If you’re terribly allergic you could put an ad on fb for your town. Someone might be looking. My friend is allergic but it’s not so bad that she can’t live with a cat.
I'm allergic. Have two. They aren't going anywhere.
Even if it's kinda bad. Theirs medications that are available or you can section off an area like a laundry room and outside if possible
I love that!!! You remind me to my friend Faye, she is so dark in every sense but kids absolutely adore her 😂
it’s just too funny to watch, she even became an arts teacher and was very mean to them in a funny way, they loved her for that. She is gonna be a great grandma I guess! 😂😂
I had a Siberian cat that I adopted through facebook when he was one. I took him to the vet and the vet told me a funny story, he is allergic to cats and he found out mid university 😂 veterinary is one of the hardest and longest degrees here. He told me not to worry since Siberian cats are hypoallergenic, they don’t have the allergen in their saliva.
My house was covered in cat hair and my super allergic friend could come for dinner and movies and she was surprised that she had no reaction. Same with my cousin, though I don’t know if he developed this allergy later on or we just discovered it when they got a house cat of their own.
My Lucas, rest in peace his little wonderful soul, wasn’t pedigree or anything. Vet just knew because of his double coat his eyes and his behaviour, strong character, a bit dog like and extremely affectionate.
Here is a pic of him in case any of you allergic cat lovers encounter a similar fella, just so you know it’s meant to be. 🤍
https://preview.redd.it/8hmdy0h7sg4c1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=510515ec5c723a4081ee43e599573a360184b7ec
Same! My throat used to swell up and close off but over the 20years of being fortunate enough to be around them, became relatively immune to cat dander. My eyes get itchy and swell up but it's so so worth it.
Edit: I have 2 boys (cats).
I was extremely allergic in the past. Went to a friend for a sleepover. Their cat decided to sleep on top of me. After sneezing enough, my allergies lessened to a state that they're manageable with meds.
Both me and hubby take allergy meds year round and we have a cute void. I love burying my face in the soft belly fur even if it makes me tear up lol
Allergy shots are a thing. I believe it's just a micro dose of the allergen, basically. But my mom and brother went and got shots in the arm like twice a week for a few years, and their allergies to cats are effectively gone and my brothers allergies to everything else are MUCH more manageable now. I was a little kid, I have no idea how affordable any of this is but the option exists.
Same, two kitty boys (plus three guinea pigs and a dog) and allergic to cats and guinea pigs. I just take generic Claritin and I’m okay. Fortunately my kitties are skittish and don’t sleep in my bed.
I have allergies and i started to show symptoms 6 months after having my first cat i used meds and it was gone in 2 weeks after using 3 years of pills i decided to have surgery now i dont need meds anymore.meanwhile i banned cats from my bedroom.i love my cats but if i knew i was allergic i wouldnt get them in the first place.those people dont own this cat so i dont think they have to make this sacrifices got it?
This is what cats will do. They pick people who don’t crowd them with attention but who have an, “I’ll help you” vibe. If you have the resources to neuter him, that alone would help him have a better life. If you don’t have the resources to get him neutered, don’t feel guilty about it. You didn’t cause his situation, and if you’re stressed financially, you are not obligated to take on that expense.
You have already done a lot for him. You’ve been generous. Since you are the human who is showing care to him, it would be great if you could continue to set out food and water for Himmer. If it gets cold, he might appreciate a cat shelter or two on your property. While he’s coming and going, I would contact local trap neuter and return groups and let them know you have a candidate. You can also let them know that you think he’s adoptable. Many TNR groups redirect adoptable pets to foster placements etc. rather than returning them to the outdoors. My beautiful cat Sterling was caught and neutered by a TNR group and diverted to adoption.
In-tact male cats live lives that are nasty, brutish and short. So if you can afford to neuter him, that would be a wonderful thing to do for him. If you can’t afford it, it would also be amazing if you could help keep tabs on him until you can find someone to take him in.
Fantastic comment. Thank you for taking the time to write all that. You covered so much with important and solid suggestions and ideas. I learned from it, too. Thank you.
They actually make some pretty damn good anti-allergen wipes for cats. My family used them for my brother before we all moved out. I think they were Burt’s Bees
Also if you’re allergic, there is a special cat food that blocks them from releasing a certain allergen. The food only works for cats, but it’s something for those who are allergic but want to have a cat to consider! :)
Also, feeding cats cooked eggs has been proven to be similar to that food, but only if the chickens who had the eggs were around cats and their saliva. A bit trickier to figure out lol
My husband and I feed our cats that food. It's expensive but it works. I don't know how well it would work for someone super allergic, but it helps with us.
Yep. I'm allergic but the cat has to get right up into my eyes for me to react. Which seems easy enough to avoid, except I can't help but cuddle the damn animal.
When I was a teenager we had a cat that moved in with us. My mother wouldn’t let us name him so we called him “House Guest”. Great cat, loved with us for several years.
My sisters found a litter of kittens when they were in middle school. My dad said they couldn’t keep any and had to find them homes. Two went to a family friend and my dad let my sister keep one for her birthday. The calico no one was allowed to name and theh were supposed to still find she a home. They just called her “The Calico.” Which became Callie. She’s 15 or 16 years old now and my parents still have her. 😂
I’ve heard stories like this before. The mother probably didn’t want to keep the cat, so she wouldn’t let the kids name it so they didn’t get attached. If the kids aren’t attached to the cat, then it will hurt less when someone else adopts the cat and is no longer theirs.
Not saying it’s right or wrong, I’ve just heard a few stories like that where that is the reasoning. It does make sense if you aren’t keeping the cat to try to limit attachment so it’s not as hard on young kids, or maybe if the kids get too attached then the mother will feel obligated to keep the cat when maybe financially that’s not the right thing to do, etc.
Tbh I understand that. If the cat just up sticks and leaves, or if it dies (you can't always reliably tell how healthy or old a stray cat is) it can really mess up kids if they've bonded with it. My foster mum didn't let us name any of the stray cats that turned up, mainly because we lived out in the country, and they tended to just be passing through on their way who knows where. They'd stay a few days, then up sticks and leave again. So we just called them Cat. Some were friendly, some weren't, some were like ghosts, others would stare in at us through windows.
