Got a potential tenant who owns a cat. I'm concerned about the carpeted bedroom. Any advice?

Question

I'm a landlord and I've got a real strong potential tenant. They've got a cat. I've heard lots of horror stories about cats destroying carpet, very strong urine smell, etc. Is there anything I can put on the carpet that will discourage a cat from using it as a toilet?

Answer 1

Hi there...I have rented to several tenants who have cats. I haven't been able to find any type of product available to deter cats from using the carpet as a giant scratch pad or toilet...at least not anything non-toxic. Therefore, I request for a partially refundable pet deposit that is 50% of a month's rent where 40% will be refunded if the carpet is still in the same condition when the tenant moves out aside from the usual wear-n-tear from time. Most responsible tenants will not baulk with this deposit if they know their pets are well trained. Carpeting and padding are costly to replace so this is why I ask for 1/2 of the rent if it's a substantial amount. Some landlord's will request for a full month's rent in a deposit to be partially refunded as well.

Also consider requesting from the propective renter for previous rental history so you can contact each of the landlord's to ask if they've had any need to replace the carpet due to pet damage. Keep in mind the current landlord may not say anything if they want to rid the tenant as quickly as possible to pawn the problem elsewhere.

Answer 2

I'm not sure of any products that act as a deterrent for a cat to leave a place alone and not urinate there, not for carpets anyway. Hopefully this cat is litter trained.

My cat is litter trained and doesn't spray, however he had a urinary tract infection and was avoiding the litter box. The responsible tenant (it sounds as if you think this person is or you wouldn't be strongly considering them) will make sure the smell goes away - or tries their damndest to - their are many products that help with that. Perhaps you could try one of those. I mean who wants to live with that smell? I'm sure your possible tenant wouldn't.

If you find no products that will help you can always charge a pet deposit (depending on your state) - usually non refundable, although it can be. I'd charge just enough to make sure the carpet can be cleaned in the room you're concerned about, although that's up to you.

Good luck. If I hear of anything I'll change my post.

Answer 3

We have four rental homes, and we allow pets in all four. We've not had any problem with cats, as most will use a litterbox very well. We always have a clause in our contract that we can inspect the inside of the home at regular intervals, with 24 hours' notice, so they tenants always know we may stop by soon and inspect. With cat owners, litter boxes is one thing we take note of. You may want to charge a refundable (or nonrefundable) deposit just in case, and $100 should be plenty for professional carpet cleaning if necessary.

Answer 4

a litter box trained cat won't pee on carpet. Problems occur most common with two or more cats marking territory. Tell the tenant they will be responsbile for any and all damage....clawing the carpet is much more likely ....and charge a damage deposit...but be prepared to fix it when they move out. Fluffy may seem harmless in the eye of the owner....because a loved pet can really do no harm. Buyer beware.

Answer 5

If the tenant is a responsible pet owner,they would not allow the cat to urinate on the carpet.Ask them if the cat is toilet trained.If it is,they will either have a kitty litter box for it or it will know to go outside.
I hope that you can see past the cat.I used to have a really hard time getting a place to rent,because I had animals.More often than not the animals are cleaner than the humans.Good luck,which ever way you go.

Answer 6

Get a pet deposit. A good owner will willingly pay a pet deposit to be able to bring their cat with them. Chances are, if the potential tenant seems like a responsible person and someone who you want to rent to, they will take care of their animal. Most cats don't spray all over and are very meticulous about using a litter box, and if the nails are clipped regularly, they won't damage the carpet.

Answer 7

you should make sure and get a "pet deposit" from them, and if the cat has not messed up the carpeting or anything else by the time they move out, you will give them back the deposit, and if the cat has been destructive...you will have that money to help fix the damage. I have 2 cats in an apt. and we paid a $500.00 deposit. Think this is pretty standard. If they are responsible owners they should not have a problem with this.

Answer 8

Write up a rental agreement that spells out what you expect from your tenant in regard to pets. If there is a place in the apartment/house that is not carpeted, I'm guessing that's where they'll place the litterbox. Unless the cat is totally out of control, and if the tenants are responsible owners, it really shouldn't be a problem.

Honestly, they will probably be grateful that they have found a place that will accept pets, so hopefully will take extra care in regard to the litterbox.

Give them a chance, but make it clear what you expect from them.

Answer 9

To be honest if it is an adult cat then it will use the litter box, given that the owners keep it clean.....if they are like you said that strong of a potential tenant, then I would for sure give them a chance. I think you will be fine. And your house and carpet will be too....good luck and hope for the best.

Answer 10

There is a great product , Urine b gone or Zero Order. It not only kills the smell , it has enzymes that 'eat' the urine . As if it never happened. Just ask your tenant to use the product before moving