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It hurts not having a cat. I’ve had felines all my life and love everything (well, almost everything) about them. I love their soft fur. I love the way they undulate while walking on their toes. I love their need for cuddling. My cat Rocky died three months ago and I’m still grieving. So why don’t I just get another? Here are six reasons that hold me back…

Libby – Sigh. I have this Yorkie/Papillion who dominates our lives. She’s loyal, fun, sweet, but also a bully and tyrant. She’s twelve pounds and smaller than most felines. But here’s the problem…Libby considers herself a “one-pet gal.” She doesn’t want another animal working her side of the street. And although they lived together three years, Libby never “accepted” poor Rocky, even though he was here a decade before her. I’m not sure how a new little kitty would fare… or maybe I do.

Destroyed furniture – For all Rocky’s sterling qualities, he had some bad behavior I don’t miss. Our whole house became a scratching post (with the exception of actual scratching posts that remained pristine). Even getting items at discount furniture stores didn’t stop the horror of seeing love seats, couches, and chaises clawed to death. We bought cans of “Kitty Off!” by the case, but nothing deterred Rocky (and other cats we’ve had) from the demolition. I don’t miss that.

LibbyAgain – Libby made her feelings known to Rocky in no uncertain terms. If she were lying on my lap (which was often), she’d growl at poor Rocky if he jumped up to get a piece of Mom — a place that had always been his domain. It got so bad I’d have to sneak off to snuggle Rocky. Now what will happen if I go to pick up a tiny baby kitty and have it growled at by this possessive little dog? What would life be like for this animal, constantly on the lookout for Miss Bossy Boots?

Litter Boxes – Even now, months later, I catch myself going to change Rocky’s feline port-o-potty. I’ve had them so long, I forget what its like to live without one. And yes, in the scheme of things, litter boxes aren’t terribly high maintenance, compared to dogs that do their business outside several times a day…in all weather. But it’s nice to have one less thing to do, one less messy (and at times gross) task involving animal care. I confess, I don’t miss the litter box.

Libby…Once More – I know Libby would never actively hurt a cat…then again I see what she does to some of her plush toys and it’s not pretty. But at the very least, she would never be nice. And there’s something else — I picture Libby’s big brown eyes watching in envy while I cuddle our newest family member. How can I not adore this new little creature? But how can I not see how jealous and yes — probably depressed — Libby would get?

One Pet is easier – I tell myself that Libby with her vitality, playfulness, energy, and verve is like having twenty pets in one. When Libby’s in the room, all eyes go to her like a magnet. She loves the attention and spotlight. She’s adorable and precious. She’s like the cute little circus dog, always getting into spirited mischief. And yes, there are also practical pluses to one animal — less food to buy, less clean up, and less wear and tear on the house.

Still…

It’s sad to think Rocky was our last cat – the end of a long, sweet era in our marriage. The ones we had over the years – Callie, Floyd, and Rocky – brought us so much happiness, laughs, and memories. But for the first time, it’s not an easy call.

My husband Randy says go for it. The dog will adjust and part of me wants to believe that. And maybe he’s right. Maybe both animals will grow to love each other, like our other dog and cat teams did.

But Libby’s not like other dogs.

Or maybe this problem will solve itself with time. Maybe Libby will soften with age. Her muzzle will grow white. She’ll slow down. Maybe she’ll even mellow out.

But will she ever willingly and graciously let another animal into her domain? That remains to be seen.

Stay tuned.

 

 

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Comments(65)

  1. Oh, boy. What hard choices! First, I’m sorry for the loss of your Rocky. I know how heartbreaking it is.
    Second- I have 4 dogs and 4 cats- and while the latest additions don’t always get along with the “older” ones , eventually, there becomes an uneasy truce. I agree with your husband, that Lucy will eventually get used to a cat. Not necessarily LIKE it, but get used to it.
    I will say this: Agreeing to let my son get a new puppy, a big golden retriever/german shepard mix puppy was a sign of my mouth answering before my brain thought about it. It’s like having a toddler again, All the love and fun, but the exhaustion, too. If I ever get another dog (years down the line, I’m full!) I’ll get an older one. Something to think about- our shelter adopts the senior cats out for a reduced price, to help them find loving homes. Maybe that would work? They seem to be more adaptable.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Wendy, I’ve also thought of adopting an older cat. That’s not a bad idea. Four dogs and four cats? You are a saint!