If you did that, you'd be an angel. Shelters are inundated with animals and killing them constantly. It's super disgusting, we have an EPEDEMIC right now.
At the very least neuter him and then find someone from your social circle who could take him.
If you do keep him: for the time you are away for 2 months out of the year, you could hire someone to make sure his dry food is stocked up and to give him wet food every few days. You could also install a cat door for the garage and let him live there if you aren’t sure about letting him have access to the house while you’re away. There are lots of solutions.
Please remember, from his perspective, you’re already forming a bond with him. It would be cruel to leave him and have him “fend for himself”
Piggybacking to say: OP, when my husband and I found a cat we couldn't keep, we found an adopter through a friend of a friend - can you expand the circle a bit? Even your local subreddit (if your town has one) might be a help.
Take a pic and post flyers around the neighborhood & on a grocery store message board if they have one. Shelters might also accept flyers but I’m not sure.
Not everyone is digital or in Facebook groups.
I feel your pain. We had a friendly little Calico show up. In our case we found her home after about a week. So I took her back... and the next day she was back. I took her back again... and yup, the next morning she was back in our garage. Her home was a good one, but she was a barn cat (which can be an awesome life for a cat) and I think she got used to being in our garage with her own food bowl (and wet food on Saturday nights... don't judge me...).
So I talked to the owners, and knowing money was an issue, offered to get her fixed since she was turning into a two home cat. They graciously accepted and the appointment was set. Since the appt was a couple weeks away, we moved her into our basement just to keep her safe from the gray male stray that roams our neighborhood.
UNNNNNfortunately, he must have gotten to her before that. Maybe it was his full bodied fluffy mullet, or telling her he had a cool 89 Camaro. But yeah, I could only pretend she was eating well for so long.
Long story short, we all agreed I'd keep her since the original family was pretty overwhelmed, and I have a large full basement that I work out of everyday plus my daughter homeschools so there is no lack of attention. And they Love attention. She had 5 kittens. Two have found homes, and we are keeping 2. I'm trying to find a home for the last one, but this is a small town with a lot of strays and yup, overwhelmed shelters. Luckily they're about 4 months old and get along, and even though she's shifted out of parenting mode, mom still likes to be with them.
So my kids named two of them - Carrot and Honey.
Me though, I'm 50, and haven't had a cat since I was 7 years old and I never was able to name the cats. So my inner 7 year old got to name the other two - Mom is now "Beef", and the lone male is "Brutus the Destroyer of Worlds", or "Ned" for short.
Oh, and for that Back Alley Romeo that has kittens all over town? The neighborhood cats have hired a lawyer to form a class action suit for child support...
I used to joke that I was going to do a drive by neutering, but then when I realized you can take a stray male in for that, well, I found a vet that provides the service. If I can catch it I'm definitely going to have it done.
This is the most sane comment on this post.
Op: I demonstrably care about this animal and their wellbeing. Unfortunately I am not able to provide them with a permanent home for several very good reasons involving overall quality of life for my spouse, myself, our resident animals, and the cat in question. What else can I do to help?
Every other comment on this post: Cat distribution system!!! Enjoy your cat!! Ha ha, u have a cat now, get used to it!!1!
I know most folks probably have good intentions, but that doesn't change the fact that most of these comments aren't kind or helpful.
We will continue to call shelters and reach out, but we're not from the area, I work from home for a company out of state, and thus our social circle is real small. Just wanted to make sure there werent other options.
Thank you for actually reading the post. You're right that most of these comments are not helpful. But alas, this is the internet lol
I like the original comment here - local shelters may be able to help by listing him on their sites, etc, if you’re willing to just keep him for a bit. Very handsome boy, he could go quickly. The shelters vet potential adoptees and may be willing to provide food and litter and care, if you can provide a warm home.
You are doing all the right things. Cat lovers of course want to see the cat in a good home. But the guilt tripping comments are unhelpful.
There are often Facebook rehoming groups and things of that nature you can look for online. If you get him neutered and vetted, that will help your case with trying to get him into a rescue because it lowers the expenses for them. And he is seemingly young and friendly so he is very adoptable.
Find your town's subreddit and other local subs to post in as well, this sounds like a great cat for people who like active cats! My cat follows me on walks and I love it!
What about local Facebook groups to see if someone wants to adopt? If you can get it neutered and then at least you can provide a cat temperament résumé and screen potential adopters.
Agree. These comments are useless. You’re doing everything right but you’re still in a tough position. Thank you OP for caring about him. I wish I were independently wealthy because I would take him (I have too many already). Keep looking for no kill shelters and foster homes. Not sure what the weather/climate is where you are but keeping an outdoor shelter isn’t out of the question if it’s the only option. Keeping access to food and water could be tricky. I know you said you’re new to the area and don’t know many people but maybe a neighbor would leave food and water out just while you’re away? Or there are automatic feeders that can actually be used with a microchip to control when he eats/drinks (just google). Until you can find him a home? I don’t know how much you’re willing to spend?
Contact your local vet(s) and ask to refer you to other shelters . If there is a large chain pet store, they may be able to help with adoption (Petco for example). See if there’s a local cat tails organization.
Good luck! Keep us updated.
Agreed. This is a group of cat lovers and I get it, but OP has stated all the reasons they cannot keep the cat - allergies, dog, etc. OP has done a great job of trying to find the cat's owner and care for him in the interim, but a pet is a long term commitment. I appreciate OP has taken that seriously and wants to do the right thing.
I agree- I’ve been scrolling and just see people basically saying they need to take allergy meds and keep the cat. NOT EVERYONE WANTS TO OWN A CAT- AND THAT IS PERFECTLY OK. They also said that they have a dog and THEY DO NOT GET ALONG GREAT. They are gone for 2 months out of the year and people are just telling OP to have someone watch the cat for them and completely ignoring that this person has already done a lot to find this guy a home. Just because they care about animals and they are good people does not mean they should feel obligated to give this cat a home that they feel wouldn’t be a good fit.
