It is usually easier to find rentals or condos that allow cats than those that allow dogs or other pets. So, you’ve already got one thing going for you! With these suggestions, we hope you find the perfect home for you and your feline.
1. Be honest. Let the landlord know you have a cat(s).
2. Do your research. Visit PETS911.com find cat-friendly rental options. Keeping the family together is important!
3. Clean up. Practice good cat hygiene before and after moving into your new apartment – clean out your litter box regularly. Keeping odors out of hallways and out of your apartment will keep your neighbors and landlord happy. And, it’s healthier for you and your cat.
4. Mind the claws. Does your cat scratch? Provide a scratching post for your cat instead of the door frames. It’s cheaper than losing your security deposit.
5. Preview your new pad. Prior to moving in, be sure to do a “pre-move-in damage inspection” and have your landlord sign off on this as well. This way, you won’t be charged for pre-existing conditions. Better yet, your landlord will probably fix them prior to your moving in date.
6. Money talks. Be prepared to pay a little higher security deposit and/or monthly rent if you have a cat. Not all landlords will require this, but some may. It’s better to be prepared for it than not to have it.
7. Get it in writing. Ask what the landlord considers to be “pet damages” and make sure what is agreed upon is in writing. Be sure to follow any pet guidelines in the apartment complex. This way, you will know what you can be charged …and what you can’t be charged … when you move out.
8. Oh behave! Get behavioral training for your cat if you know they have some issues (e.g. spraying). These behaviors may be corrected before you move…and may even have a medical basis behind them.
9. Stay healthy. Be sure your cat is current on all required vaccinations. This benefits your cat as well as other pets in the apartment complex. While at the vet, ask about the benefits of having your cat microchipped.
10. Play tag. Please put a collar and identification tag on your cat. For added security, consider a microchip. Even indoor cats can’t resist an open door or window all the time. Plus, when moving, there are greater opportunities to escape or become skittish. A collar and tag will get your cat back to you much faster. Many cats without collars are thought to be feral. Even worse, your beloved pet could end up in a kill shelter. So, please protect your best friend.
Welcome home!
1. Be honest. Let the landlord know you have a cat(s).
2. Do your research. Visit PETS911.com find cat-friendly rental options. Keeping the family together is important!
3. Clean up. Practice good cat hygiene before and after moving into your new apartment – clean out your litter box regularly. Keeping odors out of hallways and out of your apartment will keep your neighbors and landlord happy. And, it’s healthier for you and your cat.
4. Mind the claws. Does your cat scratch? Provide a scratching post for your cat instead of the door frames. It’s cheaper than losing your security deposit.
5. Preview your new pad. Prior to moving in, be sure to do a “pre-move-in damage inspection” and have your landlord sign off on this as well. This way, you won’t be charged for pre-existing conditions. Better yet, your landlord will probably fix them prior to your moving in date.
6. Money talks. Be prepared to pay a little higher security deposit and/or monthly rent if you have a cat. Not all landlords will require this, but some may. It’s better to be prepared for it than not to have it.
7. Get it in writing. Ask what the landlord considers to be “pet damages” and make sure what is agreed upon is in writing. Be sure to follow any pet guidelines in the apartment complex. This way, you will know what you can be charged …and what you can’t be charged … when you move out.
8. Oh behave! Get behavioral training for your cat if you know they have some issues (e.g. spraying). These behaviors may be corrected before you move…and may even have a medical basis behind them.
9. Stay healthy. Be sure your cat is current on all required vaccinations. This benefits your cat as well as other pets in the apartment complex. While at the vet, ask about the benefits of having your cat microchipped.
10. Play tag. Please put a collar and identification tag on your cat. For added security, consider a microchip. Even indoor cats can’t resist an open door or window all the time. Plus, when moving, there are greater opportunities to escape or become skittish. A collar and tag will get your cat back to you much faster. Many cats without collars are thought to be feral. Even worse, your beloved pet could end up in a kill shelter. So, please protect your best friend.
Welcome home!
