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How to Register a Cat as an Emotional Support Animal
While qualification and a diagnosis from a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) is required to receive an emotional support animal for a cat or any other animal, there is no official registry for ESAs. Your emotional support animal is considered legally legitimate so long as your ESA letter has been provided by an LMPH.
Yes, cats can be emotional support animals. Any domesticated animal can be an ESA if it helps alleviate symptoms of a mental or emotional disability. See more options in what animals can be ESAs.
There is no legal ESA registry. Under the FHA and HUD guidance, what matters is a legitimate ESA letter from a licensed provider. Registrations, vests, or ID cards do not create rights.
ESAs have housing rights. No pet rent or pet deposits. You are responsible for any damages. Breed or weight restrictions do not apply to ESAs.
ESAs do not have public access rights under the ADA. Airlines treat ESAs as pets. You must follow each airline’s pet policy and fees.
At Pettable we can connect you with a clinician for an ESA letter consultation. Take our short online assessment to get started.
In recent years, emotional support animals (ESAs) have become increasingly popular for people seeking companionship and relief from symptoms like anxiety, depression, and loneliness. While dogs often get the spotlight, cats can make excellent ESAs. They are typically lower maintenance compared to dogs and are known for a calming presence that can be especially grounding during times of stress. Whether you want a quiet cuddle companion or a steady presence during tough moments, a cat can be a wonderful emotional support partner.
A popular myth about ESAs is that you need to register your cat as an ESA. There is no legal “registration” process. All you need is a legitimate ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) to secure housing. Let’s take a closer look at how to get an emotional support cat letter.
How to Register a Cat as an Emotional Support Cat
To register your cat as an emotional support animal, follow these steps:
Obtain an ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional.
Check your local regulations for specific requirements.
Notify your housing provider about your ESA.
Learn about air travel rules if you plan to fly with your cat.
Remember, genuine need is key for a successful registration.
How to Get an Emotional Support Cat Letter
To get a legitimate ESA letter for your cat, follow these steps:
Check eligibility. You experience symptoms that substantially limit one or more major life activities. Common conditions include anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, autism, panic disorder, phobias, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and grief.
Complete Pettable’s short assessment. It takes about 2 to 3 minutes and helps us understand your needs and match you with a licensed clinician.
Have a live telehealth consultation with an LMHP licensed in your state. This evaluation determines if an ESA is appropriate for your care.
If appropriate, receive your ESA letter. In most cases, letters are available within 24 to 48 hours of your consultation. Some states have waiting-period laws that may affect timing.
Provide your letter to your housing provider with a written reasonable accommodation request under the FHA.
What an ESA letter must include:
Clinician’s license type and number
State of license and clinician contact information
Date of issue and clinician signature
A statement that you have a disability and that an ESA is part of your treatment or supports your disability-related needs
Can Cats Be Emotional Support Animals?
Feline friends, rejoice. Cats are among the many types of animals that can be ESAs. Unlike service animals, which are usually dogs, any domesticated animal can become an emotional support companion if they help alleviate your symptoms. In addition to dogs and cats, the following animals and more could qualify for ESA status:
Rabbits
Hamsters
Guinea Pigs
Birds
Hedgehogs
Domesticated Rats and Mice
Minipigs
Ferrets
Chickens
Snakes
Even the rarest of domesticated pets could qualify as your ESA as long as they do not pose a threat to others and are properly handled by their humans.
How Do You Qualify for an Emotional Support Cat?
ESAs provide companionship and emotional support to people with anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions. Unlike service animals trained to perform specific tasks for their owners, ESAs do not require any special training. To qualify for an emotional support cat for housing, you need documentation from a licensed healthcare professional indicating that you have a disability and that an ESA helps with your symptoms.
You do not need to disclose your specific diagnosis to your landlord. The letter simply verifies your disability and the need for an ESA. Common qualifying conditions include:
A primary care physician can sometimes provide documentation, but many housing providers prefer documentation from a mental health professional. Pettable connects you with LMHPs to keep your documentation clear and compliant.