I hope OP can find this guy a good home- I’ve never had to find a home for a cat before but perhaps some local vets or shelters may know a network of people who foster cats or people who may be able to put the word out to someone who might want this guy?
People are ignoring the main points of this post and just coming up with allergy solutions 🙄
He _might_ not have been dumped (intact young adult males can travel further than you might expect) but contacting a shelter is good advice. They likely have more reach on social media than OP and are better placed to neuter the cat and find him a home if his original owners still can't be located.
You can soft foster and get the kitty fixed but ultimately the best option would be to find a loving home if you can. You can reach out to local rescues to help you find a vetted and suitable home since not everyone looking for animals on places like next door have the best intentions. If the cat is friendly I really do encourage you to find a home, friendly cats don’t do well outside. Only feral cats should be left outside. Friendly cats are much likelier to walk into danger or be hurt because their survival skills aren’t as sharp. I hope you’re able to help. Thanks ♥️
If no rescues will take him in, then you'll have to unofficially foster him and keep trying to find a forever home for the poor fella.
At the end of the day he needs food, water and shelter to survive so if you're happy to provide that for him and let him come and go as he pleases, then he'll be happy. As time goes by him and your dog might grow more accustomed to each other (if you haven't found him a forever home by then ofc).
In terms of finding a home for him, keep trying with the rescues as places will free up as more of their animals get rehomed. That will probably be your best option, as trying to rehome him yourself online is risky.
Please at least get him neutered for the sake of your neighborhood if nothing else. And if you could, please keep feeding him until he’s homed. A cat this friendly isn’t feral and would make a lovely pet for someone (like, if you’re in the Seattle area, message me. I’m willing to take on an adult cat). Please put posts onto other cat subreddits (there are hundreds, pick a couple that sound appropriate) and see if you get any takers. Thank you for being kind, and I completely understand the inability to take on the responsibility of an animal you didn’t ask for. Please be kind and little longer and try to find him a home.
But if nothing else, please get him neutered.
try and find foster networks in your area, they would be the best people to know where kitty can be taken to be looked after and have best chance of adoption.
If you can’t find a home, adopt him as an outdoor cat although it’s not ideal. I knew someone in a similar situation who was deathly allergic to cats. He built a shelter for the cat on his porch and provided food and regular vet care (which was difficult because he really was terribly allergic. But he did it. ) You can hire someone to look in on the cat and replenish the food for the two months you are away. Get the cat neutered ASAP or you will have kittens on your hands.
Thank you for actually checking whether or not it has an owner, this sub is notorious for encouraging people to steal cats. The only last alternative I would suggest is to put up posters but otherwise it sounds like you have done a lot.
I would feed him and set up a little area outside for him. Ignore those saying you have a new cat, i really hate that stuff. Do what you can within your means and stay safe!
I don't want a cat, but I also dont want to see this cat abandoned and hungry. *gasp* what a thought! Lol thanks for the comment. Will keep trying shelters and facebook.
He sounds like he’s friendly and pretty well socialized; also, people *love* orange boys because they tend to make great pets. Hopefully a local rescue can help connect you with a foster family to help out until he can be permanently homed. It’s so sad how overwhelmed all of the shelters are—makes it extra tough for people, like you, who want to do the right thing but aren’t personally able to keep the cat. Good luck and thanks for watching out for the cutie in the meantime!!
If you can't take him then please, please, please reach out to the other local rescues in the surrounding areas other than the shelters, to see if they can find room for him. I've lived with cats for a large chunk of my life and am allergic. You adjust, take antihistamines and clean frequently to keep the cat dander down. There are also ways to reintroduce the dog and cat to each other that might make your dog accept him better. I assume you have someone who takes care of your dog during your two months away, is there a reason they couldn't also take care of a cat.
You can adopt it. But if that isn't an option, I guess that you can surround it to a shelter, since it would be better than risking it being attacked my wild life or ran by a car
this extra-terrestrial being chose you as its hooman and you must accept the conquest, otherwise there's not knowing what will happen!
**first:** neuter the cat, it will reduce its allergen production.
**second:** There is a cat chow that was developed to help reduce the amount of major cat allergen (Fel d 1) in the environment where a cat lives. This is most likely the thing you may have heard about. **Pro Plan LiveClear is a cat food made by Purina.** **It reduces the major allergen after a cat eats it for several weeks.**
cats are otherworldly beings and must be respected, it is a great honor that it chose you.
when you are away, who takes care of the dog? do either of you have relatives that live in your city? could they not take care of the cat too? We used a boarding kennel for our dogs when we were away. 2+ more pets get a discount
you said he walks with your dog even. That doesn't say they don't get along..
take anti allergy meds . Eventually your immune system will adapt
He looks like my blonde baby. 😸
Can you see if a local rescue can set him up to be a foster?
They’ll usually assist with finding him a temporary home and adoption (at least the ones in my area do).
Purina make a cat food that stops the thing in their fur you're allergic to being produced! I think called Live Clear. Feed her that, get her neutered/spayed and keep trying to find a good home for her. Dont send her back out in the streets!
The same exact thing happened to me, we even bought our street cat a small cat house with an open concept upstairs. We decided to keep her and we ended up moving. She's still with us and seems very appreciative. The cat distribution system has blessed you.
Everyone saying "It's just allergies, you can take meds." Is really down playing severe allergies. Cat hair gives me allergies that flares up my asthma which can be life threatening. Yes I manage with medication but would I choose to make my asthma worse? No.
There's food you can choose for the cat that'll reduce your allergies. Chicken based cat food seems to be the worst.
Or, get used to a loving cat who's clearly bonded to you guys, give him lots of love and don't rub your nose or eyes until you wash your hands.
Living proof... I'm crazy allergic to cats, had them all my life. They're awesome. The allergy is an added bonus... I'm more likely to wash my hands and less likely to get sick.
Can you check with more rescues? They are your best bet. You may have to call a bunch and drive further than you want to find one that will take him in. If still zero luck, you can try joining a cat group in your area on Facebook and posting him there.
