Thinking about getting a cat with my housemates… is it a bad idea?

Seeking Advice
21

So, who’s keeping the cat after everyone graduates?

22

Maybe try fostering a kitten first to see how it goes. It’s a shorter commitment, and you’ll get a taste of what it’s like to care for a pet.

23

Don’t get a cat. Who’s going to be there to take care of it after graduation? It feels like this is more about what the housemates want, not what’s best for the cat. Maybe just get a goldfish instead.

24

A group pet is a pretty bad idea. Who’s actually going to step up and be responsible, especially when it comes to paying for everything? What happens when someone moves out?

25

If you do go ahead, keep the cat indoors. Make sure you all agree to cover vet care and keep everything clean. Having some emergency funds set aside for vet bills would help too.

26

Bennett said:
If you do go ahead, keep the cat indoors. Make sure you all agree to cover vet care and keep everything clean. Having some emergency funds set aside for vet bills would help too.

Thanks for the advice! I think keeping the cat indoors will be a big topic in our discussion.

27

@Teegan
Indoor cats live longer, and you don’t have to worry about them getting hit by cars or catching parasites. Your house sounds spacious, so the cat should be comfortable inside.

28

Bennett said:
@Teegan
Indoor cats live longer, and you don’t have to worry about them getting hit by cars or catching parasites. Your house sounds spacious, so the cat should be comfortable inside.

Yeah, there’s enough room for it to roam around. Letting it outside would be a nightmare.

29

This isn’t the best plan. Who’s taking care of the cat after graduation? Pets can live over a decade, so someone needs to be ready for that long-term commitment. Maybe look into fostering instead if you just want a temporary pet experience.