Talking about pets.

[kattytee]

Actually a situation involving me trying to rescue a sick stray kitten (and encountering a lot of negativity in response) had a role in triggering my most recent depression collapse I'm still hoping we can save him/her. I'd post a pic it I'm on my mobile and there doesn't seem to be the option?

[Awesomeguy]

Hello friend,
That is a lovely story. This made my day. 🙂

[Kermit]

Hi all,

Found this thread and have a quick questionn please.

Has anyone had concerns that when they're experiencing poor mental health, they won't be able to care for their pet adequately?

For context, I live by myself and am considerinng getting a rescue cat and this is a bit of a worry for me.

[Former-Member]

Hey there @Kermit, so pleased to see that you've resurrected this thread because...pets!! 😊

That's a tough one, but to answer your question, yes I've had that concern in the past too. I think it's a real case by case situation, because nobody but you (and perhaps your professional supports) knows your limits when it comes to your mental health.

My situation was such that I shared my dog with my then partner, however when that relationship ended I took over full time care for our dog. I was so worried that I wouldn't be able to care for a pet the way she needed due to my mental health at the time. It turns out that not only was I able to care for her, but in providing that care for her I was learning to care for myself too (if that makes sense?).

Did you have any specific concerns in getting a pet or was it more a general concern?

Ps – yay you for considering a rescue cat 🐱

[Shaz51]

Hello @kattytee , @Awesomeguy , @Kermit , @Former-Member 

@Kermit how lovely to have a cat that will be there for you and they will let you know when they are hungry  xx 

[Kermit]

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Hi @Former-Member and others,

Rhye, is that your cute happy dog as your profile picture?

I think the idea of checking with my professional support team is a good one.

I think my specific concern is I'm not the tidiest person, so potentially any clutter may lead to destruction by a cat. On tthe other hand, having a cat may influence me to keep things tidier...

[Former-Member]

Hi @Harry. I don't have any pets because I'm not allowed any in my apartment complex. But over my life I've had a few pets. Birds, dogs, and cats mostly. If I was allowed to, I would keep another bird. I think dogs and cats are a lot of responsibility; I find birds easier to deal with.

[Former-Member]

Hi @Kermit I guess it entirely depends on your situation with your mental health and how you are with looking after animals generally. I guess you won't know until you get a rescue cat, I think. It's probably trial-and-error, even though I don't mean that in a bad way because cats are living beings of course; I mean if you want a cat, then maybe make back-up arrangements in case you find you can't look after the cat after all, and then get the cat. You might surprise yourself and have a good friend for life! If you're concerned, it's a good idea to speak to your support people and medical staff.

[Former-Member]

Hi @kattytee. This is bloody shocking! I don't know why people would take issue to you saving a sick cat! Anyway, I hope the cat is fine, do you still have him? I must say, some people are very evil. It's good you care so much about animals!

[Former-Member]

@Tigga19 awwwwwwww!!!