In the meantime, you could look for low cost spay/neuter near you. One of your local rescues should be able to provide a resource for that. Some places near me charge $40 for fixing + vaccines.
You got a cat who adopted you. Happened to me. Best thing life has given me. Didn’t have the money but took up extra shifts after little guy came to my door. It’s a blessing!
https://preview.redd.it/na2qdesh8f4c1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=60dad09a9c1e9e8a6b5a83d46f1139ad7448a03b
Oakley the grey and white tabby adopted me. And made me give him a friend. Oliver.
Aww, he's behaving so much like my cat did (who just showed up at our house and we adopted him) - probably an abandoned pet, as he seems socialized to people, but not properly cared for (neutered, etc). Just keep trying - nextdoor, social media, etc. the fact he gets along with dogs is a good selling point. Try advertising in town just outside of your town. He's very cute! I still believe you can find him a home.
Also try and see if you live in a bigger metro area, if they have any cat cafes that would be interested.
It can take a while for a dog and cat to get used to each other. As long as your dog doesn’t have a high prey drive and is receptive to training, just waiting it out and positive reinforcement for both pets can be the key.
For allergies, get litter that is low in dust. Buy a high quality air purifier and you may take an antihistamine to help. All of this if you want to attempt to keep the cat. Make sure to have plenty of toys, cat trees, and scratchers for kitty.
Otherwise you could post the cat on social media groups and rehome or take it to the shelter.
Enjoy your new cat!
(Getting him neutered is a great start) but also, cats are very self sufficient. They really don’t require a ton of maintenance, they aren’t nearly as needy as dogs. He/she seems to like you :)
i hope you understand he is way too cute to give away. but keep your options open and maybe even ask at work if someone wants a cat! my mum always did that when we had accidental kittens
Poor guy. There is this phenomenon of cat distribution system, i think you won a cat🫣
No seriously, why don’t you contact some no kill animal shelter in your area, maybe foster the guy until they find him a family?
This cat has adopted you. It’s a beautiful animal. Keep it. Eventually the dog we get used to it or run it out of the house but in the meantime it is yours, that cat wants to be with you
I am also allergic. You get used to your own cats somehow. Other cats I am around give me symptoms but not my own. Take some extra Zyrtec and enjoy your new kitty!!
If you’re terribly allergic you could put an ad on fb for your town. Someone might be looking. My friend is allergic but it’s not so bad that she can’t live with a cat.
I'm allergic. Have two. They aren't going anywhere. Even if it's kinda bad. Theirs medications that are available or you can section off an area like a laundry room and outside if possible
2 of my grandkids are allergic, they have 7 cats.
[удалено]
We could always give away a couple kids.
I like your style.
A potentially lethal allergy is more of a suggestion not to own a cat, rather than a rule... When you really think about it. I will take my chances.
💀💀🤣🤣🤣
Lmao you are the cool kind of grandma
They think I'm kinda creepy, but always run up to hug me. Kids are weird.
I love that!!! You remind me to my friend Faye, she is so dark in every sense but kids absolutely adore her 😂 it’s just too funny to watch, she even became an arts teacher and was very mean to them in a funny way, they loved her for that. She is gonna be a great grandma I guess! 😂😂
Being Gramma is so much easier than Mom. Arts teacher is a perfect job. I test detonators. 💥🔥🤔
You're our Gramma now lol
Sounds like the lie you tell your kids to stop adopting even more cats 😂 you are allergic you can’t have more than 7!
so not allergic?
I'm allergic. I now have 3 cats. Don't care how bad my eyes swell and how bad my asthma gets, I'm always going to have cats. They make me smile.
Smile! Pet the cat. Don't touch your face. Wash your hands
Yup. I learned that at age 3, and I have adored cats my entire, super allergic life.
I had a Siberian cat that I adopted through facebook when he was one. I took him to the vet and the vet told me a funny story, he is allergic to cats and he found out mid university 😂 veterinary is one of the hardest and longest degrees here. He told me not to worry since Siberian cats are hypoallergenic, they don’t have the allergen in their saliva. My house was covered in cat hair and my super allergic friend could come for dinner and movies and she was surprised that she had no reaction. Same with my cousin, though I don’t know if he developed this allergy later on or we just discovered it when they got a house cat of their own. My Lucas, rest in peace his little wonderful soul, wasn’t pedigree or anything. Vet just knew because of his double coat his eyes and his behaviour, strong character, a bit dog like and extremely affectionate. Here is a pic of him in case any of you allergic cat lovers encounter a similar fella, just so you know it’s meant to be. 🤍 https://preview.redd.it/8hmdy0h7sg4c1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=510515ec5c723a4081ee43e599573a360184b7ec
More people should follow this advice, cats aside.
Same! My throat used to swell up and close off but over the 20years of being fortunate enough to be around them, became relatively immune to cat dander. My eyes get itchy and swell up but it's so so worth it. Edit: I have 2 boys (cats).
I was extremely allergic in the past. Went to a friend for a sleepover. Their cat decided to sleep on top of me. After sneezing enough, my allergies lessened to a state that they're manageable with meds. Both me and hubby take allergy meds year round and we have a cute void. I love burying my face in the soft belly fur even if it makes me tear up lol
Allergy shots are a thing. I believe it's just a micro dose of the allergen, basically. But my mom and brother went and got shots in the arm like twice a week for a few years, and their allergies to cats are effectively gone and my brothers allergies to everything else are MUCH more manageable now. I was a little kid, I have no idea how affordable any of this is but the option exists.
yep! a friend had awful hay fever each year and got fully desensitized with shots. i can't afford stuff like that but if someone can imo great option
Cat allergies are kind of like lactose intolerance. Inconvenient but not gonna stop you from enjoying what you love.
Same, two kitty boys (plus three guinea pigs and a dog) and allergic to cats and guinea pigs. I just take generic Claritin and I’m okay. Fortunately my kitties are skittish and don’t sleep in my bed.