  2. Oh my goodness…to get another pet? I don’t know if my heart can take another hello/goodbye. Mind you, maybe this time, my fur baby will watch me cross the rainbow bridge!

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Diane, I’ve thought of that too. We’re not getting any younger, but I think we may be able to squeeze one more in! Still not sure…

  3. We have a weird little zoo – one large goofy dog, a crested gecko and a carnival goldfish that has a will to live which defies logic. We’re at maximum capacity.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Bryce, Sounds like you have an adorable menagerie! I admire you keeping a goldfish alive. We have gone through many and they never last more than a month. *sniff*

  4. It’s not an easy decision, but you’ve outlined the situation perfectly. I’ve been there… am there… Keep us posted on what you decide. xoxox, B

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Brenda, Thanks so much. I have a feeling we’re going to have a chapter 2…

  5. Laurie, when we lost our last cat, I made several decisions: 1. Being catless is awful, 2. I would not sacrifice any more furniture or have a litter box in my house, and 3. Instead of just one cat, I would get an entire litter. This way I won’t be overly attached to any single cat.

    So, last May we got a litter of 4. Two of them didn’t make it. We “fixed” the boy and deliberately didn’t “fix” the girl. This morning she gave birth to 5 kittens!

    Life is full of decisions, and I hope you can figure out what works best for you.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Jane, Wow! I’m not sure I could be that brave, but you gave a home to lots of needy kitties. The jury’s still out for me. The scratched furniture is probably my greatest obstacle.

  6. It’s strange how your pet life evolves isn’t it Laurie? We started as dog people, became dog/cat people, and then with the passing of our last little dog, we’ve settled into becoming cat people. We love our two cats and fortunately they don’t destroy furniture (well maybe the occasional claw mark) but they are also so much less needy than dogs and we can leave them for a day or two without feeling too much remorse. I think you may still have another cat left in you – but maybe not for a while (and enjoy not emptying that kitty litter!)

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Leanne, I think you’re right. There may be another kitty in our future, but right now I am enjoying scratch-free furniture and no litter box. Still the sight of an adorable, plush kitty does gets me going…

  7. I want another dog so badly, Mine died nearly two years ago and my kids and I want another but my husband is the hold out. My dog destroyed our house. He was as sweet as can be…until you left He had separation anxiety and we tried everything. So my husband wants a break. I get it but I miss having a dog. We will wear him down. Stay tuned.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Oh Lauren, its a tough one. I totally get how your husband feels, but also get how you and your kids do. Maybe there are breeds that aren’t so “feisty?” Something to consider…

      1. I got the dog. Did you get the cat?

          • Laurie Stone

          • 3 years ago

          Lauren, Still no, but sometimes I get those feelings. Still, we bought new living room furniture a year ago and its so nice not to have it ripped to shreds. Maybe someday I’ll be ready.

  8. Such a hard choice! I am sorry for your loss. You have written about your pup before and she does sound like a one girl rock star, but…..

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Haralee, Yes, Libby is one girl rock star, love that. Still pondering…

  9. I have three cats and a dog, and every now and then I think, “When they’re all gone, NO MORE!”

    Because of : cleaning, time suck (big one), litter, and most of all, difficulty traveling freely (my husband is an airline pilot, and we’d like to use the benefits more than we can with pets needing walking/feeding/boarding).

    But I have a feeling that when they are all gone, I’ll miss knowing a furry earthling who likes to hang out with a human.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Kristen, I agree its not easy adding to the pet family. And you have four! How exciting that your husband is a pilot. I bet the travel itch really gets going, but its hard with all your fur babies. I sympathize.

  10. I suffered through cats when my kids were home. I’m severely allergic. I love them and wish that I could but I can’t anymore.
    My husband and I had several dogs and each time we lose them it gets harder.
    We have so many grandpets we decided to be pet free and would offer to pet sit whenever needed.
    It’s working well but sometimes I miss the cuddling while I write.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Doreen, Love the idea of grand pets, but that’s a long way off, unfortunately. I really miss kitty cuddles. I don’t blame you about having no more cats because of allergies. That’s no fun.