Housing Rights for Emotional Support Cats (FHA)
The Fair Housing Act (FHA) and HUD’s FHEO-2020-01 guidance require housing providers to make reasonable accommodations for assistance animals, including ESAs, for people with disabilities.
What housing providers can do:
Request reasonable documentation if the disability or need is not obvious
Ask for information that verifies you have a disability and that an ESA supports your disability-related needs
Charge for actual damages caused by the animal
What housing providers cannot do:
Ask for medical records or details about your diagnosis
Charge pet rent, pet deposits, or pet fees for ESAs
Apply breed, size, or weight restrictions to ESAs
Deny a reasonable accommodation unless it would cause an undue burden or the animal poses a direct threat that cannot be reduced with reasonable steps
Where ESAs are allowed under the FHA:
Rental housing including apartments and homes
HOAs and condominiums
Most college dorms and university housing (school-specific rules may apply)
Process and timeline:
Submit a written reasonable accommodation request with your ESA letter. A “reasonable timeframe” to respond is typically 10 to 14 days.
If denied, request the reason in writing, address any concerns, and consider filing a complaint with your local fair housing agency if needed.
Sample email script for a reasonable accommodation request
Hello [Landlord/Property Manager],
I am requesting a reasonable accommodation under the Fair Housing Act to keep my emotional support cat in my residence at [address/unit]. I have included my ESA letter from a licensed provider verifying that I have a disability and that an ESA helps with my disability-related needs. Please let me know if you need anything else that is permitted under HUD guidance. I appreciate your prompt response within a reasonable timeframe.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
Move-in checklist for ESA cats:
Copy of your current ESA letter
Vaccination and vet records
Litter and odor control plan
Scratching mitigation plan (scratching posts, nail trims)
Emergency contact for pet care
Microchip and ID tag
Where Are Emotional Support Cats Allowed to Go?
Unlike service animals, ESAs do not have public access rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The FHA protects them in housing situations. ESAs can live with their owners in housing, but they do not have a legal right to enter public places such as stores, restaurants, hospitals, or parks that do not otherwise allow pets. Businesses may choose to allow pets at their discretion.
Your emotional support cat cannot fly for free as a service animal. The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) no longer recognizes ESAs as service animals. Due to the U.S. Department of Transportation policy change in 2021, only trained service animals are protected for in-cabin air travel. Many airlines allow cats to travel as pets for a fee if they meet carrier size limits and other rules. You will have to look into pet-friendly airlines.
Emotional Support Cat vs Service Animal vs Therapy Cat
ESAs, service animals, and therapy cats serve different roles with different legal rights. ESAs provide comfort to people with disabilities and have housing rights under the FHA. Service animals are specially trained to perform tasks and have public access rights under the ADA, but only dogs and miniature horses qualify as service animals. Therapy cats visit facilities with their handlers to provide comfort and are admitted only where they volunteer.
Feature
ESA Cats
Service Animals (dogs or miniature horses)
Therapy Cats
Legal Housing Access (FHA)
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
❌ Not guaranteed
Public Access Rights (ADA)
❌ No
✅ Yes
❌ No
Air Travel Protections (DOT)
❌ Treated as pets
✅ Protected
❌ Treated as pets
Special Training Required
❌ No
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
Pet Fees in Housing
❌ No pet rent or deposits
❌ No pet rent or deposits
✅ May apply
Legal Authority
FHA, HUD FHEO-2020-01
ADA
Facility permission
Note: Cats cannot be service animals under the ADA.
Benefits of Emotional Support Cats
Emotional support cats can be a steady source of comfort and routine. While results vary, research suggests meaningful benefits for many people:
Reduced stress and physiological arousal. Interacting with companion animals is associated with lower stress markers and calmer mood states.
Lower anxiety and depression symptoms. ESAs can provide day-to-day emotional grounding and social support that improves coping.
Reduced loneliness and improved mood. Regular companionship helps many people feel less isolated.
Grounding during panic or flashbacks. Petting a calm cat can serve as a soothing sensory anchor.
Better sleep for some individuals. For certain people, a pet in the bedroom can be reassuring and improve perceived sleep quality.
