Maybe you are afraid to ask your parents for permission to keep a cat. You're worried they'll get mad or just say "No." However, with a little research, you can get them to say “Yes”. Learn more about cats so you know how to care for them and ask for permission in a more calm and friendly way. Do not immediately despair if your request is rejected. Your parents may need time to consider your wishes. If you accept your parents' answers with grace, they may change their minds in the future.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Doing Research
Step 1. Write down the reasons why your parents refused your request
Think about why the two of you won't let you have a cat. They may weigh the costs and responsibilities of owning a pet cat. If you find a solution to this problem, your parents can let you have a cat.
- Your parents may also be afraid that the cat will scratch the furniture or dirty the house.
- Your parents will also consider the cost. New pets need new toys, beds, and various items.
- Your parents may be so busy that they worry that their work will add up if they have a cat. Pets need a lot of time and attention.
- One or both of your parents may be allergic to cats. However, don't get discouraged right away because there are some cats that are not allergic (hypoallergenic)!
Step 2. Write down ways to solve the problem
Be proactive and think of solutions to problems that may occur. That way, if your parents raise a problem, you can immediately provide a solution. Write the solution right beside or below the related problem. As an example:
- If your parents don't want the cat to ruin the furniture, say you're going to put a claw cap on. These caps attach to the cat's nails so they don't scratch the furniture. Never break a cat's nails.
- If your parents are worried about money, say you're going to set aside your pocket money or find a job to pay for cat supplies.
- If the problem is time, promise that you will take care of your pet cat yourself. Remember that cats are independent creatures who don't need as much attention as dogs.
- If your parents are allergic to cats, tell them you will choose a hypoallergenic cat, such as Balinese, Bengal, Burmese, Cornish Rex, Siamese, Siberian or Sphynx.
Step 3. Do some research on basic cat care
The more you know, the more impressed your parents will be. Cats' basic needs include food, attention, and care. If you seem capable of raising a cat, chances are your parents will give in.
- Tell your parents that you will provide clean bedding and keep a litter box for the cat in your bedroom or garage.
- Say that you are going to give your cat healthy food, and name some brands you came across while doing your research.
- Vet visits can be expensive. Say you'll help pay for the vet's fees and find a job to earn money.
Step 4. Find a surefire way to spend time with your pet
Your parents want to make sure you don't neglect the cat. Tell them exactly when you will care for and spend time with your pet.
- You can promise that you will play with the cat every day for an hour after school or after finishing your homework.
- Also, consider cat grooming. Promise that you'll get up early to feed and change the cat's litter box.
Step 5. Practice what you will say before asking permission
Practicing speech will always help. Try writing down what you want to say and practice in front of a mirror. You don't have to think through every word in detail, and just write down the rough outline.
Don't be afraid to take your notes with you when you ask for permission. Instead, your parents will see how much effort you put into being able to raise a cat
Part 2 of 3: Asking Parents' Permission
Step 1. Talk to your parents when they are relaxing
Choose a time when your parents aren't busy or distracted, and don't need to go anywhere. For example, try talking to them on a Saturday night while relaxing in their bedroom or living room.
- Pay attention to the timings. For example, if you know your parents are spending a lot of money, now is not the time to raise a cat.
- You also choose the time of day or a big event, such as your birthday or graduation.
Step 2. Bring this topic to the fore
When you're ready to talk, you have to say it directly. Instead of just giving a hint, make a request to pet the cat in a calm and mature manner. If you're just trying to stir up the topic, your parents could get frustrated and lose their temper.
- For example, say, "Dad, Mom, I have something to tell you. I've been thinking about it for a long time, and I really want to have a pet cat."
- Your parents may immediately reject the request. If so, say, “I've done a lot of research. If I may, I'd like to explain it first."
Step 3. Show respect when asking
A little compliment can make a big difference. It's best not to appear entitled or spoiled and to show respect when asking for permission. This shows you are grateful for everything your parents do and don't neglect them.
- For example, say “I know you've worked hard and I really appreciate it. If I'm allowed to keep a cat, I promise I'll take care of it myself so that your work doesn't add up.”
- However, don't lick your parents too much, as this will appear insincere.
