Why Do Landlords Not Allow Cats?

Landlords don’t allow cats because they don’t want to deal with potential damage, odors, fleas, and general pet-related issues that could arise. Even if your cat has never had an accident and you’re a meticulously clean pet parent, all it takes is one bad experience for a landlord to ban pets altogether. Sometimes, you may be able to negotiate with the landlord, but other times, it’s a hard no, and you’ll need to keep looking for a pet-friendly spot.

Common concerns landlords have with cats

If you’re curious why landlords deny cats in their rentals, here’s a list of common cat concerns:

• Property damage: Scratched floors, walls, curtains, blinds, and furniture from clawing, plus other damage that could exceed the pet deposit. It’s definitely a top concern for landlords.

• Odors and stains: Accidents outside the litter box, cat spraying, and lingering urine smell can be tough to remove, especially if tenants don’t clean regularly.

• Allergies: Some landlords worry about lingering dander triggering allergic reactions in future tenants.

• Neighbor complaints: Loud meowing (especially at night) or wild play can be disruptive — roaming outdoor cats may also bother neighbors.

• Fleas and parasites: Parasite infestations don’t just affect one unit; they can spread, making this a major headache for landlords.

• Unauthorized pets and abandonment: Some tenants sneak in extra cats or, worse, leave them behind when they move. It happens more often than you’d think.

• Move-out cleaning: Pet fur, dander, and odors make turnover between tenants more time-consuming and costly.

• Insurance and liability: Some landlord policies simply don’t cover pet-related damages, making them hesitant to allow cats at all.

Asking the landlord to change their mind 

Whether or not a landlord will change their policy regarding pets depends on a few things, such as:

• Rental competition in the area: Landlords need to keep their properties rented, so if there aren’t many renters in your area, you’ll have a better chance of getting the landlord to change their policy. 

• Number of pets: You’ll have a better chance of getting a landlord to change a no-pet policy if you only have one cat rather than multiple. 

• If you’re willing to pay an additional deposit: Consider offering to pay a larger deposit or even a non-refundable cleaning fee in order to be allowed to keep your cat in the rental. Since most landlords are worried about damage or additional cleaning, this may be enough to get your landlord to change their mind. 

• You’re a historically good tenant: Landlords want someone who will pay their rent on time and take good care of the property. Provide references, letters from past landlords, and anything else that you think will prove you’ll be an excellent tenant. 

The good news is that while some landlords won’t allow cats, there are plenty who will. If you’re having trouble finding a pet-friendly rental, call your local SPCA or humane society and ask if they keep a list of pet-friendly rentals in your area.