Increasing numbers of universities are allowing students to bring pets to school with them. But should those policies include cats? Every situation is different, as is every cat, but generally speaking, I’m against temporarily transplanting a cat unless it's absolutely necessary.
Cats are very territory-centric. They are more comforted by their own territory and their own scents than they are even by those of us who feed, pamper and adore them. Relocating a cat isn't a trivial change for them. In fact, it can be quite distressing. It can take a cat a very long time to adjust to such a move. That's a big deal because it will happen again and again whenever there’s a break from school. I see no need to put a cat through all of that stress if you don't have to.
Cats also prefer being on a regular schedule. What happens when you go on a rafting trip one weekend, and a football trip the next and back home the next? What about when you audition for a play or end up in the computer lab every night before a big project is due? Who will care for your cat during those times, and will they be well cared for? No offense, but college students aren't always the most reliable people. They have a lot on their minds. A cat needs to be a priority, not an afterthought.
There are also some unique dangers associated with campus life. I won't be too graphic, but where there are drunken frat boys, there are potential dangers to everyone. Your cat may not have as much fun being there for you as you think they will.
One thing you should definitely do is to leave things with your scent on them at home whenever you visit. A pair of sweatpants or an old t-shirt left in one of your cat’s prime sleeping spots will comfort them in your absence. Yes, they’ll miss you when you're gone, but they’ll still be happier at home and they’ll thoroughly enjoy your visits, even if they sometimes pretend not to. That's just how cats are. They don't like change, but any cat you’ve bonded with will always be your special friend.
Going off to college is about growing up, and a big part of growing up is learning to put others needs before your own sometimes. Think about what's best for your cat and I think you'll conclude, as I have, that they’ll be better off at home.
Author: Tom Kirby, UW-AAB - cat behaviorist
I’m certified in applied animal behavior and have years of experience solving the specific problems faced by cat caregivers like you every day.
I’m here to help you and your feline friends live happier, healthier lives together.
