MY MOTHER-IN-LAW GOT A KITTEN AT 77 — AM I THE ONLY ONE WHO THINKS THIS IS A TERRIBLE IDEA?
I’m so frustrated! My 77-year-old mother-in-law just got a kitten, and I honestly think it’s a terrible decision. She’s living alone, her health isn’t great, and now she’s taken on the responsibility of a pet that needs constant attention. Does she really believe she can handle this?
Let’s face it — kittens are a lot of work. They need feeding, playtime, and vet visits and they can be a total handful. What happens when she gets too tired or her health declines? I already know how this will end: SHE’LL GET ATTACHED, AND I’LL BE THE ONE LEFT DEALING WITH IT!
I even suggested a fish or something easier, but she waved me off, saying the kitten is her “new companion” and will “keep her active.” Active? Who’s going to chase after it when it’s climbing curtains? Certainly not her!
It feels like a disaster waiting to happen, but no one else seems to see it. Am I overreacting, or is this bound to end badly?
Other comments:
“Any kind of animal, whether it be cats or dogs are a companion that gives the person something else to think about besides their physical issues. An animal gives unconditional love and the person gives them love right back through hugging, talking, letting them sit on their lap feeding them, playing with them and the cat loves it. The person enjoys different activities during the day so don’t don’t take the cat away. The picture shows that she obviously loves the cat.”
“And??? I’m 72, not in great health, and sometimes have a hard time getting around. I have two Great Danes, a LabraDane, and a poodle. I wouldn’t trade them for anything. Sometimes it can be trying, but they’re well trained and good dogs. I don’t take care of them … they take care of me! All I do is play with them, feed them, love them, and talk to them. They love me back and give me a reason to get up every day! If I need help, my children, daughters-in-law, and son-in-law are all more than willing to assist me and they never complain. They’re all a blessing! These pups are also a blessing! Cats are no trouble at all. Leave her be.”
“Let your mother hold unconditional love in her arms, the company will make her happy and it’s playful antics will help bring smiles and laughter to her days. The kitten will be her fur baby and it will give her a reason to live and feel needed.
A cat is not that much work, I have 3 that I adopted 2 from a friend’s son who is dying from pancreatic cancer and the other is a kitten my father wanted when he got diagnosed with AML leukemia. We had a book made of pictures of my dad and his kitten which he took to the hospital when he had to be admitted to show the nurses. I take care of his cat and I love it dearly bc it brought my father unconditional love and now Dad’s fur baby brings me joy, laughter, love and I am needed.
My father passed away 5 years ago and his fur baby is now my fur baby that has helped me deal with the grief of losing my dad, who was my hero.”
“I understand your concern. I am sure you are aware how much joy it will bring her. There are ways for you to check on them both, unless that is your objection that you might have some responsibility but are not a good daughter in law”
“Leave her alone…she deserves a little kitten to love….you sound like a mean selfish person…😐”
“77 is not old … you will find this out for yourself one day! Sounds like you’ve got a calendar counting off your mom’s days… KNOCK IT OFF! Let her enjoy the love and joy the kitten will give her and that she surely needs.”
“When you are old and lonely, nothing makes you happier than having a constant companion. I would find it such comfort, just knowing she has something to cuddle and make her happy in her senior years. I adore her and her sweet companion. It brings a sparkle to those eyes and that’s what warms my heart.”
“The cat will bring her an enormous amount of affection, companionship and comfort, and if you don’t want the cat after she’s gone, some other kind soul will take it. … and who cares about the curtains!”