Should I get another cat?

tourmaline

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My roommate is moving and taking her cat with her. Our cats get along really well and it will be very sad for both of them. I've thought about getting Nepheline a friend but I don't think I'll be able to afford it. Nepheline has had a lot of health problems and I've gone in debt paying for all the vet bills. She seems to be fine now
I just got her spayed and bought health insurance. I could afford to feed both cats but am fearful of the financial and emotional strain of possibly getting another sick cat. Nepheline is 6 months old and is full of energy and loves to run around the apartment at top speed. So a friend would be great for her. If I do get a friend should I get a cat that is younger? The cat that is leaving (Salsa) is 2 years old. Both cats came home at the same time from the Humane Society. Thanks for any advice.
 

luvmybirmans

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I've had one cat households and two cat households, and I believe they are definitely happier with a friend. Especially if you are out at work all day. Obviously, you need to consider the financial commitment, too, but they really seem happier. On picking a "healthy" cat, my experience is that if you go to a shelter you can "just tell" the strong cats from the weak cats. I went with my mom to the shelter - she wanted to find a DSH street tough who wouldn't get sick on her like her last cat. The guy she picked looks like a big thug. Naturally, he hasn't been sick ever. I really do think sometimes you can just tell.
 

aquiel

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wait and see if your kitty adjusts to being an only feline, if she doesn't ,then perhap then a 2nd kitty is in order.
you could also purchase pet insurance on teh 2nd cat, which could save you a bit, if you do end up with a cat that likes to drain the pocket book.
as for age, i dont think it will really matter, same with gender, the most important thing is your kitties temperments clicking.
good luck with what ever you choose!
 

tnr1

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Originally Posted by tourmaline

My roommate is moving and taking her cat with her. Our cats get along really well and it will be very sad for both of them. I've thought about getting Nepheline a friend but I don't think I'll be able to afford it. Nepheline has had a lot of health problems and I've gone in debt paying for all the vet bills. She seems to be fine now
I just got her spayed and bought health insurance. I could afford to feed both cats but am fearful of the financial and emotional strain of possibly getting another sick cat. Nepheline is 6 months old and is full of energy and loves to run around the apartment at top speed. So a friend would be great for her. If I do get a friend should I get a cat that is younger? The cat that is leaving (Salsa) is 2 years old. Both cats came home at the same time from the Humane Society. Thanks for any advice.
What about fostering a cat for the Humane Society?? Check to see if they will cover vet costs etc. If you find that you cat and the other cat get along....then you can consider adopting it.

Katie
 

elizwithcat

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I understand what you mean by spending money on a sick cat. It's up to you to decide if you can afford it. Other than that, 2 cats are happier than 1. I would go for a younger cat of opposite sex-a boy kitten. I suppose you could and should do a complete vet check before bringing the kitten home to see if he is healthy.
 

coaster

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Originally Posted by TNR1

What about fostering a cat for the Humane Society?? Check to see if they will cover vet costs etc. If you find that you cat and the other cat get along....then you can consider adopting it.
I think that's a great idea for your situation. Then you can also see if the cat is healthy before adopting. That should address your primary concern.
 

eatrawfish

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I agree that money is important. As much as I want to say, just go for it! I know that the unexpected can always happen, as well as annual check-ups, etc. I don't think you can ever fully prepare for the sudden HUGE expenses, but you need to be prepared at least for the more minor ones.

That said, I agree that fostering sounds like a great idea. Do be sure to find out if they cover vet costs, not all groups do.
 
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tourmaline

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Thanks for all the advice. I'll will consider fostering a cat when the time comes. My roommate leaves in two months. I will wait and see how Nepheline does by herself first and then look at that option.
 
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