  11. When our last cat died of old age 5 years ago, after living to a ripe old cat age of about 15/17) I thought that perhaps it would be nice not to have scratched up furniture & pulled to pieces carpets. Twinkle was actually my husband’s cat (joint custody with his ex girlfriend!) and she (Twinkle) never seemed to like me …. however, our boys and husband pleaded with me to get another, so 5 years ago off my husband went to get a black cat … and came back with 2 adorable kittens, a boy & a girl. The girl cat disappeared over in the marshes last summer…. and now we have the dilemma of replacing her or just sticking with Leo who has become a bit like your Libby! Decisions, decisions!

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Linda, Love the name Twinkle! So cute. Yes, already I’m being worn down (like you were) over getting another feline. I agree, the ripped furniture gives pause. So sorry about your sweet little girl cat disappearing, very sad…

  12. I’m a huge cat fan, I’m not sure I should even comment! I think they add so much to home, but all your concerns are so valid. I freak out everytime I see a new scratch on my furniture!

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Christina, I’ve had cats all my life and will probably weaken. I already miss having one, but for now I’m enjoying life without ripped up furniture. After that, who knows?

  13. It’s so difficult when you lose a pet, they are part of your family. Only you guys can decide if it’s the right time to bring another pet into the fold. Doesn’t sound like Libby is keen though!

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Rachael, Libby would go crazy to see me cuddle a sweet little kitty, but I’m hoping she’d eventually get over it. (Maybe?)

  14. You can imagine the # of times I say to Michael, “we were so lucky to find these rescue pups but OMG are they tyrants!”

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Carol, Laughing. They’re adorable.

    • Laurie Stone

    • 5 years ago

    I am so sorry that you lost your cat. That’s awful. Hubby and I made the decision not to get another pet because of the traveling I want to do. We’re dog people though or were.

  15. You are so getting another cat! The dog will adjust. Now I did it in the reverse order and my cat peed on my bed to tell me he was not happy about the new rescue dog I brought home. Within a month they were best buds.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Lauren, You’re so funny. Sigh. I will probably get another cat someday.

  16. I can 100% relate! At first it seemed too painful to “replace” my Lucky dog. But the absence of the pure joy that he brought to our home was missed so much that we had another dog in less than a month. Pets bring me way too much joy to ever not have one. Final answer. 🙂

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Ellen, Pets do bring joy — and sweetness and innocence — to life. Can’t imagine a house without them.

  17. I am definitely not a cat person, but when I lost my dog it was heartbreaking.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Rena, I love both kinds of animals, but there’s nothing like a dog’s fun, goofy, devoted energy. Sorry for your loss.

  18. This just pulls at my heart!
    I did it. I got another Old English Sheepdog puppy. It had been two years since we waved goodbye to Aldo as he crossed the rainbow bridge. I thought I was done. But then a neighbour got a sheepie and all the feels just woke up. A week later, I was again cuddling a little ball of fur. (That, four months later, has turned into a considerably larger ball of fur!)
    I guess my advice would be to follow your feelings. If there is a hole that only a little kitteh could fill, fill it! 😉

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Oh Diane, Have to admit, I’m getting that “need a kitty” feeling. But then I remember the scratched up furniture that goes with it and have to wait. So glad you got your little (and now bigger) sheepdog. They sound so cute. Hope you do a blog post on that!

  19. Laurie, what a hard decision to make. John and I had a cat when we were newly married–Chloe. We loved her like crazy. Then Carrie was born and she too fell in love with Chloe. But when Christie came along, she decided to have allergies to cats and when her pediatrician looked me in the eye and asked if I still had the cat–I knew it was time. John had also developed allergies. And so after a while, we became a pet-less family. Dogs can be wonderful, but they are a lot of work and because we moved quite a bit, I’m glad we didn’t take one on. In fact, our grand-dog was here for three days and just left. She’s sweet, she truly is, but like grandchildren, a few days work just fine!

