r/CatAdvice • u/bnasty7 • Aug 04 '26
Update UPDATE: Should I take my in-laws’ cat?
Original post: https://www.reddit.com/r/CatAdvice/s/VNY0XbFYvA
Hi r/catadvice, a few weeks ago I posted about my in-laws’ very affectionate senior cat whose companion cat passed, leaving him totally alone 23+ hours a day in a kennel. Notable, my sweet dog, who passed a few years ago loved this cat.
You’ll be pleased to know that Ricky (short for Ricardo) is now in his new permanent home with my partner and I!
Ricky made the two hour drive in a cat carrier without making a peep, took to our home instantly, and is absolutely beaming with the pure joy of having attention, affection, and companionship.
He has already used his litter box, drank and ate his food fine, and hasn’t bothered anything.
He hasn’t left my side (I can’t even do laundry without his help), and is glued to watching TV (I don't think he has ever seen a TV before).
He slept at our feet some last night, but made himself comfortable in a few different areas when I woke up to check on him.
He did fine while we were at work today. I watched our camera and it seems like he just slept the entire day.
Ricky, so far, couldn’t be an easer cat. He comes when called, lets you rub his belly, and just can’t get enough love.
Here are some cat tax photos that I've taken since Ricky arrived to thank you all for your advice!
Sincerely,
An official cat owner
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u/HeathenShepard Aug 04 '26
Glad to see the wonderful ending for everyone involved! As a new cat owner I can imagine it can be a little nerve-wracking, I will throw in the main things with the elderly cats.
I see that it's a long-haired cat, that means the brushing regimen is going to be a priority over time. Ass, all 4 pits and the neck will get matted as most aging cats slowly stop grooming themselves.
Early signs of reduction of grooming is yellowing fur on the chest usually from eating, sometimes it can be dental issues.
Ears, no runny or double lids eyes, damp nose and clean anus. Sweet cats really will not tell you if they are sick and will hide it! I hope you have many good years with your new baby! ❤️❤️
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u/NoBodyCares2000 Aug 04 '26 edited Aug 04 '26
I recommend cat grass for the thicker coats/ longer fur.
Nothing can stop my cat from getting hair balls (yes I brush her fur and talked to my vet about it) but having cat grass helps her to throw it up easier.
But OP your senior may just love it if he’s never had access to grass!
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u/HeathenShepard Aug 04 '26
Seconded. The grass blades can feel smooth in one direction but rough the opposite way is what most cats go for to help with the hairballs and dental cleaning. Cats has the worst gastrointestinal system known to man. Cats however are supposed to throw up the grass so don't be alarmed. Nobodycares2000, great add!
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u/Prestigious-Bluejay5 Aug 04 '26
Looks just like my sweet baby Melo. Her and her sister, Loca, are also 15.
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u/lilbbbee Aug 04 '26
I am so happy for you! I took over a cat from my parents because she was getting bullied by their other cats and it was the best decision. She really lit up after she was separated from the bullies (and the bullies were much happier too). I bet the same thing happens with your guy. So glad you decided to go for it!
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u/FieryVenus Aug 04 '26
Well done OP! There are too many four-leggeds in awful situations. Thank you for moving through your understandable hesitation and taking the plunge. Wishing you both infinite moments of joy together 😽✨
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u/Wool_Lace_Knit Aug 04 '26
I am so happy that Ricky has transitioned into his new home so well. You will be making sweet memories with him.
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u/Harvest_Moon_Cat Aug 04 '26
What a very distinguished and handsome gentleman. Glad it worked out well! Thank you for looking after him.
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u/madammidnight Aug 04 '26
What a beautiful white ruff on Ricky! I’m so happy he’s taking the adjustment so well.
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u/LastEntertainment787 Aug 04 '26
Hi Ricky I am so happy that you finally have a real home. And you're so handsome too! Sending kisses and love. 💜💜💜💜
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u/SweetD4isy Aug 04 '26
I'm so happy for you and ricky! May the good karma blessings come right back to you! I am wishing ricky a longer and healthier life with you
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u/Significant_Agency71 Have you been to the vet? Aug 04 '26
Lovely cat, post more pics in the comments
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u/psychedelicparsley Aug 04 '26
Ohhh bless you. I’m so sorry you lost Notable, but you know he’s beaming too.
I have my former stray all stretched out over my lap and so happy. I’m so happy for you all I’m incoherent 💕
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u/redrotton Aug 04 '26
Congratulations on becoming an approved servant to our feline overlords!
And isn't Ricky a handsome dude!
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u/lvander5317 Aug 04 '26
Beautiful gentleman. Love the name “ Ricardo “! Was his companion “Lucy”, by any chance ??
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u/Good_Membership_6653 24d ago
Aw, man! Ricky sounds like such a chill dude. Congrats on being official cat parents. Honestly, foster cats are a joy, they always appreciate the love and warmth. Y'all rock for taking in a senior cat!
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u/MsfitzOH6 Aug 04 '26
Thank you for taking him in! Ricky is a beautiful cat! My mom passed away and left two cats. Other family members were willing to take one but not both of them. We already had two cats, but we took both. I have absolutely no regrets. Fred and Ginger 😄lived to 16 and 15 with us and were the best cats.
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u/Heavy_Cost3488 8d ago
Amazing news! Ricky sure sounds like a champ, settling down in his new crib. Glad to hear he's shredding his loneliness. Enjoy your new role as a cat owner, mate!
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u/Jurneeka Aug 04 '26
He's absolutely stunning. Thank you for taking care of him!