Renting with a cat in the UK isn’t always straightforward. While landlords tend to be more open to cats than dogs, it can still be a challenge to find a rental that welcomes your feline friend. Every day, I hear from people struggling to secure a pet-friendly property, and with landlords becoming more cautious, the process isn’t getting any easier.
Saying that, there are buildings I have come across, especially in London, that are only cat-friendly.
With the right approach, you can find the perfect home for both you and your cat. Here are my top tips:
Start Your Search Early
Pet-friendly rentals are in high demand, and competition is fierce. If you need to move, start your search as early as possible so you’re not left scrambling for options at the last minute.
If you are new to the areas, allow extra time. Rule of thumb is that tenants give 2 months notice and then the properties are immediately marketed. I would allow at least 3 months preparation time to work out locations to suit your budget etc.
Paperwork Preparation
Have your paperwork in order so you can move quickly on a property:
Look Beyond Standard Listings
Most mainstream rental listings won’t highlight pet-friendly properties, so you have to dig a little deeper. Try:
Prepare a Strong Pet CV
Yes, a Pet CV can make a real difference. It helps reassure landlords that your cat won’t cause damage or disturb neighbours. Include:
Landlords who are unsure about pets may be swayed by the extra effort!
Offer Extra Security
While landlords can’t charge pet deposits under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, you can still offer to take out pet damage insurance to cover any potential issues. This can be a great way to ease a landlord’s concerns.
Highlight the Benefits of Cats
Some landlords worry about pets damaging their property, but cats often make ideal tenants. If the landlord is on the fence, remind them that:
Be Flexible on Location and Features
Not all areas are equally pet-friendly, so expanding your search beyond the most in-demand postcodes may help. Also, while you might prefer a furnished property, some landlords are more open to pets in unfurnished homes, as there’s less risk to their furniture.
Get Everything in Writing
If a landlord agrees to let you have a cat, make sure a pets clause is included in your tenancy agreement . This avoids issues later if management or property ownership changes.
Consider the Renters Rights Bill
With the new Renters Rights Bill coming into law soon, landlords won’t be able to unreasonably refuse pets. While this is a step forward, buildings with a no-pets clause can still say no, and some landlords may find workarounds to avoid renting to pet owners. Being proactive and prepared is still key.
Final Thoughts
Renting with a cat in the UK can be tricky, but it’s not impossible. By starting early, presenting yourself as a responsible tenant, and being flexible, you’ll have a much better chance of securing a pet-friendly home.
At the end of the day, cats make great tenants. It’s just about convincing landlords to see it that way!
If you have any questions about the UK rental market, please feel free to join The Ask A UK Pets and Property Professional Facebook Group or book a no obligation call with me.
I hope this information is helpful. If you’re relocating to the UK with your pets, feel free to join our informative Facebook group, “Relocating to the UK with your Pets”, for more guidance and support.
Russell Hunt is the founder of Petslets.com , where he serves as a pet-friendly UK property specialist. He was also a property agent for many years and still advises clients on their purchases. People forget that some buildings say no to pets, even if you own the property.
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