My mother died and I don't know what to do with her stupid cat

The following letter has been edited for clarity and coherence.

Dear AmoMama,

I've never been fond of animals, and I am especially leery of cats. My mother, on the other hand, has always loved them, to excess, I always felt.

Unfortunately, she died six months ago, and she left me her house, one of the provisions of her will being that I take care of her old cat until it dies.

I tried, I really, really tried, but honestly, I just can't warm to the creature. I treat it humanely, of course, and feed it, keep the litter clean.

The repulsive animal runs after me everywhere, rubbing itself against my legs, which I just hate, and yesterday I found it sleeping on my bed!

This is the last straw! The thing is a blue Persian and shed like crazy. My bed was full of hair. The stupid thing cost me a fortune in grooming and vets fees, and I'm thinking of having it euthanized. It's not a young animal, it is at least 10 years old, so honestly, I don't think it would be that much of a loss.

What worries me, is that my mother was very specific, and the cat is supposed to die a natural death. Is it worth it to just stick it out? I'm very unhappy. The whole house smells like a stinky old cat. It is like living with a giant furry cockroach. What can I do?

If you need help or advice, reach out to us, and thousands of women just like you who are struggling with the difficulties of life. You are not alone, we are here for you, and we listen; so write to us anonymously using this form.