I’ve always wanted a cat since I was a kid, but my parents hate them. Four years ago, I moved out for school and finally convinced them to let me get a pet—on the condition it wasn’t a cat. So, I got two gerbils and cared for them deeply. I built them an enclosure, gave them homemade meals, and they were well-loved.
But deep down, I always wanted a cat. I recently adopted a kitten, knowing cats and gerbils aren’t the best mix, but I thought I made everything secure. For a while, it worked—until today. I woke up and one of my gerbils was gone. There were remnants of her left, and I’m devastated. I thought I had everything set up safely, but I was wrong. Now I’m struggling with guilt, grief, and not knowing how to feel about my cat.
I know it’s not my cat’s fault—it’s just instinct—but I still feel terrible. Should I rehome my other gerbil? I feel like I failed them, especially my gerbil who is gone. RIP Coco, I hope I gave you the best life while you were with me. I’m mourning and just needed to get this off my chest.
Please avoid scolding, I already know I messed up.
It sounds like you’ve already realized this, but bringing a cat into a home with gerbils was risky. Cats are natural hunters. I’m sorry you’re feeling this way, but remember that your gerbil had a good life with you. Maybe it’s best to focus on the future and find what’s best for your remaining gerbil.
I’m sorry for your loss. It’s natural for a cat to have hunting instincts, but it still sucks. Maybe rehoming the remaining gerbil is the right call if you’re unsure of keeping them together safely.
Haru said:
I’m sorry for your loss. It’s natural for a cat to have hunting instincts, but it still sucks. Maybe rehoming the remaining gerbil is the right call if you’re unsure of keeping them together safely.
Yeah, I’m thinking about rehoming her. I want her to be safe, and I’m not sure I can provide that anymore.
@Aeron
It’s a hard decision, but you’re thinking about what’s best for your pets. Just make sure wherever she goes, they understand how to keep her safe.
I think it’s important to remember that your cat is not to blame—she was acting on instinct. It’s up to us to create the safest environment for all our pets. I’m really sorry this happened.
I’m genuinely sorry this happened to you. It’s tough to deal with, but don’t be too hard on yourself. Mistakes happen. Just make sure your remaining gerbil stays safe going forward.