I guess you could just let it go, but for me i would have to stand up and say what i believe in, I personally can never understand anyone not liking cats, i mean what is there to not like about cats, they are adorable in every way, however i do respect that other's do not necessarily share my opinion, and as long as they respect that i do adore cats, then that is fine with me,i can understand someone not really wanting a cat, but to say they hate them, well to me they are a very sad individual indeed and certainly have not experienced the love of an animal ,and are missing out big time.

If it were me i would be saying oh you are not keen on cats,? i just love them myself, however each to their own, or something simple along those lines.

Just because she is older makes no difference, i am a mature older women, and i think i would have no problem if someone said that to me.

Anyhow the ball is in your court so to speak, it is entirely your decision whether to keep biting your tongue and eventually biting it off lol, just kidding, or stand up and speak, GOOD LUCK.