WWYD — Cat separation
I very recently went through an awful, sudden breakup. We were engaged, and lived together for over 2 years with a cat I adopted the year before, and a cat that was gifted to them from a hoarder house in 2022 that we'll call "Alex".
They cheated. I found out, and they packed up their stuff and left the next day with Alex to a different state. I had no choice, no say, and was forced to say goodbye out of nowhere. I sobbed, hugged his carrier, and begged them for just one more night, to which they said no. They didn't even say goodbye to my cat. He slept with me almost every night and was glued to me after I had a major surgery recently.
I took care of Alex as a part of my daily routine. For over 2 years, I fed him, bought the food, litter, litter boxes, bowls, toys, etc. He was never microchipped even though I strongly encouraged them to do it. Alex also had no shots, but was neutered when they received first him. I paid for and administered monthly flea preventative for both the cats. I made the vet appointment for Alex's shots (along with my cat), paid for it, and was listed as his owner on the paperwork (since I made the appointment). On paper, he had my last name.
It's hard to accept that he's gone just like that, when he was once a part of my permanent family for so long. I wasn't just the girlfriend that sometimes fed him.
My ex loves him to pieces, and I wouldn't necessarily call them negligent. I would never want someone to try and take my cat. I feel for them, but I also feel for Alex and his best interest. Would you try to pursue getting the cat back?