Are College Students Suited for Cat Ownership?
Living with a cat in the dormitory is a decision that requires careful consideration. First and foremost, you must seek the consent of your roommates. If even one of them is against it, the idea of having a feline companion must be abandoned immediately. And if you have roommates who are allergic to cat dander, it's best to reconsider the idea right away. Cats shed heavily, and despite your diligent grooming efforts, shedding is an inevitable part of their nature.
Moreover, the safety of the cat is of paramount importance. You must ensure that none of your roommates have a tendency to abuse animals and would not harm your cat when you're not around, especially if the cat is causing them discomfort.
Student dormitories present unique safety and hygiene challenges when it comes to housing a cat. Most dorms have balconies, but they are rarely "sealed off," leaving the question of how to prevent your cat from jumping off. Should you consider keeping it in a cage?
After adopting a cat, the workload for maintaining the cleanliness of your dormitory will also increase. After all, the cat's eating, drinking, and waste will be shared in the same small space as you. It's hard to imagine the "smell fest" that could ensue when your cat uses the bathroom!
Cats are not fully domesticated animals, and their obedience is not as reliable as that of dogs. Many of their behaviors are instinctual and driven by nature, making them difficult to control. Imagine the destruction they could cause, from tearing up yoga mats and trampling on notebooks to leaving their mark in your roommate's bed (urine and feces), running around at night, or even "singing" passionately. The list of potential mischiefs is endless, and you might end up offending all your roommates. So, don't rush into the decision to keep a cat without thinking it through.
Financial support is also a necessity when it comes to pet ownership. Cat litter and food are the most basic monthly expenses, but they are just the tip of the iceberg. You'll also need to budget for deworming, vaccinations, and spaying or neutering. And while these costs are manageable, the real challenge comes when your cat falls ill, and you're faced with potentially thousands of dollars in veterinary bills.
Lastly, there's the issue of what to do with your cat after graduation. How many of us have seen countless campus strays that were once cherished pets? These animals have a poor chance of surviving in the wild if abandoned, often facing either rescue or death.
Can college students truly dedicate the time, energy, and finances needed to care for a cat after facing the dual pressures of postgraduation life and internships?!
As a student, it's not advisable to keep a pet, especially when financial independence and stability are not guaranteed. However, if you already have a cat, I urge you to remain committed to it. If you're unable to continue caring for it, find a loving new home for your pet. Alternatively, you can channel your love for cats by participating in or organizing a stray cat rescue group. This can involve spaying and feeding, building shelters, and even finding adoptive homes. Not only will you be helping the stray cats, but you'll also be gaining valuable experience that can be invaluable to college students.