      • Laurie Stone

      • 5 years ago

      Beth, A few days for pets and kids might be the solution, at least when you’re a grandma! Sorry about everyone’s allergies, but what can you do? I agree life is much easier, and neater, without animals.

  20. […] For Laurie Stone of Musings, Rants & Scribbles, it hurts not having a cat. She’s had felines all her life and love everything (well, almost everything) about them. She loves their soft fur. She loves the way they undulate while walking on their toes. She loves their need for cuddling. Her cat Rocky died three months ago and she’s still grieving. So why not just get another? Here are six reasons that hold her back. […]

      • Laurie Stone

      • 4 years ago

      Thank you, Jennifer!

  21. We have two dogs. One is definitely attached to me and the other to my BF although that dog swings both ways. My dog tolerates the other one but if he has to go to the vet my dog gets worried. They really like each other but my dog won’t admit it. You may as well get a cat if you want one. I think dogs really like a buddy no matter what species. They just put on an act to make you feel guilty.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 4 years ago

      Rebecca, Interesting analysis. Maybe Libby would like another four-legged friend. Now I just have to get over having my furniture scratched to death. Although, deep down, I’d love another cat.

  22. Did you get the cat yet?

      • Laurie Stone

      • 4 years ago

      Lauren, We haven’t. Just got new furniture for the living room, the old stuff was ripped to shreds. I’m going to hold off on a kitty and enjoy my new sofa and chairs. Plus our dog Libby would turn green with jealousy over a kitty. Maybe someday.

  23. My heart still aches for your Rocky.
    My fur (factory) baby, Pandy, continues to grow. Far beyond the cuddle-in-your-lap stage and has taken up permanent residence on the floor.
    I don’t know what we’d do without her.
    Have you made a decision yet? Will there be little soft paws in your future?

      • Laurie Stone

      • 4 years ago

      Diane, I’d love to get another cat, but just replaced our old, clawed up living room furniture. Feels so good to have a pristine couch and chairs, at least for now. You never know…

  24. We rescue dogs and have had over 30. We rescued 3 cats. As much as I loved our cats, I doubt if we will get another. No particular reason. I’d rescue all dogs AND cats if I could. Loved your well-written, humorous piece.

    As we age, I wonder how many dogs we will take in; yet, I can’t imagine life without a pet in it.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 3 years ago

      Carol, Thank you for your kind words. I can’t imagine life without pets. I also can’t imagine 30 dogs! Good for you. A wonderful mission.

  25. Yes I know what a hard decision that can be…

      • Laurie Stone

      • 3 years ago

      Carol, Still grappling with it.

  26. Our family has a cat and our dog died recently died and we are thinking of getting a new dog.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 3 years ago

      Janeane, I usually need both animals, but can’t decide this time. Good luck in your search for another fur baby!

  27. I would love a cat, but my dogs are just way too reactive. Way.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 3 years ago

      Carol, Sigh. I know the feeling.

  28. We’ve always had cats, and our last one, Peaches, who looks remarkably like that photo, died around the same time as Rocky. We decided not to get another one because we travel more nowadays and have big travel plans in the future. Still, I miss having a kitty a lot.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 3 years ago

      Shari, I agree with your reasons for not getting another kitty. I feel so bad leaving pets behind when I travel. Peaches must’ve been adorable!

  29. The eternal question, especially when one’s memories are (mostly) good!
    Right now we’re wrestling with the idea of getting Pandy a companion. And I do mean wrestling. Half of us (Husby) are not in favour. Half (me) are.
    Sigh.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 3 years ago

      Diane, That’s a big decision. I’ll be interested to see who wins!

  30. Pandy remains solo. But we are so glad to have her!

      • Laurie Stone

      • 3 years ago

      Diane, So does Libby! I don’t see that changing, unfortunately.

  31. I lost both of my dogs in the last year and miss them terribly. But I have a ton of vet bills as they both had old age problems so I’m taking a big break. I recently cat sat for a friend for 10 days and although the cat was friendly and affectionate I wasn’t too into the litter box thing. I had two cats when I was much younger and they were fun but I’m still more of a dog person.

      • Laurie Stone

      • 3 years ago

      Rebecca, Cats are also a lot of work. I’d love one, but not sure my furniture will recover.

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