Therapy and emotional support dogs are not a new concept. However, many may not realize the importance of emotional support cats: friendly, calm, minimal-care animals that can promote overall health and well-being.

Cats have a bad reputation for being aloof, independent, and violent. However, the truth is that cats have personalities ranging from cold to cuddly. Breeds such as Scottish Folds and British shorthairs are known for their loving, touchy personality. My Scottish Fold, Juni, cannot spend a second away from me: he loves to take naps with me, bask in the sun, and long petting sessions.

As graduation approaches, many high school seniors struggle to grasp the idea of leaving behind their beloved pets, as many apartments and college dorms do not allow animals. However, the U.S. Service Animals Official Service & Support Animal Registration recognize the role of ESAs, Emotional Support Animals, in “[reducing] feelings of isolation, [increasing] sense of purpose, [and providing anxiety] relief.” To register a cat as an Emotional Support Animal, the process is simple: a diagnosis for a mental health disorder by a licensed mental health professional is needed, then an emotional support cat must be added as “treatment” for the disorder–as stated by the U.S. Service Animals Official Service & Support Animal Registration.

Personally, I plan on bringing my cat, Juni, to college. Many universities accept Emotional Support Animals into dorms, as long as they are contained in your designated residential area. Although I have gotten pushback for bringing an animal to college, I could not see myself going through the most important transition of my life–from high school to living independently in college–without my emotional support animal. Additionally, cats require little care: I feed mine twice a day, give them water, and clean the litter box once a week. To keep my cats happy and active, I allow them to play in my backyard with supervision.

Cats, despite their reputation, can be great companions for providing unconditional love and support. If you asked anyone I know, they are certain to have heard or seen my cat Juni simply because we are so close. My recommendation for anyone facing stress or mental health problems is to consider emotional support animals, especially cats. My cat is my pet, companion, best friend, and I could not imagine myself without his loving presence.

Gallery • 5 Photos

Lena Lee

Juni posing for a selfie