Really struggling to make a call on this and need some honest cat expertise input please!
I've recently started fostering cats. Aside from helping some moggies, I thought it would be a lovely thing for me and the kids, and beneficial for the shelters. Of course, the first cat we've had we've fallen hard for. He's a gorgeous personality, amazing with the kids, really affectionate, funny and gentle.
I didn't want to commit financially to the cost of a cat (not food, toys and litter) - but if there ends up being health issues which insurance don't fully cover / excesses etc. He's aged 4. We manage ok but I'm a single parent so was trying to be sensible, as out of the blue costs such as car issues tend to be felt more on one income that isn't nearly as high as I'd like 😁
But I'm wavering now, partly as I'm smitten, and mostly seeing the joy he's bringing to the kids, and how bonded he seems to be to us already. So, do I:
- not worry too much about cost - how likely are big expenses, honestly?
- adopt him and leave it at that (but would feel I'm letting down the lovely shelter who have sooo many moggies they give second chances to)?
- do both if he takes well to other cats - but logistically it would mean it being a pain keeping the foster cats inside and letting our one out with a microchip cat flap?
I find the keeping indoors side of fostering a bit of a pain when the kids want to nip in, meaning it's quite restrictive and creates more life admin, and wonder if owning is actually lower maintenance than fostering?!