For back story, I recently went through a very difficult breakup 2 weeks ago, I came home to an empty house, my ex having moved all his stuff out while I was at the gym, and having to find out from him that the man I was planning on marrying never actually love me for the duration of our relationship and used me to make himself feels better. It’s been incredibly hard to work through but it’s been extremely difficult to come home to an empty house.
I’ve spent most of my time trying to avoid being home.
I’ve been wanting a cat for a while, but I’ve been afraid whoever I date will have a dog or will be allergic to cats and the responsibility made me nervous. I finally decided to get a cat about 24 hours ago, and I wanted to do this for myself since I really didn’t think it was healthy for me to be constantly ordering my life around the possibility of meeting my person one day. I thought I was mentally and financially ready. But ever since I brought her home, I’ve had crippling anxiety, the same I had when I walked into my house and realized my ex had left me. I don’t understand why, I’m panicking and sobbing uncontrollably at some points. This cat is actually perfect, she’s loving and I she doesn’t break or destroy things, she uses her litter box and all she wants is my attention. I feel awful for feeling this anxious and unsure. I hate the idea of bringing her back to the shelter but I also am just so anxious in my own home. I’ve read some other peoples experience, and want to know, if I’m feeling this intensely about it, should I bring her back to the shelter?
I’ve spent most of my time trying to avoid being home.
I’ve been wanting a cat for a while, but I’ve been afraid whoever I date will have a dog or will be allergic to cats and the responsibility made me nervous. I finally decided to get a cat about 24 hours ago, and I wanted to do this for myself since I really didn’t think it was healthy for me to be constantly ordering my life around the possibility of meeting my person one day. I thought I was mentally and financially ready. But ever since I brought her home, I’ve had crippling anxiety, the same I had when I walked into my house and realized my ex had left me. I don’t understand why, I’m panicking and sobbing uncontrollably at some points. This cat is actually perfect, she’s loving and I she doesn’t break or destroy things, she uses her litter box and all she wants is my attention. I feel awful for feeling this anxious and unsure. I hate the idea of bringing her back to the shelter but I also am just so anxious in my own home. I’ve read some other peoples experience, and want to know, if I’m feeling this intensely about it, should I bring her back to the shelter?
It sounds like you need to take things slow since you feel overwhelmed and anxious right now. A cat can be a wonderful companion and give you unconditional love. 
We can't tell you whether or not to return her to the shelter but I would suggest not to make an immediate decision you might regret later. Perhaps set a date and reassess your feelings. Regarding not being able to sleep when the cat's in your bedroom, what is it specifically that prevents you from sleeping? Does she wake you up playing or does she want to cuddle? There's a big difference. Once again, I'm sorry you're going through a rough time and sincerely hope things will work out given time but if not then call the shelter and explain your situation.
