Seven reasons why cats are the best college pet
Photo via Assistant Opinion Editor Sierra Etkin
Being a college student brings with it a myriad of new challenges and stressors to the lives of budding young adults. One of the best ways to relieve stress and anxiety is having a pet or emotional support animal (ESA). ESAs, also known as comfort or assistance animals, are not specifically trained to perform tasks (like a service dog whose purpose is to help with certain tasks or health complications). Rather, their intended purpose is largely to bring comfort and happiness to their owner.
As a cat mom myself, I can tell you first-hand that getting a cat before moving into my apartment was one of the best decisions I’ve made. Not only has my little ball of fur improved my mental health, but there are many other reasons why I find owning a pet in college so beneficial. Without further ado, here’s a list of seven reasons why adopting a cat can be beneficial for college students:
Cats are usually pretty quiet. If noise levels are a concern, whether that be in a dorm or apartment, cats could be the right choice for you. Comparatively, the loudest meow will be much quieter than a barking dog.
Cats are low maintenance. They typically don’t require much, if any, formal training, unlike a puppy. They don’t need to be taken outside multiple times a day, as most kittens are litter-trained from the start. Cats also don’t need to be groomed regularly, unlike some animals that require monthly baths and a haircut. It is important to note, however, that some long-haired cats may need to be brushed to maintain a healthy coat.
Cats take up less space. Most cats are smaller than an average dog, and therefore need less space to roam freely. Most college dorms and apartments have limited space, which makes it more difficult to have a dog as a pet. In smaller spaces, it can be helpful to add different vertical levels like a cat tree or window hammock. The addition of a cat tree or something similar will help your cat feel less fearful, and may make them less likely to hide. Adding vertical space increases a cat’s livable area, making them happier overall.
Cats cost less to care for. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the overall cost of caring for cats is lower on average than for dogs. Cats require less food, fewer toys, and lower grooming costs. Typically, a $30 bag of cat food lasts my cat about 3 months—equaling only $10 a month for food. Litter can be as cheap as $12 and should last for about a month as well. On average, cats need to visit the vet less than dogs. A wellness appointment once a year is advised to make sure your cat is healthy and thriving.
Cats have a long lifespan. When I first moved into my dorm, I got a tiny betta fish because I was desperate for some kind of pet. Unfortunately, their lifespan is quite short and he was only around for a short time. Cats, on the other hand, have an average lifespan of 12 years or longer. It’s a truly heartbreaking experience to lose a pet, but thankfully with cats, you won’t need to worry about that for a long time!
Cats are good for your health. Emotional support animals should make you feel happier by helping relieve stress. Studies have shown that cats have a calming effect on their owners, whether it's the soothing action of petting them or being an aid in falling asleep. Cats can even help lower blood pressure. This statistic is shocking: cat owners are 30% less likely to die of a heart attack than non-cat owners.
Cats help you learn responsibility. At this age, we are able to take care of ourselves and our space. Taking on the responsibility of an animal is a big step, but it further proves that you are a responsible young adult. It’s still crazy to me that I’m the sole caretaker of a living being, but it has helped me take more responsibility, be cleaner, and be extra conscious of what I’m spending my money on.
Just to seal the deal for anyone who is interested in adopting, the article photo is a picture of my cat Bean (you’re welcome). I have never once regretted adopting my cat, even though she can be chaotic at times (okay…a lot of the time).
If this article speaks to you and piques an interest in fostering or adopting, the Humane Society of Livingston County is in desperate need of foster homes for cats and kittens. They even provide food, litter, medication, veterinary care, and other systems of support, which makes the cost of having a cat even lower! More information about fostering or adopting can be found on their website, https://humanesocietylivco-ny.org/!