More routine and purpose. Feeding, play, and care tasks encourage structure that supports mental health.
Evidence examples: counseling literature on ESA benefits, a study linking pet interaction with reduced stress responses, and sleep research in people who share bedrooms with pets.
What Do Emotional Support Cats Do?
Similar to how we take care of our cats, by keeping them up to date on all vaccinations, cats can take care of us too. Emotional support cats provide companionship and emotional comfort to their owners and often help reduce stress and anxious thoughts. Many ESA cats enjoy calm cuddling and gentle play, which can be grounding. Some owners report added benefits like feeling calmer, more supported, and more capable during difficult periods. If you consider getting an emotional support cat, be sure to do your research to find a breed or individual cat that fits your lifestyle and personality.
Choosing and Preparing a Good Emotional Support Cat
Every cat is unique, and temperament matters more than breed. Look for a calm, sociable, affectionate cat that tolerates handling and new environments. Breeds sometimes noted as affectionate include Ragdoll, Maine Coon, American Shorthair, Russian Blue, and Manx, but any individual cat with the right temperament can be a great ESA.
Preparation tips for housing:
Litter training and consistent cleanup
Scratching posts and regular nail trims
Carrier acclimation for vet visits
Quiet hours and enrichment to limit nuisance behaviors
Odor control plan and routine grooming
Microchipping, vaccinations, and spay or neuter
Travel: Flying With Your Cat (As a Pet)
Under the DOT’s 2020 Final Rule effective 2021, ESAs are treated as pets for air travel. There is no legal right to free in-cabin travel for ESAs. Each airline sets its own pet policy.
Quick checklist:
Reserve early and confirm your cat can fly in cabin
Check carrier size and soft-sided dimensions
Review pet fees and bring proof of payment
Carry recent vet records and vaccination proof
Check breed restrictions and weather limits
Avoid sedatives unless your vet advises otherwise
Practice carrier acclimation at home before travel
Do You Need to Register or Certify Your ESA Cat?
Despite what some companies may try to convince you, you do not have to register your ESA. There is no formal process for certifying or registering an emotional support animal, and there are no specific requirements for what types of animals can qualify.
A common misconception about ESAs is that there is a national ESA registry. You do not need to register or certify your cat as an ESA. Any website claiming to add your cat to the national ESA registry is likely a scam. According to the FHA, the only legal proof you need is an ESA letter written by an LMHP.
Scam Red Flags to Avoid
Promises of “instant approval” with no live evaluation
Offers to “register” your ESA in a national database
Claims that a vest, ID card, or certificate creates legal rights
Letters not written by a licensed provider in your state
No clinician contact information or license number on the letter
What is an ESA Letter?
An ESA letter is essentially an ESA certification from a licensed mental health professional that you have a qualifying mental or emotional health disorder that is benefitted by the presence of your emotional support cat. With an ESA letter, you are protected by the FHA and should have no problem keeping the animal in your rental property, even if it has a standard “no pet” policy. The letter functions like a prescription for an assistance animal in housing.
How to Get an ESA Letter for Your Cat
If you live with anxiety, depression, or another mental health condition, you may qualify for an ESA. Pettable guides you through a compliant process with licensed clinicians and a satisfaction guarantee.
Complete Our Assessment
First, you'll complete our quick ESA assessment so we can evaluate your situation and emotional pet support needs. Expect a thorough process that respects your time.
Consult With a Therapist
You will complete privacy and consent forms authorizing our clinicians to work with you. We will match you with a licensed mental health professional in your state and send a link to book a live telehealth consultation. During the call, you will complete a mental health evaluation to determine eligibility for an ESA.
Get an Emotional Support Cat Letter
Once our licensed mental health professional determines that an emotional support animal is appropriate for your care, they will write a legally recognized ESA letter for housing. You will be given the option to get an ESA letter within 24 hours from the time of your consultation, in most cases. Some state laws require a longer provider relationship before issuing a letter.
State-Specific Laws Regarding ESA Letters
Some states have additional laws regarding the ESA letter process. The following states require a 30-day prior client-provider relationship before the LMHP can issue the ESA letter. These include:
Pettable keeps your case compliant with current state laws and will display any waiting-period timelines before purchase.
