Getting a cat - considerations

[RoobarbBaby]

We've got the ok from our landlord to get a cat But I'm hesitating as I know it's a big commitment.

My main concerns are -

We do limit ourselves with houses in the future as we rent. But are in a long term let at the moment. It's a gamble on that front but that's unavoidable.

Financial - how much will be looking at for good quality food and litter? Am I correct in thinking they need injections yearly? How much are these? And worming tablets.

Children - I have 3. Nearly 9, 6 and 13mo. I'm hoping a cat will be good for the eldest who has some anxiety issues. But I am wondering if 2 cats may be better so there's enough cuddles to go round. On the flip side...are 3 kids and 2 cats (plus a hamster and a guinea pig ) too much...?

Start up costs - Food and bowls, litter and tray, bed, scratching post, carrier. Anything else?

Any advice from anyone?

And to be honest I wouldn't trust mine around a guinea pig either. He has the face of an angel and the personality of a serial killer.

screaming she’s a babe, isn’t she? A lady stopped me outside our house the yesterday to say she always looks out for her sitting at the front window when she passes because it cheers her up to see her.

Oh, how sweet! She really is an angel, Judy.

Id have to get a bonded pair especially if you go to work. For me its the insurance for two which is the most expensive bit. We have two trays but they only use one. Litter is £4.50 from Sainsburys. Food about £10 a week but then mine are fussy.

Spoke to the rescue and they don't rehome to families with kids under 6!! So the kittens are a no go. The lady was lovely and did say that she thought one of the boys would just bolt from children so they'd not be right for us anyway.

I understand your comments regarding the hamster but he's a very old dude who pops out once a day for some grub. And without sounding callous, I don't think he'll be with us for much longer anyway. I can't see any way that the cat could get at the guinea pigs..?

I think we will go for 1 cat. From everything I've read, I think 2 would mean we'd have to compromise on the quality of food and insurance which doesn't seem fair.

Off to see this boy tomorrow - www.catchat.org/shelter_centre/index.php?route=shelters/cat&path=322&category_id=1&cat_id=48670&page=1

Fingers crossed!! He’s lovely.

I have 2 cats and indoor guinea pigs. The cats show minimal interest in them. Obviously they are in a secure cage but in my experience cats are interested in smaller, agile rodents and not fat, docile gps.

Kitty was lovely. Super friendly, not at all nervy of the kids. We're going back for him this evening having bought half a pet shop.

Aw that’s so exciting put some photos up when you get home