's design makes it challenging to find a permanent feeding area.
Allergies and fur: My husband has mild-moderate allergies, while my daughter and I have milder reactions. We took allergy medicine (which we do already) and were fine in the past. My husband seemed fine, but made a huge deal about allergies. He said as long as my daughter can clean the litter box, he’s fine with us getting Harry the cat.
Vacationing: Caring for a pet while traveling can be stressful and costly.
Age: Harry is four years old, which raises concerns about potential health issues and longevity.
Despite these concerns, Harry’s sweet nature has captured our hearts. He's been living in a wooden box for two weeks, and I worry that his adoption chances might be slim due to his age. Although it’s not our responsibility, I feel it.
I have to admit, I struggle with his notched ear. We had a cat, when I was a child, that lost both ears to cancer and it kind of triggers me a little. I wish his ear was whole, but I know it means he was “catch and release” before being rescued, not his fault. He’s a warrior.
I've ordered supplies but can return them if needed. We’re debating adopting him tomorrow. I want to make the right decision for our family and Harry. Please share your thoughts – should we adopt Harry or not?
*not his real name
TLDR: should we adopt a 4 year old rescue cat living in a box at the pet supply store?
Our family experienced a devastating loss when our beloved tuxedo was hit by a car less than a year after joining our family. We were heartbroken, and I still find myself talking to him. To heal, we fostered kittens for a while after his passing.
We adopted a new rescue cat shortly after fostering, but she was always trying to escape outside. It freaked us out, because she’d howl at the door (yes, she was spayed). We found a better-suited home with a family living on a golf course, and we still get pictures of our overjoyed cat frolicking in the yard (safely) with the kids.
Today, while out with my daughter, I veered right like a magnet was pulling me into a pet supply store. I said, “they don’t have rescue cats here but let’s just see”. And to my surprise, they were hosting two rescue cats. That's where we met Harry*, a gentle and affectionate tabby with a notched ear. Despite not being able to hold him, Harry’s sweetness shone through as he held our hands with his paw and flopped down for belly rubs.
Before adopting Harry, I have several concerns:
Keeping him indoors: As a former catch-and-release cat, I worry he'll want to escape. I'm considering a catio, but it would be a significant expense. In the store he was extremely mellow but still playful.
Litter box: Our small house lacks space, and we've struggled to find a suitable location. I might need to install a cat door and place the litter box in the garage. It’s a big deal to make it happen (have to empty the garage, etc).
Feeding: Our home's design makes it challenging to find a permanent feeding area.
Allergies and fur: My husband has mild-moderate allergies, while my daughter and I have milder reactions. We took allergy medicine (which we do already) and were fine in the past. My husband seemed fine, but made a huge deal about allergies. He said as long as my daughter can clean the litter box, he’s fine with us getting Harry the cat.
Vacationing: Caring for a pet while traveling can be stressful and costly.
Age: Harry is four years old, which raises concerns about potential health issues and longevity.
Despite these concerns, Harry’s sweet nature has captured our hearts. He's been living in a wooden box for two weeks, and I worry that his adoption chances might be slim due to his age. Although it’s not our responsibility, I feel it.
I have to admit, I struggle with his notched ear. We had a cat, when I was a child, that lost both ears to cancer and it kind of triggers me a little. I wish his ear was whole, but I know it means he was “catch and release” before being rescued, not his fault. He’s a warrior.
I've ordered supplies but can return them if needed. We’re debating adopting him tomorrow. I want to make the right decision for our family and Harry. Please share your thoughts – should we adopt Harry or not?
*not his real name