Choose Your Emotional Support Cat
Once you have your letter, you can start looking for the perfect furry friend. Select a cat that is well-suited to living closely with people and has a steady, affectionate temperament. After bringing your pet home, share your documentation with your landlord and confirm any building rules such as quiet hours or waste disposal. You can also inform your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance of your pet ownership.
Because your satisfaction is crucial, Pettable offers a 100% money-back guarantee if your ESA letter is rejected for housing. If the ESA letter does not work, you can contact us for a full refund.
What Makes a Good Emotional Support Cat?
Every cat is unique and has their very own personality, but some breeds are known to be affectionate and friendly. When choosing a cat to be your ESA, look for a friendly, sociable, calm, and affectionate cat. Cat breeds that would excel as an ESA include the following:
Ragdoll
Maine Coon
American Shorthair
Russian Blue
Manx
Ultimately, choose a cat that fits your lifestyle and makes you feel supported. Temperament is more important than breed.
Cost and Renewal: What To Expect
ESA letter. Pricing varies by service level. See current options when you take the assessment.
Housing costs. No pet rent or pet deposits for ESAs under the FHA. You are responsible for actual damages.
Cat ownership basics. Adoption fee, food, litter, routine vet care, vaccinations, flea prevention, and unexpected medical needs.
Renewal best practice: HUD does not set a fixed renewal date, but many landlords prefer a recent letter. Renewing annually helps minimize friction when moving or renewing a lease.
Emotional Support Cat vs Service Animal vs Therapy Cat
ESAs, service animals, and therapy cats are often confused and used interchangeably. However, they represent three very different types of assistance animals. An emotional support cat provides relief and comfort to their owners with mental health disabilities. ESAs are allowed to live in housing situations even when pet restrictions are in place, but they are not given any public access rights.
Service animals are specially trained to perform tasks for their owners and are given public access rights. They can accompany their owners wherever they go. The ADA only recognizes dogs and miniature horses as service animals, so cats are currently unable to be service animals.
A therapy cat is a trained cat that travels with their owner to hospitals, schools, senior living facilities, and other places in the community where they bring comfort to the people there. Therapy cats are only given access to the location where they will be volunteering.
Frequently Asked Questions About Emotional Support Cats
Do cats qualify as emotional support animals?
Yes, cats absolutely qualify as emotional support animals. Cats are loving and affectionate creatures that can provide solace and comfort in times of distress. They have been proven to reduce stress and blood pressure levels for their owners, as well as lower depression, feelings of loneliness, and anxiety. Any cat that provides emotional support and helps alleviate symptoms of a mental health condition can be an ESA with proper documentation from a licensed mental health professional.
How do I make my cat an emotional support animal?
If your cat already provides you with emotional support and helps alleviate symptoms of a mental health condition, you already have an emotional support cat! To make it official, you need to obtain an ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional (LMHP). The process involves: 1) Completing an assessment about your mental health needs, 2) Having a consultation with an LMHP who will evaluate your condition, and 3) Receiving an official ESA letter if you qualify. There is no official "registration" or "certification" process - only the ESA letter is legally recognized.
What's the difference between an emotional support cat, service animal, and therapy cat?
These three categories serve different purposes and have different legal rights. Emotional support cats provide comfort to their owners with mental health disabilities and have housing rights but no public access rights. Service animals are specially trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities and have full public access rights - however, only dogs and miniature horses can be service animals under the ADA. Therapy cats are trained animals that visit facilities like hospitals and schools to provide comfort to multiple people but have no special housing or public access rights.
Can a landlord refuse an emotional support cat?
No, landlords cannot refuse an emotional support cat if you have a valid ESA letter. Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords must make reasonable accommodations for your ESA, even in "no pets" housing. They also cannot charge pet fees, deposits, or impose breed or age restrictions. The only exceptions are if the animal poses a direct threat to others' safety or would cause substantial property damage that cannot be reduced or eliminated by a reasonable accommodation.
What makes a good emotional support cat?
