Dear Abby: My husband refuses to let me get a new cat
New York Post
Last updated: May 9, 2026
A medically retired individual is seeking advice on how to manage their stay-at-home husband's involvement in household tasks and daily routines. The wife feels overwhelmed by his constant presence and perceived lack of contribution, leading to frustration.
- The wife is medically retired and her husband, a former stay-at-home dad, is now home full-time on Social Security. She feels he is too involved in her daily life and contributes little to household chores, despite having many interests. This constant presence has become a source of irritation for her. She desires more personal space and for him to be more self-sufficient in his daily activities. The wife is looking for strategies to improve their living situation and reduce her feelings of being overwhelmed. She believes he could be more independent and less reliant on her for structure or activity.
