Yesterday, my son's great grandmother died. Today, the most beautiful white kitten, with gold tipped ears and a gold tail, and gorgeous blue eyes showed up at our house. I don't know why it chose our house, but I do know we wanted to keep it. But what if it belonged to someone and got out of the house accidentally? What if it was sick? What if we kept it? Ultimately, we decided to take it to the animal shelter because it might belong to someone or a coyote might eat it.
My son cried and cried regardless of me telling him to not get attached to it. He got attached to it, of course. He named it, "Kitty" of course. It was thin so we gave it some milk. It drank nearly an entire bowl! Kitty climbed a giant tree and wouldn't come down when we were going to take it to the shelter, so we left it. I had secret hopes its owner would show up and claim it. Upon our return, it was waiting for us in the tree.
The right action was to take the kitten to the animal shelter. I know it was. I also know it felt really crappy to do so. Out of all the homes on the block, this kitten found our house and wanted to be part of our family. But we already have a dog who isn't fond of cats, a father who is allergic to and who dislikes cats, and limited funds to take care of another animal. And while my son was entranced with the kitten, I knew that 'love' would wear off quickly, and cat care would become the responsibility of me or my husband. Could we do that?
Ultimately, the answer was no. Kitty, riding in a basket with a beach towel, sat next to my son on the way to the shelter. I tried once more to get my husband to agree to keep it. I drove slowly and took a circuitous route as I worked on him. To no avail. Finally, the animal shelter was in sight, and my son and I kept talking to Kitty, convincing Kitty and us that this was the right decision for us all.
I held that warm bundle of gorgeousness until an employee came and took her. I felt her purring with contentment and saw her shake with fear as she left us. To make us feel better, I gave the shelter my phone number if no one wants her.
Although the decision sucked, it was the right decision. At least, I hope so.
