I adopted two adorable kittens from foster care. They’re playful and full of energy, with their typical kitten mischief, like getting the roomies at 5 a.m. Still, they aren’t disruptive.
I am planning to return them because I am struggling to keep up with their care. I have ASD and depression, and I thought adopting them would lift my spirits and my mom’s since we live together. But from the moment they arrived, I realized, “I’ve made a big mistake.”
I have gotten overwhelmed a few times, and it’s been tough to manage. Sometimes, the responsibilities I promised to take on fall to my mom, which understandably frustrates her.
The kittens are amazing, but I just don’t feel capable of giving them the care they need. They deserve a home where someone isn’t breaking down over them.
I needed to get this off my chest because I don’t have anyone to talk to about it.
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It’s common to feel overwhelmed when getting a new pet because they bring new duties and changes. If you’re still thinking about keeping the kittens, talk to your mom about how you’re feeling. Sharing part of the care could alleviate the stress, and she may be more supportive than you realize.
Cats thrive on routine, so scheduling regular feeding and play times may make you feel more organized and in control, which can improve your self-care. Additionally, spending time with a purring cat might improve your mood.
You certainly care about them, and I imagine you’d be sad to see them leave. However, if rehoming is the best option, ensure that they find a suitable home so that you can be confident in your decision. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed—managing change can be difficult. Take your time to decide what’s best for you.
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I have two kitties. Every time I receive a new kitten, I feel overwhelmed. They’re so small, surprising, and new. Getting to know their personalities and quirks can be overwhelming. Getting used to a new schedule and a new housemate (or two) takes time. Kittens are little freaks, drunkenly exploring the world with unbounded enthusiasm, but they eventually settle down.
Focus on developing a schedule that works for you - set alarms and make lists to remind yourself of feeding times, litter cleaning, and so on. We put a whiteboard on the fridge and crossed off when the cats were fed (as they always convinced someone they hadn’t been fed), but you might use it as a visual reminder of the chores you accomplish each day.
I suffer from anxiety (and have previously experienced clinical depression). It’s incredibly relaxing to have a purring cat nestled up against you. And nothing beats watching kittens wrestle to get you out of your head and into the moment. I’ve discovered that the benefits of unconditional love for a cat outweigh the reservations I have about attempting to be their everything person.
If they are actually too much for you, act swiftly to see if the shelter where you obtained them will accept them. Kittens are more easier to adopt than older cats. It’s okay to be self-aware enough to realize this isn’t for you right now.
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Contact the organization through which you adopted them.
Please do not get pets until you are in a better position. It’ll be better for both you and them.
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Return them and receive an older one from the rescue. And do what @WhiskerWizardWill has advised you to on this thread please.
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Return the kittens immediately and request adult cats instead. The kittens are still young enough to be quite adoptable. Everyone wants newborn kittens. If you wait any longer, you will just make it more difficult for them to find a home. You tried. There is no shame in recognizing that you are not the best match for an adopted pet.
Adult cats are considerably calmer and will not stress you out as much.
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If you return them, then do NOT get another pet until you are CERTAIN you will be able to care for them. I don’t know where did you get the idea from. 