After a pet has been PTS, how long before getting another?

[GilbertGrape]

About 6 days ago we had our 12 year old cat pts. We are definitely noticing her absence after having her around for so long. Amazing how animals really do become part of the family.

So, less than a week later I'm already considering getting a kitten.

How long have you waited 'between pets'?

I'm contemplating getting a BSH, Birman, Bengal, Norwegian forest cat or maybe just a nice looking moggy. Any advice on these breeds? Health, behavioural issues etc..

A couple of years ago my pedigree Persian was the victim of PKD, so was thinking any cats I might have in the future would be moggies. But after losing this last cat after only 12 years, I think I'd risk getting another pedigree (After being tested for PKD).

Any other breeds worth considering?

[bexVN]

There really is no right or wrong to this answer, it's a personal feeling and no one should tell you one way or the other. As long as you are comfortable that you are ready to accept that the new pet will be an individual and you are not going to try and compare too much I think you are ready.

I did find it strange when a person got a new dog the same day as they had their old one put down (and they were very upset and losing their elderly pet) but that's what was right for them, it doesn't lessen your feelings for you old friend.

[Jasandjules]

As Bex says, there is really no right or wrong answer to this. It is how you feel.

[Superficial]

GilbertGrape said:

About 6 days ago we had our 12 year old cat pts. We are definitely noticing her absence after having her around for so long. Amazing how animals really do become part of the family.

So, less than a week later I'm already considering getting a kitten.

How long have you waited 'between pets'?

I'm contemplating getting a BSH, Birman, Bengal, Norwegian forest cat or maybe just a nice looking moggy. Any advice on these breeds? Health, behavioural issues etc..

A couple of years ago my pedigree Persian was the victim of PKD, so was thinking any cats I might have in the future would be moggies. But after losing this last cat after only 12 years, I think I'd risk getting another pedigree (After being tested for PKD).

Any other breeds worth considering?

If you're considering it now, and it sits comfortably with you, then I don't see any reason not to start putting the feelers out and seeing if there's any cats or kittens that you seem to like. Especially if you are going down the route of rescuing a moggy from somewhere like the CPL or a local shelter, there are thousands of cats waiting for a new home and if you'd like a kitten rather than a cat (although both are rewarding) then we're currently in kitten season so rescues are inundated with them.

We lost a dog 8 years ago and we just weren't ready for another for over a year. Three years ago we lost our other dog suddenly and unexpectedly, what we didn't know at the time is the puppies we took on a couple of months later were born while we were going through hell trying to save his life. What I'm saying is, there's no hard and fast rules but if you're ready to take on another cat then there's plenty in urgent need of a home and they can help you move on from the loss of your last pet.

[Simpo Two]

I think a break of a month or two shows a bit of respect to the old pet and also allows his/her aroma to fade, ready for the newcomer.

[mrsxllifts]

Its a totally personal decision and one that only you know when the time is right. Although a same day new pet is way too soon in my opinion, some peole find channelling the emotions in to the new comer can help. I think this maybe a run away from feelings/trying to replace lost pet reaction but that's my feelings.

I think once you can accept that your lost cat is gone and that a new one isn't going to replace it, just be a new personality about the place, you're somewhere near.

Our cat was killed in a RTA 5 weeks ago, and its only now I'm starting to think about a new furry friend. I have struggled to even think of him without being teary and have only within the last week, put away his blankets etc, so I knew a new cat wasn't fair on us or it. In a strange way, the distance contract that we have picked up keeping us away from home for long periods, is keeping us from getting a new kitty, which is also helping us deal with the lose of Spyker.

I'll stop waffleing now, but hope you get what I mean, if you feel ready, go for it, but there's no harm in waiting a little longer to get over the grief.

[GilbertGrape]

Thanks everyone for your input.

I'm going to check out our local spca/shelter this week, and maybe see what the local breeders have. If I find a kitten I like, I'll be bringing it home.

In my whole life, I don't recall not ever having a dog or cat running/laying around. So, as much as I've missed my cat this last week, I see no reason not to get another one...if I find the right one.

[celticpilgrim]

I did find it strange when a person got a new dog the same day as they had their old one put down (and they were very upset and losing their elderly pet) but that's what was right for them, it doesn't lessen your feelings for you old friend.
[/quote]

That might have been me Bex, albeit a few years ago, and the decision was also partly influenced by the fact that we had another dog who wasn't used to being on his own.

You'll know when the right time is - you might see a particular animal that almost makes the decision for you, or you'll just feel the time is right. whichever way it happens, if it feels right, then it's tight.

[GilbertGrape]

We haven't adopted another cat yet, but...

This little critter seems to have adopted us.

He's actually a neighbours cat, but spends a lot of time with us. He turned up the day after we had our cat put to sleep.








Sorry for the blurry shots...was trying out a new lens.

Edited by GilbertGrape on Wednesday 25th July 05:32

[evilmunkey]

like everyone says it really is how you feel personally, do not for one minute think you are disrespecting your cats memory , i was the same . i had moggies but then ended up with a tonkinese, his name is max. he is the most amiable , lovable puss and very intelligent too. the first year was a bit hectic as he was a very hyper active kitty but sooo lovable. he became a beautiful tonk when he grew, he is 14 now going a bit grey round the whiskers an gills but that adds character. also had a Norwegian called Basil he was a big bundle of cuddly fluff who loved nothing better than sitting in his nest he made in next doors holly tree watching the sparrows. never killed one not even when they had chicks, the sparrows i'm sure saw him as their mog guardian, he loved those lil birds and whiled away many hours just watching the comings and goings.
If you feel the time is right, go for it. i had a cat all my life and when the house didnt have one it felt wrong.

[Ilikebeaver]

I couldn't imagine life after Dave the cat. However, he passed away quite suddenly and after a week things were so lonely in the house without him that I had to start looking for another.

We were heartbroken and still miss him now over 3 years on, but getting another cat just a month later was right for us. He is so different from Dave which makes it easier as he doesn't seem like a replacement but a whole new character and we are no longer lonely

[Jasandjules]

We have more than one cat and dog so, as odd as it seems, when we lose one we still have others to look after. I can't imagine, and certainly don't want, a house without cats and dogs.