Expert: Ali - 3/3/2009

Question
My cat is maybe 1.5 years old, my husband have had many problems with accepting him for many different reasons (even though he is the one who suggested a cat for us and this cat was his pick) and i have been fighting for having him since we got him, the main problem is that my husband consider cats as dirty animals his ex. after going to litterbox they sit on furniture, cathair can be found everywhere and they lick their behind and then lick their coat so it's dirty hair, and many other reasons. My cat and i are extremely connected he follows me wherever i go and comes to me when i call him, we are unseparatable, he is extremely friendly and social with new people(and cats, a strange cat got in our apartment once and he was friendly toward her even though the other one was hissing at him in his own territory) He listen to my husbands demands like not sitting on the sofa he sits on, and i also used to train him to sit using treats, he acts like a dog :)his veterinary was surprised about how friendly he is they said he is the first cat ever they work with that is so friendly and happy for them. and it breaks my heart that such a friendly cat is not allowed in our next apartment. The choice that i have to make now is between rehoming him or making him an outdoor cat which mean that he will never be allowed to come indoor and in order for me to be social with him i will have to be out with him which i don't mind doing but i don't have any experience with cats so i don't have any idea what will be best for his future. because i ONLY think about HIM and not what is best for me.

Does a cat prefer being and indoor cat with new owner or an outdoor cat where he can still see his old owner that he loves ?

I hope you can help me take the right decision.

Thank you


Answer
Zahra,

Maybe the answer to your dilemma isnt so black and white. Its probably best to re-home your kitty with someone that you are friends with - that way you can still see your furry friend from time to time. Unfortunately your husbands perception that the cat is dirty isnt accurate, in fact cats are very clean animals and it sounds like your cat is a very special cat that is eager to please. Im sure that youll have no trouble finding him a good home. I dont recommend that you make this cat an outdoor cat, his friendly nature could end up causing some very serious injuries and he could be hurt by cruel humans, hit by a car, accidentally or intentionally poisoned, the outside world is filled with hazards for cats. Your cat will live a longer, healthier and happier life with a new caregiver and you just might find a friend in the cats new caregiver that will allow you to visit and spend time with your special cat. I know that initially the cat will miss having you around every day, but continuing to be an indoor cat is what is best for him. Its also possible that your veterinarian would be willing to help you find a new home for your cat - the vet or a member of the staff at the clinic may even take your cat home because he has such a special ability to touch peoples hearts. I wish you and your cat the best of luck and I`m terribly sorry that your husband doesn`t see what a precious relationship you have with this cat, you and the cat will both be in my thoughts.