Step 4. Bring up the idea that you thought of earlier
Recall the list of problems and solutions you considered earlier. Before your parents express their objections, show that you've thought about it beforehand. Tell how the cat will become the perfect new family member. Say:
- "I know we have a lot of expensive furniture, but I came across a product called Soft Paws. It's a plastic cover that attaches to a cat's nails. My friend's cat wears it, and none of the furniture is damaged."
- "I understand that cats will need food, toys, and other supplies. I've been thinking about how to get the money to buy everything. I'm even looking for a job!"
- "Cats are not the same as dogs because they can be left alone all day. I will take care of the cat every day by feeding and playing with it. I will also clean the litter box."
- "I know you're allergic to cats, but there are also cats that don't cause allergies, such as the Siberian breed. Maybe we can try looking for this breed in the store and see how it reacts?"
Step 5. Let your parents talk
When you've said everything that needs to be said, give your parents a chance to respond. Try to really understand their point of view and don't complain or interrupt because they can get angry. Just shut up and listen, and show that you're an adult.
- Your parents may disagree at first, and that's okay. Give them time to think again, especially if they say "Let's think about it first."
- Urging your parents to answer right away will only increase the chances of them refusing your request. Be patient. Give it a few days before requesting a return.
Part 3 of 3: Dealing with Rejection
Step 1. Try not to argue or complain
Parents can say “no” or show reluctance. Even if you want to argue, you shouldn't. Arguments will only make things worse and make your parents angry. If they are angry, the more closed your chances of being able to keep a cat.
Don't be discouraged if your parents refuse. Try to show how responsible you are in the next few weeks. They might change their mind
Step 2. Offer to do something in return
Parents may feel that you have put in enough effort to get a cat license. If they seem reluctant, try offering something in exchange. Cats can be a reward for behavior or achievement of something.
- For example, say something like, “How about I study hard this semester and raise my math score? Instead, let me pet a cat.”
- Better to choose something that is difficult to achieve. For example, if you are used to getting 100 marks in Indonesian lessons, choose another subject.
Step 3. Offer to pay part of the fee
Money is a major issue in acquiring a new pet. If you offer to pay, your parents can agree to keep the cat. You can offer to set aside pocket money or get a part-time job.
- For example, say “I'm going to save all the money from work after school. That way, I can pay for new toys and sandboxes.”
- If you're applying for a job, impress your parents by showing them the cover letter to send. Even if you don't get the job, your parents will appreciate your hard work.
Step 4. Prepare to give in now
Even if you ask calmly and maturely, your parents may still refuse to give you permission. If so, the best course of action at this point is simply to accept this answer. If your parents see that you accept their answers calmly, there's a good chance that both of them will change their minds in the future.
- End the conversation on a positive note. Say, “I appreciate Mom and Dad's willingness to listen. Thank you for your time."
- Accepting rejection is a sign of maturity and can help you ask for something later on. If you keep pushing and whining, both of them will say "no".
Tips
- Try buying a scratching post for cats instead of nail caps. These poles allow the cat to carry out its normal, healthy behavior instead of stopping it. This pole also trains the cat not to scratch.
- Do a lot of research to show your dedication and prove that your request is not spontaneous.
- Breaking a cat's nails can cause pain, panic, and walking discomfort. Avoid if possible.
- Talk about having a cat when both parents are in a good mood. Choose the right moment to ask to be allowed to pet a cat, such as after getting a good report card, or before a birthday or Christmas.
- Learn ways to deal with things that can worry parents, such as smells, dirt, etc.
- Save the information folder and give it to parents for them to read. Hopefully they will give permission.
- If your parents feel you are not responsible enough, show that you can. Do the task before being asked. Clean the house, treat your siblings well, act mature, and do all your chores, both the usual and the rest.
- If your parents don't think you're capable of keeping a cat, ask them if you can keep an eye on a friend's cat to show your skills.
- To show that you are responsible enough, volunteer to care for the cat at the shelter. That way, parents can see your dedication.
- If you're afraid to face your parents face-to-face, try writing a note, letter, or text message. That way, you can arrange the words as well as possible.
- If you have other pets, spend more time with them and show your parents that you are ready to have another pet.
- Write a long letter to your parents about the things you have researched.
