Thinking of getting a cat. Sell it to me.

[sleepcrisis]

So we have mice. Specifically a mouse in DS's room which makes me cry.

DH has always wanted a cat as he grew up with them. DS is 2 and loves cats. We live on a main road but with a drive, and big back garden with fields behind that. Lots of space.

I have never had a pet and worry about the following:

DS getting used to an animal and behaving well with it.
The extra responsibility and expense
The trashing of all my lovely antique furniture
Having another small being around to train
Litter trays etc (yuk)
Am ttc - what about cats and small babies. I hate those cot net things.
Cat personality - I am told some are not so its and cuddly as others. Not tht keen on the idea of a cat that wakes me at 5am for food, for example, or one that ears and then buggers off for days on end.
Kitten or rescue cat?

Wld appreciate your advice on where to begin!

Thanks

I'm liking the sound of a young rescue cat, not a kitten.

Not a feisty Bengal.

I really do love the idea of having a cat around and DH has promised to keep on top of all the bowls/litter tray etc (and he does mean it)

But you're right, Lingdilong - maybe waiting until DS is a little older might be better for us all. At the moment Ds is very independent and reliable (I know that might not last long) but I'm fairly comfortable with him being on his own in another room if I'm nearby. I wouldn't want to have to worry about him being alone with the cat.

Hmm lots to think about.

Sorry, I feel like I've pissed on your chips a bit sleepcrisis! I am loving having our cat but I'm not sure I'd have enjoyed her much if I was juggling a newborn and a toddler. Perhaps go and look round a rescue centre on your own? Have a chat with the people working there and see what they think. Ours has open evenings from time to time.

Good idea, LingDiLong.

Yes thats a great idea.

BTW, am only ttc, not yet pregnant, so at least 9 months off from having a newborn. Surely thats enough time to get used to a cat? I will definitely go to the rescue centre alone this weekend and see what they say.

Thanks for so many replies! My most successful mnet thread yet I think!

I'm waiting for your next one, I think.

'I went to a Rescue Centre just to look and came home with a cat. What do I do?'

Actually, I think you're looking at all this in a very level headed way. I might work for you if you get the right cat.

It might work for you......

I need a post prandial coffee.