While dogs have long been the go-to emotional support animals (ESAs), emotional support cats are quickly gaining popularity. Known for their independent nature and ease of care, cats are an excellent choice for people seeking a low-maintenance companion. However, to legally live and travel with your ESA cat, you must obtain a legitimate ESA letter.
Wondering how to get a legitimate ESA letter? Don't worry, we’ve got you covered. We provide 100% genuine ESA letters, written and signed by licensed therapists. With this letter, you can live and travel with your ESA cat without extra fees.
Keep reading to learn the steps for getting your emotional support cat certification and ESA letter.
What is an Emotional Support Cat?
Can cats be emotional support animals? Absolutely! An emotional support cat is a certified animal that helps individuals with mental and emotional conditions live a more stable, peaceful life. They provide comfort and companionship to those dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more.
Although dogs are typically the first choice for ESAs, both cats and dogs can serve as valuable emotional support animals. Unlike service animals, emotional support cats are not trained to perform specific tasks, but they provide essential comfort simply by being present.
Best Breeds for Emotional Support Cats
There are no specific breed restrictions when it comes to qualifying a cat as an emotional support animal. The best breed depends on the individual’s preference. However, some cat breeds are known to be particularly suited to the role of emotional support animals. Here are some of the top choices:
Siamese Cat
Ragdoll
Persian Cat
Sphynx
Maine Coon
American Shorthair
Bengal Cat
Manx Cat
Russian Blue
While these breeds are excellent choices, many other cat breeds can also be great emotional support companions.
Can Cats Be Service Animals?
No, cats cannot serve as service animals. While cats can be emotional support animals, they do not meet the criteria for service animals as outlined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Service dogs and miniature horses are specially trained to help individuals with physical disabilities, but cats lack the physical strength and training to perform these tasks. As a result, cats are not eligible to be considered service animals.
How to Get an Emotional Support Cat
To get an emotional support cat, an individual must first qualify for an ESA. People with the following conditions may qualify for an emotional support animal:
Anxiety
Depression
PTSD
Social Anxiety Disorder
Bipolar Disorder
Panic Attacks
Phobias
Other mental health disorders
If you qualify, here’s how to proceed:
Consult a licensed therapist – Discuss your condition and how an ESA cat could benefit you.
Complete the pre-screening process – This may involve a mental health evaluation.
Obtain your ESA letter – Once approved, you’ll receive a signed letter from a licensed therapist certifying your need for an emotional support cat.
With your ESA letter in hand, you can bring your ESA cat home and start enjoying the benefits of their companionship.
Do I Need to Register My Cat as an Emotional Support Animal?
No, registration for an ESA is not required by law. If you come across websites offering to "register your cat as an ESA," avoid them. These websites are likely scams. A legitimate ESA letter is all you need to live and travel with your emotional support cat.
Be wary of fake ESA letter providers. Falsifying an ESA letter can result in legal consequences, including fines or even imprisonment.
Benefits of Getting an Emotional Support Cat Certification Letter
A valid ESA letter comes with several legal protections for both you and your cat.
ESA Cat Certification for Housing
Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), landlords cannot discriminate against tenants with emotional support animals. If a landlord is unaware of ESA laws, inform them of their obligations. The FHA ensures that individuals in need of an ESA are allowed to live with their animals without facing additional charges.
ESA Cat Certification for Air Travel
The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) allows you to fly with your emotional support cat in the cabin without any extra fees. Airlines may require advance notice, but they cannot prevent you from traveling with your ESA cat.
Things to Consider When Getting an ESA Cat
Before bringing your ESA cat home, consider these tips:
Choose a friendly breed like Siamese, Ragdoll, or Scottish Fold.
Avoid feral cats, as they may take time to tame and may not be reliable companions.
If possible, adopt a kitten, as they’re easier to bond with and often come housebroken.
Keep your cat indoors to protect it from dangers like traffic or infections.
Ensure your cat is spayed or neutered to avoid behavioral issues.
Get Your ESA Letter Online
Can’t access a therapist in person? No worries! You can easily get your ESA letter online through a simple and legal process. Just fill out a quick questionnaire, and after reviewing your application, you’ll receive a valid ESA letter within 24 hours.
Click this ESA certification link to get your ESA letter today.
With your ESA letter, you’ll have:
Official recognition of your mental health condition from a licensed professional
Certification that an ESA is necessary for your well-being
Full legal rights to live and travel with your emotional support cat