While any cat can be an ESA if they provide emotional support, ideal emotional support cats typically have friendly, sociable, calm, and affectionate temperaments. Breeds known for these qualities include Ragdolls, Maine Coons, American Shorthairs, Russian Blues, and Manx cats. For people with depression, low-maintenance breeds like the Russian Blue work well. Ultimately, the best ESA cat is one that fits your personality and lifestyle while providing the emotional support you need.
How much does an emotional support cat cost?
The cost of an emotional support cat varies widely depending on where you get them. Adoption from shelters typically costs $50-$200, while purchasing from breeders can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the breed. Remember to factor in ongoing costs like food, litter, veterinary care, and the ESA letter consultation fee (typically $100-$200). The cat itself doesn't need any special training or certification beyond the ESA letter.
Can I fly with my emotional support cat?
Generally, no. As of 2021, airlines are no longer required by federal law to accommodate emotional support animals in aircraft cabins. Most major airlines now treat ESAs as regular pets, requiring them to travel in carriers under the seat (if small enough) or in cargo, with associated pet fees. Some airlines like JetBlue may make voluntary exceptions on a case-by-case basis. Always check with your specific airline for their current ESA policies before booking.
Can I have more than one emotional support cat?
Yes, you can have multiple emotional support cats if a licensed mental health professional determines that multiple animals are necessary for your emotional support. Your ESA letter should specify the number of animals needed. Keep in mind that while there's no federal limit, your housing situation must still be able to reasonably accommodate multiple animals, and local laws regarding the number of pets may still apply.
How often do I need to renew my ESA letter?
ESA letters typically need to be renewed annually. Most landlords and housing providers require a letter dated within the past 12 months. Some landlords may request a more recent letter depending on their lease terms. It's important to maintain a current ESA letter to ensure your cat's status remains valid for housing accommodations.
Are there hypoallergenic emotional support cat breeds?
While no cat is completely allergen-free, certain breeds produce less of the Fel d 1 protein that causes allergic reactions. Hypoallergenic breeds that make good ESAs include Russian Blues, Burmese, Cornish Rex, Sphynx, Siamese, and Bengals. These cats tend to shed less or produce fewer allergens, making them suitable options for people with mild cat allergies who still want the emotional support benefits of a feline companion.
Do emotional support cats need special training?
No, emotional support cats do not require any special training to qualify as ESAs. Unlike service animals that must be trained to perform specific tasks, ESAs simply need to provide comfort and emotional support through their presence and companionship. You just need to provide a loving home and proper care for your cat to fulfill their role as an emotional support animal.
Is there a national registry for emotional support cats?
No, there is no official national registry for emotional support animals. Any website claiming to "register" or "certify" your ESA is not legally recognized. The only legitimate documentation for an ESA is a letter written by a licensed mental health professional in your state. Be wary of online services that offer instant registration or certification without a proper mental health evaluation.
Can cats sense anxiety and depression?
Cats are very observant and can pick up on changes in their owner's emotional state. They respond to changes in behavior, voice tone, and body language. While cats don't understand emotions the same way humans do, they can sense when something is wrong and often provide comfort by staying close, purring, or engaging in affectionate behavior during times of emotional distress.
Where can I get an emotional support cat?
You can obtain an emotional support cat from various sources including animal shelters, rescue organizations, reputable breeders, or online adoption platforms. Shelters and rescues are often the most affordable option and give you the opportunity to provide a home to a cat in need. You can also check online directories and breed-specific rescue groups to find the right cat for your emotional support needs.
What documentation do I need for an emotional support cat?
The only documentation you need is a valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional. This letter must be on the clinician's letterhead and include their license number, contact information, and a statement confirming your need for an emotional support animal. Your cat does not need to wear any special tags, vests, or identification - the ESA letter is sufficient legal documentation.
Susana is an avid animal lover and has been around animals her entire life, and has volunteered at several different animal shelters in Southern California. She has a loving family at home that consists of her husband, son, two dogs, and one cat. She enjoys trying new Italian recipes, playing piano, making pottery, and outdoor hiking with her family and dogs in her spare time.
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