I’m going to have to give up my cats

DEAR DEIDRE: Now my partner has left, I can’t afford the rent – and as I can’t find another flat that allows pets, I’m probably going to have to give up my cats. I’m heartbroken.

My partner moved in with me after my husband left. I’m 52. My husband worked abroad so we had difficulty reconnecting when he’d come back.

We’d argue about things and finally he moved back to his mother’s and left me paying the rent.

My partner is 35 and we got together when he fitted some new door locks. We clicked and a few weeks later, he moved in – and thank goodness he did. I couldn’t really afford to live there alone.

But things haven’t lasted. His friends are getting married and having kids and that’s what he wants – something I can’t give him.

He’s left now and I’m alone again. I’d like a new relationship but it isn’t easy at my age.

My cats are both rescues and they are old so are as good as gold. My landlord is happy I have my cats. He says they keep the mice away.

Unfortunately, other landlords are not as accommodating and I’m so upset that I may have to give them up.

DEIDRE SAYS: Talk to your landlord about your difficulties and ask whether they would agree to you letting a room out to a lodger.

If this isn’t feasible or is not something you wish to do, you may still be able to find an alternative place to rent which takes cats.

Consider moving to a cheaper area or renting a smaller place. Cats can adapt well to new surroundings.

Check out The Dogs Trust, it has a letswithpets.org.uk site full of advice on how to find a pet-friendly property.

My support pack about widening your social scene may help you to find a new relationship when you’re ready.