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With the newfound independence and freedom a college student discovers, a desire to have a pet tag along for the adventure often follows. For these first-time pet owners, a furry friend can help them feel a stronger connection to their new home-away-from-home in the new chapter of their lives.

Dr. Erin Ray, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, offers recommendations for college students when adopting and caring for a pet for the first time.

When making the important decision to become the caretaker to a pet, it is crucial to have the correct expectations in place for whichever animal you are considering giving a forever home.

The day-to-day care and activities vary greatly depending on the type of pet you commit to; these key differences also may impact the best species for a college student to adopt:

Cats: are typically, yet not always, more independent. They often require multiple litter boxes and scratching posts. First-time owners living in apartments would be served well by adopting a cat as they need less space to play and happily live.

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