Cats!?

[MagsR2356]

So my dd is desperate for a cat
but we have dogs
always had dogs, never had a cat! I know nothing about them! I can’t say I’ve ever been a cat lover and I have had some bad experiences with other peoples cats!
so honest opinions about owning one? Is it easy/hard pointless Or having dogs is it already a no go? I really am clueless when it comes to cats

I say don't bother, it will likely end up in a cat rescue. Only genuine cat people should get a cat, stick to your dogs!

of course they can be mixed but you need suitable dogs. What are your dogs like with cats now?

Cats are awesome! And much easier than dogs as they don't need walking etc. They sit on you, purr, do daft things, and are affectionate. But I've never really liked dogs so it might just be I'm a cat person. I was desperate for a cat when I was a child too, never had one and it made me sad the whole time, so I'd indulge them. Especially if you already have the work of dogs. At the rescue we got ours from they say if they're ok with dogs or not and plenty are. Depends if your dogs are ok with cats though...

I don’t know because we’ve never had any! We have rabbits and chickens and the dogs are fine with those scared if anything! They aren’t prey drive dog breeds!

How old is your dad, old enough to do all the caring, feeding, litter tray? I’m a cat person, they are great and I would say very easy to look after. I have 3 and they are very serene, although I do find the odd dead mouse/bird/rat in my hallway. Don’t have dog so can’t help there.

My Dd wanted a cat when she was a about 9. We already had a dog. A friend of hers had kittens, so we ended up getting two. I read up on how to introduce them to dogs and it went fine. The dog was about 3yrs and a Labrador cross.

I read once that it’s easier if the new pet is a puppy or kitten. I don’t know how easy it is if the existing dog is a sight hound.

Some cats like lots of human company, some not. Easier to look after as they don’t need walks and you can leave them for longer. On the other hand you need a pet sitter when you go away (or use a cattery). Dogs are attached to people, cats to places.

I love both cats and dogs, but deep down it’s cats the most. It’s hard to recommend some cats are easy and some a nightmare, just like dogs.

Is there any way you can try and spend more time around cats?

you never see cats when you're out on walks? So no idea what your dogs think of cats?

My friend was so weird when I went round her house with a dog.

"My cat will be terrified !" friend predicted.
Reality: I walked in with (lurcher-size) dog & (tiny, but she kills big things) cat not only held her ground, but approached to survey dog more closely. Dog watched cat, cat watched dog, both vigilant but neither over-excited. Friend came in & got into over-excited tizz. I went back outside & cat followed to see dog out!

So much for "terrified cat". Cat was curious & watchful, not worried.

Want to suggest you find someone who wouldn't mind you letting your dog visit their cat.

As someone who has had both cats and dogs, I can tell you that they have very different personalities and needs. While dogs are often more social and need more attention and exercise, cats tend to be more independent and easier to care for in some aspects. However, getting a new cat in a home with dogs can be tricky, so it's important to do some research and make sure everyone gets along before making a decision. For more information, here is a link to a cat blog that has a lot of useful information.
In the end, if your dad really wants a cat and you're willing to put in the work to make it work, he could be a great addition to your family!

Only people who actually really like cats should get one. You've already got dogs. Tell your DD she'll have to wait until she's an adult before she can have a cat (and get her own). She's not desperate

So you have dogs, and you think cats might be pointless, but you’re considering getting one.

Please don’t.

This thread is over 5 months old, OP’s probably made a decision by now.