What Should You Do with Your Former Roommate’s Cat?

Struggling with what to do with your former roommate’s cat can be a difficult situation. Many secondhand owners wonder if they should take the cat in, find a new home, or simply hand it over to an animal shelter. Let’s explore the different options and the best course of action to ensure a happy and healthy future for the cat.

Understanding the Situation

Your friend has left you with a feline companion in need of care. Whether you already have a home or not, the cat is undoubtedly in a state of distress. Abandoned cats are often scared, confused, and in need of a guardian.

Consider Your Options

Keep the Cat: If you have the means to take care of another pet, the best option is to provide a warm and loving home. Offer the cat food, water, and a comfortable place to sleep. Spend time with it to help it adjust to its new environment. Adopting an abandoned cat can be a rewarding experience, as seeing the cat trust again is deeply fulfilling.

Find a New Home: If adopting the cat is not an option, consider re-homing it. Spread the word among family, friends, and local pet adoption groups. Use social media, local classifieds, and animal rescue websites to find a responsible and loving family for the cat. Even if the cat seems unadoptable at first, patience and persistence can often lead to a happy outcome.

Donate to a Shelter: If neither of these options appeals to you, contact a reputable no-kill shelter. Make sure the shelter has a good reputation and follows ethical practices. Reputable shelters provide the best possible care for the cat, giving it the chance to find a loving new family.

Steps to Take Regardless of Your Decision

Regardless of what you decide to do, follow these steps:

Provide Basic Necessities: Feed the cat quality cat food and offer fresh water. Consistently clean and change the litter box. Offer Attention: Cats need love and affection. Spend time with it and show it your kindness and care. Research Cat Behavior: Understanding cat behavior can help you better care for the cat and foster a trusting relationship.

The Psychological Impact on the Cat

Cats experience trauma when they are abandoned, and it cannot be understated. Take the time to provide a sense of normalcy and calm to help the cat heal from its past. Keep the environment consistent and secure. Sometimes, it can take time for a cat to trust again, and patience is key.

Personal Experience

From personal experience, adopting an abandoned cat can be one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. One of my cats, Big Hank, was abandoned and it took a year of care and love for him to trust me. He became a cherished member of our family and traveled with me for 18 years. Cats thrive on love and care, and providing it can make a huge difference in their lives.

Conclusion

The decision of what to do with your former roommate's cat should be based on your personal circumstances and the cat's needs. Regardless of your choice, ensure that the cat receives the best possible care. By providing a loving home, re-homing the cat, or ensuring it goes to a reputable shelter, you are giving the cat a second chance at a happy and fulfilling life.