So I (25F) have a super shy rescue cat named Mochi. I’ve had her for a few years now, and she’s just barely starting to act like a normal cat. Like, she’ll actually come out and sit on the couch now instead of hiding under the bed 24/7. Progress! One of my close friends (also 25F) was visiting from out of town this weekend and asked if she could stay with me. No problem, I was excited to see her. But then she tells me she’s bringing her emotional support dog, he’s about 45-50lbs, super energetic, and very sweet, I’ve met him before. I immediately felt a little awkward because Mochi does not do well with dogs. Like, panic attacks and vomiting level of terrified. I told her, as gently as I could, that I didn’t think it would work. I suggested she stay at a nearby pet friendly Airbnb (there are plenty around here), and said I’d still love to hang out the whole time she’s in town. She got… weirdly upset. Told me I was being unsupportive and “prioritizing a cat over her mental health.” Said it was “just a couple days” and Mochi would “deal with it.” I explained that this wasn’t just a preference, my cat literally shuts down around dogs. She basically told me I was being cold and not understanding how important her ESA is for her anxiety. She ended up staying with another friend. But now she’s barely responding to texts, and posted some vague story on Instagram about people “not supporting neurodivergent friends with ESAs,” which felt… directed at me, honestly.

I really don’t think I did anything wrong. I don’t hate her dog, I just know my cat, and this would’ve wrecked her. I even offered a compromise! But now I’m wondering if I was too blunt or dismissive.

So yeah. AITA for saying no to the dog?