[svandamme]

Paul, old age and pets , is a problem, but In my opinion it should not mean no pets.

Ive been taking care of my 84 year old alzheimer aunt ; she lost her dog 3 years ago because dog to big, rescue animal, to strong for frail aunt who is unstable and dogs need a walk and lots of consistency.

her son was adement, no more pets, well the lonelyness became a huge sad thing to see.
Nothing worse then an old person living alone, with deminishing mobility, and abilities.

I couldn't override her son on it, not my place
But had it been up to me I would have gone to the local cattery, and make them a proposal:

They have old cats nobody wants
Offer them to take an old cat off their hand on the agreement that they will check up on her from time to time.. and if it becomes to difficult they will either help out , or take the cat back

Everybody wins
Old person has a cat
the cat is out of the cage
the cattery has one cat less to worry and feed

There is no risk, and there is no animal brought in the world that might end up alone : its already in a cage, so thats no argument not to take one in.

Especially when the partner passes , the last one standing will be very alone.
Thats when that old cat will be needed the most.

There are plenty of old , unwanted animals
or those who due to Feline HIV can't be placed in homes with other pets.

they are very gratefull for a warm place and somebody to give em some attention
The catteries really need to think outside the box, and set up programs like this.