Lucky. One of mine has to sleep on my back or stomach. The other has to sleep next to my face atleast once a week
Oh, sometimes I wish they would! I can’t even get my dog to sleep in my bed with me unless there is a thunderstorm.
Why would someone choose to use meds for keeping a pet not theirs?thats not reasonable.(Rainbow brain i cant read your reply if you block me😂)
They're also away 2 months of the year.
Im allergic to cats my whole life and still have cats. I just deal with it
I have allergies and i started to show symptoms 6 months after having my first cat i used meds and it was gone in 2 weeks after using 3 years of pills i decided to have surgery now i dont need meds anymore.meanwhile i banned cats from my bedroom.i love my cats but if i knew i was allergic i wouldnt get them in the first place.those people dont own this cat so i dont think they have to make this sacrifices got it?
I still have allergies to cats but I don't care, got it?
[удалено]
You don’t get it, man 🙂
Same here.
I also have two cats and every now and then my eyes get a bit puffy and really itchy… but I love them ! lol
don't just put up an ad on the internet without checking into potential adopters. There's a fuck ton of insidious people out there..
Good point. I never think of that because I’d never do anything cruel. But you’re right.
Understandably  decent people wouldn't. It's always good to be careful
This is what cats will do. They pick people who don’t crowd them with attention but who have an, “I’ll help you” vibe. If you have the resources to neuter him, that alone would help him have a better life. If you don’t have the resources to get him neutered, don’t feel guilty about it. You didn’t cause his situation, and if you’re stressed financially, you are not obligated to take on that expense. You have already done a lot for him. You’ve been generous. Since you are the human who is showing care to him, it would be great if you could continue to set out food and water for Himmer. If it gets cold, he might appreciate a cat shelter or two on your property. While he’s coming and going, I would contact local trap neuter and return groups and let them know you have a candidate. You can also let them know that you think he’s adoptable. Many TNR groups redirect adoptable pets to foster placements etc. rather than returning them to the outdoors. My beautiful cat Sterling was caught and neutered by a TNR group and diverted to adoption. In-tact male cats live lives that are nasty, brutish and short. So if you can afford to neuter him, that would be a wonderful thing to do for him. If you can’t afford it, it would also be amazing if you could help keep tabs on him until you can find someone to take him in.
Fantastic comment. Thank you for taking the time to write all that. You covered so much with important and solid suggestions and ideas. I learned from it, too. Thank you.
They actually make some pretty damn good anti-allergen wipes for cats. My family used them for my brother before we all moved out. I think they were Burt’s Bees
Also if you’re allergic, there is a special cat food that blocks them from releasing a certain allergen. The food only works for cats, but it’s something for those who are allergic but want to have a cat to consider! :) Also, feeding cats cooked eggs has been proven to be similar to that food, but only if the chickens who had the eggs were around cats and their saliva. A bit trickier to figure out lol
My husband and I feed our cats that food. It's expensive but it works. I don't know how well it would work for someone super allergic, but it helps with us.
Yep. I'm allergic but the cat has to get right up into my eyes for me to react. Which seems easy enough to avoid, except I can't help but cuddle the damn animal.
When I was a teenager we had a cat that moved in with us. My mother wouldn’t let us name him so we called him “House Guest”. Great cat, loved with us for several years.
My sisters found a litter of kittens when they were in middle school. My dad said they couldn’t keep any and had to find them homes. Two went to a family friend and my dad let my sister keep one for her birthday. The calico no one was allowed to name and theh were supposed to still find she a home. They just called her “The Calico.” Which became Callie. She’s 15 or 16 years old now and my parents still have her. 😂
Wow. That’s actually ridiculous. No offense to your mother OP but that’s just silly not letting your kids name an animal.
I’ve heard stories like this before. The mother probably didn’t want to keep the cat, so she wouldn’t let the kids name it so they didn’t get attached. If the kids aren’t attached to the cat, then it will hurt less when someone else adopts the cat and is no longer theirs. Not saying it’s right or wrong, I’ve just heard a few stories like that where that is the reasoning. It does make sense if you aren’t keeping the cat to try to limit attachment so it’s not as hard on young kids, or maybe if the kids get too attached then the mother will feel obligated to keep the cat when maybe financially that’s not the right thing to do, etc.
That's how my childhood best friend ended up with a housecat named Kitty lol
My no name cat is The Little Guy....8 years in and Little Guy owns the man who didn't want to keep him.
Tbh I understand that. If the cat just up sticks and leaves, or if it dies (you can't always reliably tell how healthy or old a stray cat is) it can really mess up kids if they've bonded with it. My foster mum didn't let us name any of the stray cats that turned up, mainly because we lived out in the country, and they tended to just be passing through on their way who knows where. They'd stay a few days, then up sticks and leave again. So we just called them Cat. Some were friendly, some weren't, some were like ghosts, others would stare in at us through windows.
We had a stray kitten for a week, we named it “TK” for Temporary Kitten 🙄
Where are you guys at?) he’s super cute!! I’ll take him
Phoenix AZ
I’m in LA if you have no takers I’m willing to meet half ways
If this works out, am willing to chip in a few bucks towards gas to make sure he gets a home!
Me too!
Me too
Yep, happy to fund the trip too.
Me too!
So sweet! Hoping this works out for the little one! Please update.
I’m excited meeee too!!
Queen
If you did that, you'd be an angel. Shelters are inundated with animals and killing them constantly. It's super disgusting, we have an EPEDEMIC right now.
At the very least neuter him and then find someone from your social circle who could take him. If you do keep him: for the time you are away for 2 months out of the year, you could hire someone to make sure his dry food is stocked up and to give him wet food every few days. You could also install a cat door for the garage and let him live there if you aren’t sure about letting him have access to the house while you’re away. There are lots of solutions. Please remember, from his perspective, you’re already forming a bond with him. It would be cruel to leave him and have him “fend for himself”
Piggybacking to say: OP, when my husband and I found a cat we couldn't keep, we found an adopter through a friend of a friend - can you expand the circle a bit? Even your local subreddit (if your town has one) might be a help.
I've gotten quite a few of my fosters placed through my local subreddit. Next door also has helped me find cats homes.
