For example, you could say something like, “Did you know cats are pretty easy to take care of? And they’re so quiet so you wouldn’t even notice them around!” or, “My friend just got a new kitten and it’s so cute! I wish I could have one too. ”
Ask your friends to send you pictures and videos of their cats. For example, you could say something like, “Look at this picture Dan just sent me of his cat sleeping on his lap! That would be pretty cozy, wouldn’t it?”
For example, you can ask, “I know you don’t want a cat in the house. Could you please explain why?” Your family might also have an issue if they’re worried about the cat making a mess or if someone has a cat allergy.
For example, you may want to find a breed that’s more relaxed and doesn’t require a lot of attention while you’re at school, such as Maine Coons or Ragdoll cats. [6] X Research source Get your parents involved while you’re researching so they can warm up to the idea even more. Look into the pros and cons of getting an adult cat compared to a kitten. Kittens require a lot more supervision and attention than adult cats. [7] X Trustworthy Source HelpGuide Nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources. Go to source Ask for advice from your friends who have cats so you can learn from someone who has hands-on experience.
For example, you could have sections listing what breeds you’re interested in, how they behave, and what ways you’ve shown that you’re responsible enough for a pet.
For example, if you have a family member that’s allergic to cats, you can say, “I know you were concerned about mom’s allergies, but here are a few hypo-allergenic breeds I found. ” As another example, if they’re worried about a smelly litter box, you can bring up odor-eliminating litter options or a covered litter box.
Cats will also hunt small animals that could get into your home, like mice. [12] X Trustworthy Source HelpGuide Nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources. Go to source Let them know a lot of cats are really loving and love to bond with people, so they make great companions. [13] X Research source
If you already have another pet, take some extra time to look after them to show that you’re mature enough to take care of your own pet.
Even if you can’t afford the cost of a cat entirely, your parents will see that you took the initiative and are willing to help out and take care of your new pet.
Remember that different breeds of cats behave differently, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t get along with one cat.
If you can’t get your parents to go to a shelter with you, show them some brochures or look online to see if they’ve posted pictures of the available cats online. Ask the animal shelter if they have any fostering programs. That way, you can bring a cat home and test-run taking care of it before committing to adopting or buying one.
