Totally get this. Also being an expat in Thailand, earlier this year I got 2 cats. I knew they'd mean certain complications/sacrifice - but those were worth it. What I didn't account for (or predict) was dramatic changes in my life, and now I have to adapt whilst taking the cats into consideration at every step to ensure they're continued happiness. I love them like my own kids and could not be separated from them, but this does bring about sacrifices and limitations.