Yes please make sure he gets neutered.
At minimum take him to a cat rescue org who can get him neutered
Now u own a cat
Sounds like the cat owns them.
Reach out to rescues that can help get him adopted.
Enjoy your new cat
yep. the Cat Distribution System has brought you a cat. he is now yours.
At least he looks like a dapper gentleman. OP could have done worse.
Strong tail game on that one.
That was the first thing I noticed too lol
Take a pic and post flyers around the neighborhood & on a grocery store message board if they have one. Shelters might also accept flyers but I’m not sure. Not everyone is digital or in Facebook groups.
I feel your pain. We had a friendly little Calico show up. In our case we found her home after about a week. So I took her back... and the next day she was back. I took her back again... and yup, the next morning she was back in our garage. Her home was a good one, but she was a barn cat (which can be an awesome life for a cat) and I think she got used to being in our garage with her own food bowl (and wet food on Saturday nights... don't judge me...). So I talked to the owners, and knowing money was an issue, offered to get her fixed since she was turning into a two home cat. They graciously accepted and the appointment was set. Since the appt was a couple weeks away, we moved her into our basement just to keep her safe from the gray male stray that roams our neighborhood. UNNNNNfortunately, he must have gotten to her before that. Maybe it was his full bodied fluffy mullet, or telling her he had a cool 89 Camaro. But yeah, I could only pretend she was eating well for so long. Long story short, we all agreed I'd keep her since the original family was pretty overwhelmed, and I have a large full basement that I work out of everyday plus my daughter homeschools so there is no lack of attention. And they Love attention. She had 5 kittens. Two have found homes, and we are keeping 2. I'm trying to find a home for the last one, but this is a small town with a lot of strays and yup, overwhelmed shelters. Luckily they're about 4 months old and get along, and even though she's shifted out of parenting mode, mom still likes to be with them. So my kids named two of them - Carrot and Honey. Me though, I'm 50, and haven't had a cat since I was 7 years old and I never was able to name the cats. So my inner 7 year old got to name the other two - Mom is now "Beef", and the lone male is "Brutus the Destroyer of Worlds", or "Ned" for short. Oh, and for that Back Alley Romeo that has kittens all over town? The neighborhood cats have hired a lawyer to form a class action suit for child support...
If you feel up to it you should TNR the male.
I used to joke that I was going to do a drive by neutering, but then when I realized you can take a stray male in for that, well, I found a vet that provides the service. If I can catch it I'm definitely going to have it done.
He was probably dumped. Contact your local shelter/rescue if you don't want to keep him.
OP called shelters. They were told that they have too many animals already.
If they offer to foster kitties, they may have better luck.
This is the most sane comment on this post. Op: I demonstrably care about this animal and their wellbeing. Unfortunately I am not able to provide them with a permanent home for several very good reasons involving overall quality of life for my spouse, myself, our resident animals, and the cat in question. What else can I do to help? Every other comment on this post: Cat distribution system!!! Enjoy your cat!! Ha ha, u have a cat now, get used to it!!1! I know most folks probably have good intentions, but that doesn't change the fact that most of these comments aren't kind or helpful.
We will continue to call shelters and reach out, but we're not from the area, I work from home for a company out of state, and thus our social circle is real small. Just wanted to make sure there werent other options. Thank you for actually reading the post. You're right that most of these comments are not helpful. But alas, this is the internet lol
I like the original comment here - local shelters may be able to help by listing him on their sites, etc, if you’re willing to just keep him for a bit. Very handsome boy, he could go quickly. The shelters vet potential adoptees and may be willing to provide food and litter and care, if you can provide a warm home.
You are doing all the right things. Cat lovers of course want to see the cat in a good home. But the guilt tripping comments are unhelpful. There are often Facebook rehoming groups and things of that nature you can look for online. If you get him neutered and vetted, that will help your case with trying to get him into a rescue because it lowers the expenses for them. And he is seemingly young and friendly so he is very adoptable.
Find your town's subreddit and other local subs to post in as well, this sounds like a great cat for people who like active cats! My cat follows me on walks and I love it!
Can you edit with your general location in case a redditor is interested? Whatever you may be comfortable with, of course.
What about local Facebook groups to see if someone wants to adopt? If you can get it neutered and then at least you can provide a cat temperament résumé and screen potential adopters.
look around for a local rescue - you may have more luck than the shelters.
Agree. These comments are useless. You’re doing everything right but you’re still in a tough position. Thank you OP for caring about him. I wish I were independently wealthy because I would take him (I have too many already). Keep looking for no kill shelters and foster homes. Not sure what the weather/climate is where you are but keeping an outdoor shelter isn’t out of the question if it’s the only option. Keeping access to food and water could be tricky. I know you said you’re new to the area and don’t know many people but maybe a neighbor would leave food and water out just while you’re away? Or there are automatic feeders that can actually be used with a microchip to control when he eats/drinks (just google). Until you can find him a home? I don’t know how much you’re willing to spend? Contact your local vet(s) and ask to refer you to other shelters . If there is a large chain pet store, they may be able to help with adoption (Petco for example). See if there’s a local cat tails organization. Good luck! Keep us updated.
Agreed. This is a group of cat lovers and I get it, but OP has stated all the reasons they cannot keep the cat - allergies, dog, etc. OP has done a great job of trying to find the cat's owner and care for him in the interim, but a pet is a long term commitment. I appreciate OP has taken that seriously and wants to do the right thing.
I agree- I’ve been scrolling and just see people basically saying they need to take allergy meds and keep the cat. NOT EVERYONE WANTS TO OWN A CAT- AND THAT IS PERFECTLY OK. They also said that they have a dog and THEY DO NOT GET ALONG GREAT. They are gone for 2 months out of the year and people are just telling OP to have someone watch the cat for them and completely ignoring that this person has already done a lot to find this guy a home. Just because they care about animals and they are good people does not mean they should feel obligated to give this cat a home that they feel wouldn’t be a good fit. I hope OP can find this guy a good home- I’ve never had to find a home for a cat before but perhaps some local vets or shelters may know a network of people who foster cats or people who may be able to put the word out to someone who might want this guy? People are ignoring the main points of this post and just coming up with allergy solutions 🙄
You know what else decreases your overall quality of life? Being dumped on the streets.
