So sorry for your loss, OP, but I think I can see where your dad is coming from on this. When my bf moved in with me a couple of years ago, he had a lovely, but elderly cat who had numerous pee accidents all over our apartment. Beds, chairs, floors (thank god we don't have carpets), you name it. I was getting pretty fed up (and was pretty angry about it, something I'm not proud of, as my bf loved his cat). If the cat had damaged property belonging to guests, I'd have hit the ceiling. The vet couldn't say exacatly what was wrong with her. He prescribed meds but they didn't help much and her condition got even worse. Eventually the cat was put to sleep. Cats can develop all kinds of medical problems as they get older and sometimes vets have a hard time accurately diagnosing and successfully treating the problem. Sounds like your dad had reached the end of his patience. Finding another home for the cat would have been next to impossible, as there aren't many folks willing to risk damage to their property in order to have a pet. As for convincing your dad to get another cat, I think the suggestion about the hairless (or almost hairless) cat is a good one. A former boss of mine got one because his kids wanted a cat and he's allergic to cat hair. What a character this cat is! He is the source of endless amusing stories and his family adores him. Another suggestion is to give it some time and see if your dad softens a bit. Right now, the embarrassment of having your visiting family member's suitcase peed on might be too fresh in his mind! What does your mom and/or other family members think about getting another cat? It might help your cause if you had a bit of support.
