Pet Parents and Separation: Who Gets the Kitten?

The end of a relationship can be a difficult time. There are a lot of intense emotions and some important logistical elements to arrange. While it is normal for both of you to want to move forward as cleanly as possible, you may find unexpected obstacles to this.

An increasingly common complication is making arrangements for a shared pet. Your cat is just as part of your family as any other human being. As such, the thought of not being able to take them with you can be heartbreaking. It is possible that your ex-partner was experiencing the same feelings.

So how do you proceed in this scenario? Let’s take a closer look at some options.

Consider possible joint parenting

In essence, what happens to your cat after a separation is essentially a custody issue. However, it is not completely legally complicated. In the eyes of UK law, A pet is treated as personal property. As such, if the case is to go to court, custody of your cat will likely go to whoever bought it.

We hope you both want to avoid this kind of issue. In this case, a joint custody arrangement may be the most sensible way forward. However, it should make the arrangements for this as clear as possible to all concerned. Agree on time division, arrangements for veterinary or pet insurance costs, and emergency protocols. Cooperate in creating a positive situation that does not put your cat under undue stress.

Image source: Pixels

Review your resources

Unfortunately, co-parenting is not always a practical way forward. Not only that it may create a file Disrupt your cat’s living arrangements, but it also keeps you and your ex-partner in close contact. You may not be comfortable with any of the possibilities.

Another way to determine who will get your cat is to look at it largely from a financial perspective. Part of dealing with the stress of getting out of the box after a breakup Including treating your pet’s custody in a reasonable manner. Don’t just look at who paid for your shared cat; Consider who has the best financial resources to continue taking care of them. Which of you actually pays the most for food and other costs? Who can continue to live in a property where it can be safe and comfortable?

Understand their needs

You and your ex may have strong personal feelings about who your cat should live with, but this should not be the driving force behind your decisions. Both of you need to come to an agreement where you put your cat’s needs first, no matter what outcome this produces. After all, you have a certain responsibility to put their interests above your own.

Deal with this by getting together to consider your cat’s needs. This can include their physical need for space and whether one or both of you can provide it. If they have a disability, this should include considerations of the impact on health It can move into a new home or between owners. Even determining which cat has the closest relationship should play a role. Use this information to make your final choice.

Be aware of your cat’s current needs during this process. The tension between you and your partner may be palpable. As such, your cat may start to adopt stress or Behavior caused by anxiety, such as chewing on electrical wires. This not only damages property – it can also be dangerous for your pet. If you find it difficult to reduce stress, be sure to provide plenty of chew toys to calm their anxiety.

conclusion

We regularly write about all things cat-related on our Katzenworld blog!

My partner and I own five cheeky cats who deal with all kinds of mischief of course, and you’ll also be able to learn more about our blog

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