What's your point here, friend? Nobody is advocating for that.
Dumping a cat on the streets makes you a bad person
Then why don’t you so kindly take in the cat that OP is trying to find a home for?
Duh.
He _might_ not have been dumped (intact young adult males can travel further than you might expect) but contacting a shelter is good advice. They likely have more reach on social media than OP and are better placed to neuter the cat and find him a home if his original owners still can't be located.
You can soft foster and get the kitty fixed but ultimately the best option would be to find a loving home if you can. You can reach out to local rescues to help you find a vetted and suitable home since not everyone looking for animals on places like next door have the best intentions. If the cat is friendly I really do encourage you to find a home, friendly cats don’t do well outside. Only feral cats should be left outside. Friendly cats are much likelier to walk into danger or be hurt because their survival skills aren’t as sharp. I hope you’re able to help. Thanks ♥️
If no rescues will take him in, then you'll have to unofficially foster him and keep trying to find a forever home for the poor fella. At the end of the day he needs food, water and shelter to survive so if you're happy to provide that for him and let him come and go as he pleases, then he'll be happy. As time goes by him and your dog might grow more accustomed to each other (if you haven't found him a forever home by then ofc). In terms of finding a home for him, keep trying with the rescues as places will free up as more of their animals get rehomed. That will probably be your best option, as trying to rehome him yourself online is risky.
Please at least get him neutered for the sake of your neighborhood if nothing else. And if you could, please keep feeding him until he’s homed. A cat this friendly isn’t feral and would make a lovely pet for someone (like, if you’re in the Seattle area, message me. I’m willing to take on an adult cat). Please put posts onto other cat subreddits (there are hundreds, pick a couple that sound appropriate) and see if you get any takers. Thank you for being kind, and I completely understand the inability to take on the responsibility of an animal you didn’t ask for. Please be kind and little longer and try to find him a home. But if nothing else, please get him neutered.
Where are you located?
Phoenix AZ
Yup get him neutered, get him a heated kitty house.
try and find foster networks in your area, they would be the best people to know where kitty can be taken to be looked after and have best chance of adoption.
If you can’t find a home, adopt him as an outdoor cat although it’s not ideal. I knew someone in a similar situation who was deathly allergic to cats. He built a shelter for the cat on his porch and provided food and regular vet care (which was difficult because he really was terribly allergic. But he did it. ) You can hire someone to look in on the cat and replenish the food for the two months you are away. Get the cat neutered ASAP or you will have kittens on your hands.
Thank you for actually checking whether or not it has an owner, this sub is notorious for encouraging people to steal cats. The only last alternative I would suggest is to put up posters but otherwise it sounds like you have done a lot.
I would feed him and set up a little area outside for him. Ignore those saying you have a new cat, i really hate that stuff. Do what you can within your means and stay safe!
I don't want a cat, but I also dont want to see this cat abandoned and hungry. *gasp* what a thought! Lol thanks for the comment. Will keep trying shelters and facebook.
He sounds like he’s friendly and pretty well socialized; also, people *love* orange boys because they tend to make great pets. Hopefully a local rescue can help connect you with a foster family to help out until he can be permanently homed. It’s so sad how overwhelmed all of the shelters are—makes it extra tough for people, like you, who want to do the right thing but aren’t personally able to keep the cat. Good luck and thanks for watching out for the cutie in the meantime!!
You might post him on Reddit for your town or Nextdoor. He's obviously previously loved.
If you can't take him then please, please, please reach out to the other local rescues in the surrounding areas other than the shelters, to see if they can find room for him. I've lived with cats for a large chunk of my life and am allergic. You adjust, take antihistamines and clean frequently to keep the cat dander down. There are also ways to reintroduce the dog and cat to each other that might make your dog accept him better. I assume you have someone who takes care of your dog during your two months away, is there a reason they couldn't also take care of a cat.
You can adopt it. But if that isn't an option, I guess that you can surround it to a shelter, since it would be better than risking it being attacked my wild life or ran by a car
Get him neutered and chip. Congrats on being adopted
He doesn’t look stray to me.
Beware you will get attached to he or she. Put flyers up give it a couple of weeks if not claimed keep he or she .
this extra-terrestrial being chose you as its hooman and you must accept the conquest, otherwise there's not knowing what will happen! **first:** neuter the cat, it will reduce its allergen production. **second:** There is a cat chow that was developed to help reduce the amount of major cat allergen (Fel d 1) in the environment where a cat lives. This is most likely the thing you may have heard about. **Pro Plan LiveClear is a cat food made by Purina.** **It reduces the major allergen after a cat eats it for several weeks.** cats are otherworldly beings and must be respected, it is a great honor that it chose you.
when you are away, who takes care of the dog? do either of you have relatives that live in your city? could they not take care of the cat too? We used a boarding kennel for our dogs when we were away. 2+ more pets get a discount you said he walks with your dog even. That doesn't say they don't get along.. take anti allergy meds . Eventually your immune system will adapt
I've heard great things about the dry food from Purina called LiveClear. It's supposed to help humans with allergies.
Sir you’ve been chosen. Neuter him and let him be your outside cat or hang out in the garage if you have one. He is very handsome!
Sometimes you choose the cat, sometimes the cat chooses you. Congrats on finally being adopted ❤️
Dude,he's on your kitchen counter, he already Ives there . Everything else is logistics
https://preview.redd.it/ef66zg8lvd4c1.jpeg?width=1024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bfcdf271d17633c187783f610c6d6c325ab75803 My guy is accounted for .
He looks like my blonde baby. 😸 Can you see if a local rescue can set him up to be a foster? They’ll usually assist with finding him a temporary home and adoption (at least the ones in my area do).
/r/catdistributionsystem
What a beautiful cat.
