Having a Pet Is a Lifesaver During a Flare

My partner and I adopted our cat, Toomi Moo, about 2 years ago. My most recent flare started about 8 months ago, and it was Toomi's first experience with my ulcerative colitis. Lucky enough for me, I'd been around cats before while flaring and knew just how caring they can be – but I was curious to see how Toomi reacted.

Honestly, I can't recommend enough having a pet at home for people with illnesses such as UC and Crohn's. During my flares, I always have hard mornings. I'll get up around 5:00 in the morning to be in the bathroom until 7:00 or so, just trying to let my body do what it needs to do on the toilet. Usually, I spend these hours alone, just scrolling endlessly on my phone.

Company and comfort during a flare

This time around, Toomi figured out the routine quickly. She would wait by my bed and then follow me into the bathroom for her morning pets. If I closed the door, she would find a way to get it open so she could meow incessantly at me and wait for her head to be scratched. My partner even told me he was a little jealous of this special time Toomi and I got to spend together, which shocked me, seeing as I'd never had anyone feel envious of a symptom of my UC.

My cat also gives me purpose

Not only is Toomi a comfort to me in a flare, but knowing that I have to help take care of her gives me purpose when things feel like a sea of sickness. I have to admit, my partner ends up doing a lot of the feeding and litter box cleaning, but I'm often in charge of making sure Toomi's play needs are met and that we are ordering her supplies on time. I know that she depends on me, which means I can't get sucked into the void of illness —there is always a reason to step out of that place and back into the world of the able.

Pets don't mind our IBD symptoms either

While getting a cat, or any animal, can be a real commitment, I do think it is something to consider. The company is unmatched – and a pet rarely comments on bad bathroom scents or loud gas — and the sense of responsibility can really moor someone who is ill. Adopting is a perfect way to bring a new creature into your home, as long as you know it won't be a financial burden or an extra stressor.

On our last vet visit, we were told that Toomi might have inflammatory bowel disease too. Mostly, it leads to her throwing up after she eats too much. While I feel for my little cat, I'm not surprised. The two of us have a bond that only gets strengthened every day.