I currently have an elderly dog. My circumstances changed quite a lot during his lifetime and I now work full time, albeit often from home now. He sleeps a lot but I have always said I will get a cat after him as it wouldnt be fair to get another dog.
I commute to work by train from a tiny station that has a small factory next to it. I know the factory had problems with feral cats a few years ago but not now. There is always a cat outside the factory who I think is fed by the staff there. She is a lovely little thing and always miaows loudly when you call her. I have started arriving early for my train as she climbs on my lap for a cuddle and happy dribbles and pads at me until my train arrives.
She may be taken in at night by staff or even taken home by someone but I cant help wondering what if she isnt and was thinking about asking about her at the factory with the view to maybe adopting her if they agree. I cant bear the thought of her being alone in the cold as she is such a cuddle cat.
But my dog doesnt like cats. He has lived with a cat at a friend's house when we went on holiday but he generally doesnt like them and he would be jealous. I want his last years / months to be as happy as possible
Also although Dp has said its ok to get the cat if we are allowed, he actually has no clue about the reality of cats and I forsee arguments if the cat scratches the furniture etc.
What would you do? It may be a moot argument if the factory says no. But its only going to get colder and what if they say yes. Maybe I shouldn't ask at all. Help me wise mumsnetters please!