How to Convince Your Parents to Let You Get a Cat
So you want to adopt a kitty? Same.
No really, same! You're talking to a cat convincing pro right now. I've convinced my parents to adopt a cute furry friend not once, not twice, but three times throughout my life. You could say I feel pretty pawsitive about my pet adoption advice.
If you want a cat but you know your 'rents aren't feeling the love, follow the below steps right meow. I can't guarantee your parents will agree, but I can advise you to a purrfect plan.
1. Start Bringing It Up Casually
Before you actually flat-out propose a feline companion, bring the idea up casually. Start small by talking up the most attractive kitty traits and, heck, even show your 'rents all the cute cat videos you can find. (There are a lot by the way.) Chip away at that ice slowly so that your parents subconsciously start to see the value in owning a cat.
2. Do Your Research
This is not a suggestion; it's a necessity. Research everything there is to know about kittens and cats, from breeds to developmental traits to the best local vets. You want to come to this conversation prepared. For starters, it'll make your parents feel less stressed about the prospect ahead, as well as show off some of your responsibility. If you're willing to do the work, your parents are more likely to accept the request.
3. Show Off How Responsible Your Are
Research is all well and good, but you'll also want to take action around the house. We hear it speaks louder than words. Fulfill your responsibilities, from chores to homework to sibling help (and do so without complaining or requiring allowance).
It's one thing to promise your parents you'll take on the duties of owning a pet, but it's another thing to actually follow through. They'll want to feel confident that your claims come to fruition, so showing them ahead of time is a great action-based way to make your case.
4. Visit Shelters
Start visiting shelters and, yes, insist on your 'rents tagging along. Let these cute cuddles do some of the work for you by allowing them to purr their way into your parents' hearts. There should be no pressure to adopt on these days. Instead, you want your family to see that a kitty is everything they never knew they needed in their life.
5. Make a Pros/Cons List
Sit down and make an extensive list of the pros and cons of owning a cat. By no means should you leave out the cons! Presenting your parents with this well-thought out list is a great way to settle their anxieties.
Showing that you recognize some cons come along with a kitty companion does two things: One, it tells your parents that you've thought about and are ready for some of the less glamorous realities ahead of you; and two, it gives them a chance to see that this is a responsible decision rather than a fleeting obsession.
6. Turn That Con Upside Down
Now that you have your list of cons, turn them into something pawsitive. This is your chance to produce a counter-argument to any pet-owning aspect your parents see as negative. Combat the cons by finding ways around them, learning from them or, at the very least, planning for them.
For example, if one of your cons is that the litter box smells, research ways to decrease the stink before it becomes an issue. The more answers you have on hand, the more likely your parents will come around to the idea.
7. Be Patient
You don't want to rush your parents' decision. By putting pressure on them, you risk overwhelming two already stressed-out adults. You must approach adults verrrrrry carefully if you want that coveted "yes." Find subtle ways to bring up your feline feelings a few times per week without being too forward or naggy.
Parents want to feel like everything was their decision. Just watch, once you finally get your cat, your parents are totally going to hog all the play time.
8. Practice With Someone Else's Pet
If your parents require an extra dose of convincing, you can sign up to become a foster parent or pet-sitter. You'll be able to experience having a cat around the house and all of the responsibilities that come along with pet parenting without the lifetime commitment.
This takes a little more time and effort, but it's really the most responsible way to decide if a cat is compatible with the family. Plus, this way, you can answer any questions you have regarding the age of your pet, breed type and feeding options. It's really the purrfect solution.
As you can tell by these steps, owning a pet requires a lot of work. But are you really up for the challenge? Click HERE for the signs that you're ready to take care of a pet.