As we all know, September is back to school season. There are joyful college freshmen everywhere. My niece is also looking forward to her freshman life in college, she is super exciting, but the only thing that makes her feel sad is to be separated from her cat.
Should Students Bring Their Pet to College?
This has been a controversial topic. In the past years, most colleges and universities prohibited students to take their pet to campus and do not allow keeping a pet in dormitory. But as millennial Z generation enters college life, things change. Now at least 4% of US colleges are pet-friendly, with policies that allow pets on campus.
Why some colleges turn to be pet-friendly?
According to a 2021 report from Washington State University, three out of four first-year college students report pet separation anxiety. There are also statistics indicates spending as little as 10 minutes with a companion pet can lower stress levels. Many college students report missing their pets back home. Approx 79% of college students say their pets get them through hard emotional times or help them through those tough teenage years.
Moreover, 33% of millennial are pet owners. They are largest age group or generation to own and care for pet in the whole United States now, followed by Gen X (25%), Boomers (24%), and Gen Z (16%).
If your school do not allow a pet on campus, do not worry. You can looking for renting nearby the campus. Off-campus housing increases options for pet owners in college.
What You Need To Prepare When Plan To Bring Your Cat To School?
You do have to face certain restrictions. Most dorms do not allow many common pets like cats and dogs. Usually, these dorms allow minor pets like lizards, cuckold and fish. Probably, these kind of pets are quiet, can not make a fuss and are easy to hide.
By the way, I am not saying snake become a good choice instead, since many students are afraid of snakes. And many off-campus rentals also restrict the kinds of pets renters.
Can You Have A Cat In A College Dorm?
College students living in dorms often want to have a pet or want to take their pet friend along to living in dormitory. But whether you can bring a pet to your dorm depends on the roommate and school. At most dorms, your pet options are limited to animals like fish. Many dorms also allow small caged animals like hamsters.
Make sure to carefully review the pet policies before you show up on campus.
First, Seek permission from housemates.
Most roommates welcome a pet friend. They are so excited to pat your cat or dog everyday. If they also have a hobby like photography, your pet will be the super model. But if you have a roommate who is allergic to fur or has asthma, probably it is better to get off-campus housing instead. All roommates will feel a bit unpleasant if there are some friction caused by your pet.
Second, Do keep your pet inside when you go to class.
There is an accident that your pet run away. I've seen a roommate take the pet out of the cage to stroke with the pet, but forgetting to get the pet back into cage in time. Then it takes us hours to find the pet.
Your pet may be your only friend that makes you happy while attending college. It is tolerant to your communication issues, lack of time, or poor training techniques. Running between coursework, assignments, and being active in college can be overwhelming and take a huge chunk of your time with your tom.
Third, the cat's cleaning and waste thing.
Please remember to clean up everyday.
What are the essentials if to have a cat in dorm?
Here is an essential checklist for your cat new life:
1. Toys.
The neon shining Tug Whirl is quite popular now. It is small and flexible. Your cat can also have a great time even when in the a small dormitory.
2. Grooming.
You can take to cat to local grooming service. But many college students choose to do grooming service by themselves. The only thing you need is a miracle Brush that solves cat shedding problems. The pet nail clipper has been so helpful, it is easy to use and you can cut the nails between pads like never before.
3. Cleaning.
This Disposable Cleaning wipes will greatly reduce your pet cleaning work.
4. Sleeping
Non-Slip Cat Litter Mat prevents cat litter from getting everywhere. It is easy clean and very stain-resistant.
5. Treat
This cute Lollipop Cat Treat is super appealing to cats. Shaped like cat treats, it's ideal for your roommates to engage with and feed your cat.
All said and done, all work and no play makes top a dull cat. Create a cat-friendly environment is one of the best ways to balance your cat's emotional, physical, and mental needs. Just in case your cat care routine was off the trail for a minute, these tips will help improve your relationship with the cat and enjoy your happy&valuable college life with your cat together, although most times, cats don't ask much from you.