My husband and I recently lost our cat to cancer and since his passing our house is very lonely. We have been discussing the idea of adopting a new cat or possibly two, but we can’t seem to make a decision. Even though we miss our pet dearly, we are not sure if now is the right time to bring an animal into our home. We are trying to start a family, so it may not ideal for our near future. We have discussed the fact that it has only been 3 weeks since he died. Is that too soon? How soon do you bring another pet into your home? I wish we had the answer.
On one hand, we think of all of the wonderful times we had with our pets in the past, and say of course we should get another one. But then we think, was this a sign? It is such a dilemma. All of our friends that have small children tell us that after they had their kids, they completely forgot about their pets. If this is the case, should we just hold out? I’m sure that juggling a newborn, a career, a husband, and a pet will not be easy. So until further notice, the thought of getting a new pet is on hold.
We are struggling with this decision and would love some feedback. Have any of you been through a similar situation? Please give us advice!
I have 4 cats, a German Shepard-which we bought when he was 2 months old and my youngest son was only 4 months old. At this time my oldest is 8 and youngest is 3 and we all love our animals. We have never once lost touch with them. And trust me, that first 6 months were hectic! If it’s only cats you want to bring in…go for it. They are so easy to take care of. If it’s too soon for you…that’s a decision only you can make. Good luck with this!!
I think you should wait until after you’ve had a child so that you can have an accurate assessment of how much of your time and energy will be given in that direction. That said, my first child was a BIG time sleeper, like me
She slept from 7 at night until 7 in the morning and took a 2 hr. nap in the morning and another 2 hr. nap in the afternoon. Suffice to say that my house was as clean as could be and I was bored out of my mind! We got our puppy when our daughter was 6 mos. old and it was the best decision. She, our dog was great companionship for me and a wonderful playmate for our daughter. She was not forgotten about at all and was a great addition to our family. She is so patient with both of our daughters who are now 2 and 4. I have no idea what it would be like to get a new pet and then have a child, as that was not my experience, but I imagine it would be hard for the pet to adjust to the decrease in attention. It does seem like 3 weeks might be a bit quick to get another pet. This is only my opinion, but I think you should give yourself a little more time to go through the process of loss so that you aren’t rushing into the decision on another pet, especially when they live for a long time. With this long answer, it all comes down to this, trust your gut, it usually steers you in the right direction.
Brandy, after our cat passed suddenly two years ago, I went to the shelter and adopted two. I LOVE my cats. I also believe that rescuing kitties from kill shelters/SPCA is one of the greatest things you can do. They are already spayed/neutered and have all their shots. Jeff and I are also trying to start a family. I’m not worried one bit that having my kitties will affect this whatsoever in any way. I say go get a cute little fluffy kitty
They warm your heart. Also, you must read the link below. It’s the history of the Tabby “M”. Maybe this will sway you?
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Why_do_tabby_cats_have_an_M_on_their_head
Miss ya girl!
-Lauren A