How My Cats Helped Me Navigate College and Beyond

Why Adopting a Pet in College Was the Best Decision for Me

College is a time of growth, independence, and new challenges. While balancing academics, work, and a social life, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. For me, adopting my cat was one of the best decisions I made during my college years—it provided me with companionship, emotional support, and a sense of responsibility that helped shape my daily routine and overall well-being.

Blaze

Finding Blaze and Bringing Dunkin Home

Before adopting my first cat, Blaze, I had always loved animals but wasn’t sure if I could handle the responsibility of a pet while being a full-time student. However, after learning about pet adoption and realizing I had the time and resources to care for a cat, I decided to take the leap. From the moment I brought Blaze home, he became an important part of my life, offering me comfort and companionship through stressful times.

Recently, I made the decision to bring my childhood cat, Dunkin, back home with me. Dunkin had been a part of my life for years, but bringing him into my college home was a new experience. Having both Blaze and Dunkin with me has made my space feel even more like home. Watching them bond and seeing Dunkin settle into his new environment has been incredibly rewarding.

The Benefits of Having Pets in College

Having pets in college came with so many unexpected benefits. Blaze and Dunkin became sources of emotional support, helping me manage stress, anxiety, and loneliness. After long days of studying and working, coming home to two loving pets who are always happy to see me makes a world of difference.

Beyond emotional support, my cats also bring structure to my daily routine. Feeding them, cleaning up after them, and making sure they get attention and playtime add responsibility to my schedule—but in the best way possible. It helps me manage my time more effectively and ensures I take breaks from work and school.

Challenges and Considerations

While adopting and caring for pets in college was an amazing decision for me, it did come with responsibilities. Ensuring I had a stable living situation, budgeting for food and vet visits, and making time for their care were all things I had to consider. However, with careful planning and commitment, I was able to balance my responsibilities while giving Blaze and Dunkin a happy and healthy home.

Dunkin

A Lifelong Bond

Looking back, I can’t imagine my college experience without Blaze and Dunkin. They have been with me through late-night study sessions, early morning alarms, and everything in between. Now, as I prepare to graduate and step into the next phase of my life, having them by my side makes the transition feel a little less daunting. Whether it’s moving to a new city, starting a new job, or adjusting to post-grad life, I know they will continue to bring comfort, stability, and joy. Adopting and caring for pets in college isn’t for everyone, but for me, it was a decision that brought so much joy, love, and stability into my life.

For any student considering pet adoption or bringing a pet into their college home, my advice is to be realistic about the commitment but also to recognize the incredible benefits pets can bring. Blaze and Dunkin have been more than just pets—they’ve been my companions through one of the most transformative periods of my life, and I wouldn’t trade that for anything.