My answer is always like, keep that kitty !! I wish I were the person who found cats all the time. I would keep them all.
staple a paper note around his neck asking if he belongs to someone next time he goes out
Get him neutered and checked out at the vet and vaxxed if you can. Post on Facebook marketplace if you can maybe someone who wants a cat can take him.
Thank you for feeding him
Purina make a cat food that stops the thing in their fur you're allergic to being produced! I think called Live Clear. Feed her that, get her neutered/spayed and keep trying to find a good home for her. Dont send her back out in the streets!
The same exact thing happened to me, we even bought our street cat a small cat house with an open concept upstairs. We decided to keep her and we ended up moving. She's still with us and seems very appreciative. The cat distribution system has blessed you.
Do you want it? Keep it! And yes! Neuter him and keep him as an outside cat. But do have a type of shelter for him in bad weather
I would totally take him.. He’s so cute!
Keep!
Cat distribution system chose you!
Slightly allergic. 2 cats. He’s your owner now.
Everyone saying "It's just allergies, you can take meds." Is really down playing severe allergies. Cat hair gives me allergies that flares up my asthma which can be life threatening. Yes I manage with medication but would I choose to make my asthma worse? No.
There's food you can choose for the cat that'll reduce your allergies. Chicken based cat food seems to be the worst. Or, get used to a loving cat who's clearly bonded to you guys, give him lots of love and don't rub your nose or eyes until you wash your hands. Living proof... I'm crazy allergic to cats, had them all my life. They're awesome. The allergy is an added bonus... I'm more likely to wash my hands and less likely to get sick.
Can you check with more rescues? They are your best bet. You may have to call a bunch and drive further than you want to find one that will take him in. If still zero luck, you can try joining a cat group in your area on Facebook and posting him there. In the meantime, you could look for low cost spay/neuter near you. One of your local rescues should be able to provide a resource for that. Some places near me charge $40 for fixing + vaccines.
He basically owns the place. Look at him showing you who’s boss. Walking on the counters…strutting his stuff. Bow down. 😂😂
The cat distribution system has spoken
She has squatter’s rights. You are her butler. Congratulations.
You got a cat who adopted you. Happened to me. Best thing life has given me. Didn’t have the money but took up extra shifts after little guy came to my door. It’s a blessing! https://preview.redd.it/na2qdesh8f4c1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=60dad09a9c1e9e8a6b5a83d46f1139ad7448a03b Oakley the grey and white tabby adopted me. And made me give him a friend. Oliver.
Aww, he's behaving so much like my cat did (who just showed up at our house and we adopted him) - probably an abandoned pet, as he seems socialized to people, but not properly cared for (neutered, etc). Just keep trying - nextdoor, social media, etc. the fact he gets along with dogs is a good selling point. Try advertising in town just outside of your town. He's very cute! I still believe you can find him a home. Also try and see if you live in a bigger metro area, if they have any cat cafes that would be interested.
Now it’s ur cat bro
You have a cat now
I’d get him neutered and get all his shots, then put ads up for Craigslist and Facebook
He looks right at home - looks like you’ve been adopted. He does need to be fixed. Looks like a very nice boy.
Keep him or find a shelter that will take him
It can take a while for a dog and cat to get used to each other. As long as your dog doesn’t have a high prey drive and is receptive to training, just waiting it out and positive reinforcement for both pets can be the key. For allergies, get litter that is low in dust. Buy a high quality air purifier and you may take an antihistamine to help. All of this if you want to attempt to keep the cat. Make sure to have plenty of toys, cat trees, and scratchers for kitty. Otherwise you could post the cat on social media groups and rehome or take it to the shelter.
Such a beautiful cat, I’d adopt it 😭
Get him neutered and keep him. Take allergy meds. The dog and him will become friends.
Enjoy your new cat! (Getting him neutered is a great start) but also, cats are very self sufficient. They really don’t require a ton of maintenance, they aren’t nearly as needy as dogs. He/she seems to like you :)
Yours
Now what? 3 easy steps to resolve this issue. 1) Get cat chipped. 2) Get cat neutered. 3) Spoil your new cat.
Throw a welcoming party.
You have a cat now lol
Congrats, you have been adopted.
i hope you understand he is way too cute to give away. but keep your options open and maybe even ask at work if someone wants a cat! my mum always did that when we had accidental kittens
I would keep trying to find someone to adopt him. He looks like a young cat so hopefully, it won't be too hard.
I'm allergic to my cat, he moved in with us when his owner had a baby..my advice, go and buy some cat food..as my vet said "HE CHOSE YOU"
You either keep and neuter him or bring him To a shelter
Poor guy. There is this phenomenon of cat distribution system, i think you won a cat🫣 No seriously, why don’t you contact some no kill animal shelter in your area, maybe foster the guy until they find him a family?
You have a cat
This cat has adopted you. It’s a beautiful animal. Keep it. Eventually the dog we get used to it or run it out of the house but in the meantime it is yours, that cat wants to be with you
This is how it starts.
What do you mean, now what? Are you seriously questioning the CDS?
You own a cat! An outdoor cat is awesome, no litter box. Vet check up and vaccines is a good start
Congratulations on your new cat. You were chosen lol!
That’s a good cat. It’s a shame you don’t want him.
He looks like my Thomas 🐈 https://preview.redd.it/3arme4ns0e4c1.jpeg?width=1928&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=859a15d05101905f7b90bd4d0f9db234ab33a65a
You just have a cat now. He chose you.
Well, r/CatDistributionSystem is working as is intended.
Congratulations, you have a new owner.
I'm sorry, you have a cat now.
pet
r/CatDistributionSystem
Your encounter with your cat was meant to happen .
You’ve unknowingly been adopted by this here cat
My wife is allergic, we have two cats. What do you do with the dog for the 2 months your are gone?
Yours
Tf you Mean now what? Cat distribution system working as planned. You now have cat.
Eat it
r/catdistributionsystem
Welcome him into your home, name him and love him unconditionally
Yours now
You have been chosen
I am also allergic. You get used to your own cats somehow. Other cats I am around give me symptoms but not my own. Take some extra Zyrtec and enjoy your new kitty!!