Could I properly look after a cat?

[Liltzero]

Here’s the situation: I grew up with cats but always with a SAHM but I work out of the home and can be out of the house 10-12 hours a day. I also occasionally need to travel with work.

I’d like to adopt an older cat from a rescue centre.

My DS are now old enough to help when I’m away but what about when we are away on holiday? Obviously on longer holidays I’d arrange care for the cat but what do people do with cat care for shorter breaks and with my regular work pattern is that fair on the cat?

All advice / experience welcome. I keep telling the boys that there”ll be no cat until I’m completely clear how it’s care would work.

Your work pattern isn't a problem, although a pair of bonded cats might be a better idea than just one - that way they'd have company.

For short breaks get to know your neighbours! On my street all the cat owners feed everyone elses' cats when they go away.

Do your DS still live with you? If so, they'll sometimes be around while your working.

re: holidays, we all worry about them while we're away. Cattery, pet sitter, neighbour, friend. Our old neighbours were into gardening, so I'd look after that in exchange

Yes The DS live with me half of the week but when with their Dad they are only walking distance away. They are 13 and 11.

I think it is perfectly do-able with the right cat. I’m on my own and work full time (although not every day but the days I do work I can be out for 12 hours). I’ve had my rescue cat for 18 months now and he’s great. If I go away my neighbour (she’s a dog walker/ pet sitter) comes in to feed and play with him twice a day. I’ve been reliably informed that all he does when I’m out is sleep!

I got a 10 year old cat from the Rspca, I work 4 x 10 hour shifts a week. We spend a lot of time snuggling when I’m home. I use a pet sitter when I’m away, she does two 30 min visits a day.

Thank you all for your advice. Now I just need to decide whether to share the promising news with the nagging DS!

I work 12 hour shifts and my cats are fine. They just sleep all day. I have a cat sitter if I'm away for one night or they go to a really nice catttery.

I used to work 12-hour shifts and my little Froggie was fine! She was very happy to see me when I came home, but never destroyed the house or caused any problems.

You may find that your cat may do better if you get two instead of just one. They will be company for each other. You may find it easiest to adopt a bonded pair from a shelter. Some shelters will reduce the price on a second cat if you adopt a bonded pair and you will know they already get on.