Dilemma with senior cats…..not really an AIBU

[Aintgointogoa]

Shamelessly reposting here for traffic !
I left the UK for a life on another continent four years ago, I had to leave for many personal and practical reasons. I still have my flat which is rented out, and my two resident cats come part and parcel with the tenancy, they are well loved and cared for by tenants who get a generous discount for this aspect (possibly unusual) of their lease. One puss is 16, the other 9. Relocating them to life in a tropical country wasn’t an option, the flight/stress etc would definitely have killed senior cat and they would have lost every thing they have known since kitten hood, roaming their territory (gardens !) etc. Now I am looking at selling the flat as I will never live there again, but I cannot give them up for rehoming. They can’t be separated and have very individual characters. The younger cat is quite neurotic at the best of times (she pisses on everything when stressed for example) I have found a place in UK which will take them both to live out their lives as free cats, together, with a one off payment for each, all their medical bills that may arise included. If I am able to return to UK in October as planned (looking doubtful, I am in a red list category country) I was going to tell my tenants that the two furries were going to ‘retire’ to the country and I would be looking to sell next year. I feel so conflicted. It’s going to be very very hard. Because once I take them to the “other place” I know I will never see them again. Although I will be updated regularly, sent photos etc. Which is pretty much what happens now really. And I feel anxious for my tenants. But I have to move things along in my own interest, my son has done a spreadsheet of what I spend on the UK cats and is eye rolling and drumming his fingers (I am effectively subsiding the tenancy) They could be taken to the “other place” without me, in spite of the distress ( it’s a 3 hour drive) they would probably hardly know me now. But I feel so very guilty. I don’t know what I am asking for, this is the first time I have really articulated my dilemma. I know this is a bullet I am going to have to bite very soon in any case. I miss them still so much (even though I have somehow acquired 2 street cats here who are great companions) Responsibility for any animal really never just ends when ‘convenient’ but I am not going to shirk it….handhold or advice welcome 😿

It's very difficult. Would your current tenants take them with them? Perhaps with a stipend from you?

Thank you @ItsVousNotMoi….I currently only have one tenant in the flat at present as it’s proving difficult to get another, there is a lot of choice out there in spite of previously being a very desirable location. So many people work from home now and it is a small flat. Tho has a lovely garden. And if she had to relocate (if I started the ball rolling) it’s very hard to find accommodation which accepts animals. They wouldn’t necessarily be secure. The “other place” is beautiful location and all the cats roam around this big old house with large grounds (there is a donkey sanctuary there too tho I don’t suppose this is a selling point for the furries) My son wants me to make the transition if I can come in October as I won’t be back any time soon after that….clear the field etc.

I inherited DDog in broadly similar circumstances. I've since moved heaven and earth to make sure he stays with me (despite being a private tenant - not always easy) and will be with me for life.

I wouldn't discount your tenants as a good option, if they're very keen.

I’m sure you’ve already posted this.

I think it's commendable that you are putting so much thought into making the right decision for your cats.
I think the place with the house, garden etc sounds the best bet.
It may be that your tenants don't really want to take them on their next move.You really need to talk to them,so you have all the facts before you can make the best decision.

Yes I did @GetTaeFuck. In the Litter Tray. I reposted in AIBU because I actually want more spectrum of advice over the kind replies I got on that board. It is a big issue for me. I can’t be the first person that has has to deal with this.

@ozymandiusking thank you. You’re right, it will be so strange to them but better than a pen in a rescue centre. I have made exhaustive enquiries and this is the best option so far. My tenant is so lovely it is going to be a very awkward discussion. She could stay, or go. In any event, I have to sell. 🌺

@DeathbyWalkies you sound amazing ! Congratulations on your tenacity with DDog ! The couple who have just bought the upstairs flat (mine is ground floor) have mentioned how funny/entertaining they find the furries, since they overlook the garden….hmmm.., maybe a deal to be struck there !

If they had to go to a large house with a garden it would be lovely for them. How much will it cost out of interest ?

Yes it looks a lovely situation. It’s £900 per cat, one off, and that covers all future medical care/vets etc. Which is quite a bargain really ! I’ve had vet bills for the old furry which have been more than that in the last 2 years…..

I hate to say this, but is this place definitely... Legitimate?

I'm suddenly reminded of Victorian baby farmers, who would adopt babies for a one off sum...

Ha ha, it did cross my mind…..maybe they get ‘disappeared’….but I have spoken to the administration and a very nice woman on the phone talked me through it. I guess with so many senior cats approaching end of life scenarios it sort of balances out. Perhaps they are more pragmatic when it comes to PTS than an owner would be. But she assured me no viable life is not supported. Younger furry has never been ill in her life although can behave like a hellcat. But of course I pay her insurance every month as you never know….