Should I get a cat? (Maine Coon)

[Sharad]

Hi everyone.

I need help making a decision please. Mainly looking for reassurance and positive stories, but also a dose of realism about cat ownership.

I have a friend, who can no longer take care of her beloved cat due to health reasons. She loves him very much, but unfortunately is physically unable to take care of him now. She has asked me if I would like to take him. I don’t want to refuse as I have child that would love to have a pet. I however, am not very keen on the idea and need convincing.

The cat is a year old and is a Maine Coon. My friend doesn’t have family that she could give him to. She asked me because I have a child who loves animals and the breed is well suited for families with children. She will have to re-home him or sell him if I do not agree, but I am not under any pressure to do so. I do however, feel responsible for his future.

Problem is, I have only heard horror stories about cats peeing and pooing in owners beds and laundry. I know this isn’t true for all cats, but Mumsnet is full of threads with these issues.
That said, I am open minded and would like to know if my fears are unfounded. I know there is always a chance, but how common is it to end up with a cat that may develop these behavioural issues?

For reference, I do not visit my friend very often as she lives two hours away, so I haven’t had any interaction with the cat.

Please help me make a decision on whether I should take the plunge or not. I am financially able to take care of him and can provide a loving home. I just need to hear from you what it’s really like owning a cat. Were you hesitant about getting a cat and was it the right decision? Did it work out? Are they loving and affectionate?
Please share some stories to help me decide.

Any experience regarding the breed would be very appreciated too.

Thank you!

We have two. They are two and a bit now. Make snd female half siblings. The male is like a big teddy bear - super friendly and loves cuddles. They are not lap cats, but he like quite rough handling! The female is more reserved but also a lovely cat.
They go outside so no issue with a litter box, though they do have one.
I'd say the biggest issue is shedding! They have lots of r! Our female doesn't get mats but the male does occasionally. No fur balls and also only one little mouse was ever caught. Nieces peed or pooped anywhere but in box or now only outside.
They are truly great animals. They chirp a greeting and just look so regal. Darn I can't seem to add a pic!

@mondaytosunday I am glad that my friend has a male too. I have heard they are very affectionate and chatty. She confirmed this. I would like to train him to go outside too. A PP mentioned sand. Is this what you use too? I have more of an issue with random poos and wees. Shedding is okay. My friend has warned me of this too!

My 2 cats have never toileted anywhere but their litter trays. They do go out but they won't poo outside, very socially responsible cats. One does occasionally regurgitate with no regard for place though.

My friend had a maine coon when I was a small child, and in my memory it was absolutely massive, like the size of a medium dog, but I doubt it actually was. It probably just seemed that was because I was very small.

@vipersnest1 gorgeous

@heldinadream this was really helpful, thank you. Especially as you have the perspective of a cat sitter and not owner. I’m glad the pooing and weeing is not common. I have heard about their nature and it is definitely part of why I am considering saying yes to this breed.

Floof is 1.5 so will still grow until 4 and still very playful. You can get very expensive litter boxes that self clean and just need changing every few months, not tried one and also with a Maine Coon need to ensure they are big. Floof is 1.2 metres and will still grow.