'[I'm] struggling with the feeling of guilt': Pawrent’s precious cat passes over the rainbow bridge, but life presents them with a friend’s forgotten cat giving them both a fresh feline start

Four months after the painful loss of a beloved indoor cat to cancer, this cat lover is grappling with an emotional dilemma. A friend's cat, once cherished, has been pushed aside since the arrival of a new baby. She's now confined mostly to the kitchen or left outdoors, met with shouting if she tries to come inside. It's clear the cat is no longer getting the love or attention she needs, and the poster is heartbroken watching her live this way.

The thought of taking her in is tempting, especially since the cat was mostly an indoor pet before, but the timing feels complicated. Not only is the grief of losing a pet still fresh, but the cat's recent outdoor lifestyle raises concerns. Would it be cruel to transition her back to a life indoors, even with access to a catio? The poster worries about the cat's quality of life, and also about the emotional weight of adopting again so soon.

It's a tough, heartfelt situation to balance compassion, grief, and what's best for the cat. But the care and thought going into the decision already show the kind of home any animal would be lucky to have.

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We’d absolutely love a catio. Fresh air, sunshine, and endless bird-watching without any of the danger? It’s the ultimate dream hangout spot for any kitty (and their lucky hoomans too)!
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Keeping cats indoors is the safest choice. No cars, predators, or getting lost. With enrichment and love (maybe a catio!), they can live their best lives while staying safe and sound.
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Exactly! Safety, food, and comfort are the holy trinity of feline happiness. Toss in a sunny windowsill and the occasional dramatic zoomie, and you’ve got a purrfect setup.
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