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AIBU?

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AIBU thinking this is just really irresponsible to get a kitten!

57 replies

Catswisk · 21/09/2026 16:22

Name change as I don’t want this to be linked to my other threads incase it’s outing!

since my DD started nursery she’s been friends with another little girl, naturally I became friends with the mum, both our daughters are now 11 and are still in the same school. We enjoy each others company and get along well etc.

a few years ago DH and I managed to get on the property ladder, shortly after moving in we got DD a kitten.

DDs friend then started nagging her mother for a kitten after seeing ours. So her mum bought her a cat too, shortly after getting the cat the mum was asking me costs for cat food and spaying insurance etc, they are more cash strapped than us as she doesn’t work, the mum has told me she is on benefits.

the mum has been making more comments to me recently about the cost of living and that cat food, litter etc all rising, they never had their cat spayed as it was too expensive, for that reason the cat is a house cat. She’s also said that she doesn’t insure the cat as the cat doesn’t go out.

None of the above really bothered me, the cat was always healthy looking relaxed and fed when we visit. However DD came home from school early last week and said that her friend has a new kitten.

I just don’t understand why you’d take on another animal knowing you’d struggle to afford them. I’m a huge animal lover and I just don’t think it’s right, AIBU to stop hanging out with this woman?

OP posts:
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Catswisk · 21/09/2026 16:36

brainexplorer · 21/09/2026 16:34

If they’re indoor cats then it probably enriches the first cats life significantly to have a companion. Probably the cheaper option over spaying and insuring the first one.

Ok - interesting hadn’t thought of it from this angle. you are probably right.

however I still can’t move past the decision with the current finances. What if one cat became ill and needed treatment?

OP posts:
RandomUsernameHere · 21/09/2026 16:35

Ablondiebutagoody · 21/09/2026 16:28

2 cats can live as cheaply as 1

No they can’t.

brainexplorer · 21/09/2026 16:34

If they’re indoor cats then it probably enriches the first cats life significantly to have a companion. Probably the cheaper option over spaying and insuring the first one.

Catswisk · 21/09/2026 16:33

I will be honest I think it’s particularly rubbed me up the wrong way as I’d love another cat but I just can’t afford to!

OP posts:
rubyslippers · 21/09/2026 16:31

Ablondiebutagoody · 21/09/2026 16:28

2 cats can live as cheaply as 1

How? Insurance, food, grooming
i agree with you OP
an animal is a responsibility not to be taken lightly and not being able to afford food or treatment is wrong

ilovesooty · 21/09/2026 16:30

Ablondiebutagoody · 21/09/2026 16:28

2 cats can live as cheaply as 1

No they can't if you care responsibly for them.

This woman is irresponsible.

Ablondiebutagoody · 21/09/2026 16:28

2 cats can live as cheaply as 1