Regrets...

[estella7]

Sylvia, my cat of 7 weeks, is gone. I took her to the shelter 5 days ago. In a fit of hormones and frustration, I came to the irrational decision that she had to go, because I couldn't deal with my allergies (legit reason) and other general neurotic responses (non-legit reasons) to her very normal cat behavior

Comments

[sandelwood]

I stil feel very bad for giving up my bird, and this was about three years ago now. Mostly, I was very angry with myself for not being a good bird owner (me, with my supposed 'animal skillz', who got a male dove and not his girlfriend) and having bought an animal on impulse when I know damn well never, ever to do that. Also, I have a lot of guilt over the fact that I gave him up mostly because he was loud and annoying as hell. This thing would start cooing at 4am and not stop. This perception people have of doves as pretty, quiet, peaceful little birds is an outright fallacy. He may as well have been a cockatoo.

It was a learning experience though. I learned at least that I may just not be a good fit for certain types of animals, and to stick with the ones I know I can care for properly.

So yeah, I totally get that.

[estella7]

Oh man, thanks for telling me about your bird! LOL Misery loves company. Sometimes things don't work out, but yes, I'm certain years from now, I'll still feel the regret and the loss.

[lilyamelie]

Some people are only meant to be in our lives for a short time. We enjoy them while they are there and they make an impact on our lives. Why can't this be true of kitties as well. I don't think you're terrible and your family doesn't either. You're all just saad that she isn't there and that is okay. The thing that counts is that somebody loved her enough to get her out of the cold and now she has a home with a new family who will hopefully love her. It's really hard to have a pet you are allergic to. I know. I was extremely allergic to Loretta.

Maybe now, when you guys are ready you could get a pet for your family to love that won't cause allergic reactions. *HUGS*

P.S. If it's any comfort to you, my mother ran over another beloved cat that we had, on accident, and I never felt like there was anything to forgive. These things happen.

[estella7]

That's just it, my family was so sad to see her go, yet they aren't mad at me. I kind of wish they'd yell at me or something. Crazy.

Thanks for your kind words. I treasure the weeks I had with that little kitty. She was so f-ing charming. xoxo

[angielabrie]

*hugs*

I had to give up my cats I had when I was married-my husband refused to let me have them and I was not in a position where I could blow money fighting for them in court. At least I know he takes care of them, but it was like losing my kids.

[estella7]

Thanks, I can imagine how you felt. I ache for Sylvie and I only had her for a couple of months. :(

[bravencrazy]

About three years ago, we had to give up a cat because it was pissing all over the house (the LR carpet had to be completely replaced) and it was a nasty animal that attacked the other cats and got vicious whenever it was disciplined, even mildly.

There are assholes who had the nerve to tell me that I "didn't try hard enough," but those people didn't live in my house. That cat was a rescue that, unfortunately, had deep-rooted psychological problems that stemmed from early abuse, and those problems were NOT repairable.

[estella7]

I know you're an animal lover and would have made it work out, if it could have. Poor kitty. Poor you. Poor carpet.

The animal control officer I worked with was completely nonjudgmental. I kind of wish she would have kicked my ass. Sylvia was a gem of a kitty. I hope her new family adores her.

[angel_gayla]

I think having a pet is like the relationship you have with another person. Even when you try and you really want it, sometimes it's just not a good thing and you need to part and go your separate ways so both can move onto better things. You're a good person, I know this. I'm a cat lover, I think you know this, too. I think you're great for even trying to have a kitty as a pet with your allergies. Please don't beat yourself up about it. *hugs*

[estella7]

This is what I love about LJ--I wanted someone to say something nice to me, even though I know I did a crappy thing. I've just been so upset and down. The internet can be less judgmental at times.

Thanks, hon. *hugs*