Single parent of only child thinking of getting a cat

[Goldandsparkles]

I know this might sound a bit trivial but as a single parent any decision seems to be a big one for me. I have an only child (14 years old) and am thinking of getting him a cat. He's desperate for one, we live in a quiet area and I work full time. I'd love for him to have a cat for company but really worried about taking on another big responsibility care wise and financially. Any advice?

[SponsoredByTheBadFairy]

Could you work out the costs (food, insurance for vet bills, cat litter) and put that aside for a few weeks to see if it's manageable? Cats can be brilliant and your DS is old enough that you don't need to worry about stuff like babysitters if you need to go to an emergency vet! I have not "replaced" my elderly cat since she went, as DC is under 5 and to be honest, on my own, it was just one more responsibility I can live without out until LO is older. I miss the purring though!

[Goldandsparkles]

That's a good idea about putting the money aside. I've heard such good things about the benefits of children having cats. Having another child was too big a decision, it seems having a cat is almost as big!

[MummyPiggy87]

I have a cat and I do love him but MANNN is he a selfish little git! He just wants food and to be left alone end of, don't touch and pick up, nothing.
He has an accident a few years ago and cost me £600 for the bill, and then he got poisoned with antifreeze which cost £380 in bills. Cats can be fussy with food like mine (of course!) that's also expensive. I seriously wish I had just bought a rat or something! Just really think about it, and if you do I recommend getting insurance!!
There are some cats in shelters who need homes mind you, and the people there could give you a one with a nice temperament.

[MakeItRain]

I think cats are lovely I wasn't keen at first but got talked into it. Ours are a huge part of our home and my dc love them. They are a bit expensive, but just harden your heart when they refuse to eat anything but fresh meat! I think the pros far outweigh the cons.

[MsPepsi]

I'd suggest getting a rescue cat, personally. They are neutered and litter trained. Definitely get insurance. If you rescue a cat RSPCA car insurance gives you discount (you can rescue from any shelter, not just RSPCA). I miss my cat loads. You'll love the company they provide.

[Persipan]

I second the advice to put aside the money for a few weeks and see how you go. Remember to factor in routine healthcare costs (vaccinations, flea and worming treatments) as well as the cost of insurance, as these won't be covered, and can add up.

[Corygal]

Yes! Yes! Yes! You won't look back. The costs are food and vet's bills, which can be a lot if you are not insured. Repost in the Litter Tray here to get more detailed specs.

Cheap at the price for 20 years of love and fun, good luck.

[orangutanhihio]

Yes I recommend it! Cats are lovely and if you go to a rescue shelter they'll suggest ones that would suit you/your lifestyle. Cats Protection have lots of lovely cats needing homes, the adoption fee is £75 but the cat will come neutered, vaccinated, microchipped. I had cats growing up and as an adult, they are great companions.

[IHaveBrilloHair]

I have four!

[tacal]

I got a lovely indoor rescue cat in January and I do not regret it. I think it is one of the best things I have done for my ds. Ds now has a best friend at home who loves to watch him play, sit on his lap to be stroked and sleep next to him on his bed at night. It has worked out really well. I also think ds is happier and more relaxed since we have had the cat. The only down side is that the cat is costing more in food than what I had planned. But she is worth it.