Cat regret

[Xdasw]

Our family recently rehomed a cat and I'm worried it was a mistake. I've never lived with one before and lovely though it is, having a creature walking round the room makes me really on edge at some primal animal level - and I seem to be allergic as I'm experiencing wheeze, itchy eyes and skin. My DCs in their late teens have long wanted a cat and I thought I'd get past my resistance but now it's here, it's even stronger. It feels like constantly having a guest, where you can't sit down with a book or listen to the radio without feeling you're neglecting someone. Like a loss of privacy and constantly being observed. Am I a bad person, and what can I do about it? Thanks!

You will get used to your cat and get to know it's personality. Then you'll love it and enjoys it's company. It's just new to you just now.

Antihistamines will help

Do you have anxiety about other things?

Thanks for reassurance/replies. I'm anxious about DCs on various counts, which is why I went along with the idea in the first place, although it's way outside my comfort zone.

I rehomed a cat 10 months ago after losing the elderly cat that I had from a kitten, pre-marriage and motherhood. New cat is only just feeling like a proper, relaxed part of the family (DD age 5, DDog age 6 and me). If he hadn’t come from a rescue centre 3 hours away he may well have been returned in his first few weeks, even though he could be lovely at times and I knew he was just stressed having to be indoors and in a new place. I am so glad I didn’t give into those concerns because, although he will never be the same as my old boy, he is a fantastic personality all of his own and definitely belongs with us.

I do feel for you with allergy symptoms, I believe they can improve as your system adjusts, but perhaps worth seeking medical advice. Personally I would certainly consider an unavoidable, untreatable, previously unknown allergy from someone who lives in the home a valid reason for responsible rehoming.