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Choosing between rescue cats

83 replies

Esgaroth · 16/09/2024 14:53

Following on from my other thread but with a more specific question. We have the chance to adopt one of two cats. We went to see them today and I definitely didn't 'just know' and neither did DH. They were quite different but both lovely.

Both cats are 4/5 year old males. They are brothers but not bonded so the rescue say they don't need to stay together. They were raised in a house and were left behind when their owners moved (unbelievable!) but otherwise seem to have been well cared for, neutered and chipped. They have been in the rescue as no foster homes have been available yet - have only been there a few weeks. No known health issues.

Cat 1 was very chilled out, sniffed our fingers, rubbed his head on our hands and accepted head strokes and treats from our hands. He was purring a lot and he didn't get up, just lay there seemingly enjoying the attention. He was gorgeous and seemed confident and friendly, but did not approach us.

Cat 2 was shyer and more cautious, but also very curious. He did sniff us a little and accepted a few strokes on the cheek but was more wary of us. He almost started playing with his toys a few times but it was as though he didn't quite dare. The volunteer let him out and he was very keen to explore, though he moved very slowly and carefully and he looked at us a lot. He accepted treats placed near him but not from our hands.

I feel like Cat 1 is maybe a safer bet for a first cat? But there was something very appealing about Cat 2 that made me think he could be a real character once he'd settled down and made himself at home.

What do you think? And I know people will say to get both but we only want one cat really.

OP posts:
OccasionalHope · 18/09/2024 19:36

There honestly was no wrong choice here.

I hope Mr Ginger settles in quickly.

TheLongRider · 18/09/2024 20:04

Thank you for taking on a rescue cat! Our own ginger rescue is a fabulous beast. May you have many happy years together.

VenusClapTrap · 18/09/2024 20:07

It sounds like you’ve really thought this through, so that’s great! Congratulations on your new furry family member!

TootieeFruitiee · 18/09/2024 20:11

Cat 1 because he sounds like my cat

Offcom · 18/09/2024 20:42

As someone with two ageing pets (not siblings), I was actually just thinking ... imagine if that poster takes two cats now under duress, and in 12 years is cursing Mumsnet as yet another vet bill comes up.

I'm so happy for you and the gorgeous cat! You might think random strangers have no interest in seeing a photo of him in his new home or hearing his new name – but you would be wrong

mummysontheginalready · 20/01/2025 18:55

i have single cats and bonded cats they say they are not bonded but in a home environment they may be totally different but if you can only have one choose the one that came to you

Esgaroth · 20/01/2025 19:09

mummysontheginalready · 20/01/2025 18:55

i have single cats and bonded cats they say they are not bonded but in a home environment they may be totally different but if you can only have one choose the one that came to you

Way too late, I've got the ginger one.

I hope his brother's doing well with another family but I don't regret getting a single cat. It's enough for me and the cat is thriving.

OP posts:
mummysontheginalready · 21/01/2025 09:16

i hope you have many years of fun with your pussy cat gingers are lovely cats feisty and very individual

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