Instructions
Research how to care for a kitten through websites such as the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (aspca.org) and the Humane Society of the United States (humanesociety.org). The ASPCA provides pet care advice just for kids on its website. Understand that a kitten needs food, water and a litter box that needs cleaning daily. It also requires veterinary care and vaccinations to stay healthy.
Prepare a report or presentation for your mom using your research to demonstrate that you understand what kind of care, time and work are involved with owning a kitten. Let your mother know that you have put a lot of time and thought into the desire to adopt a kitten so she does not think of it as a passing fancy. List in the presentation what responsibilities you plan to take on in the kitten's care, such as scooping its litter box or feeding it.
Volunteer with your local animal shelter to show your mother that you are dedicated to learning more about how to care for kittens and cats, and to helping animals in need. Petfinder (petfinder.com) offers a search feature to find local shelters and rescue groups in your area that you can contact to volunteer with cats, kittens and other animals. This will also give you an idea of what is involved in the day-to-day care of a pet.
Obtain a summer or part-time job to help pay for the expenses involved in the care of a kitten. Volunteer to go without an allowance, if you get one, to help pay for the kitten's expenses, such as veterinary care, toys, food, litter, cat beds or other supplies. This further shows how dedicated you are to the idea of owning a pet.
Complete all of the chores your mother assigns you regularly to demonstrate how responsible you are. Use this as an example of how you will regularly care for the kitten each day.
Speak to your mother calmly and respectfully, letting her know the main reasons you want a kitten, such as companionship. Ask her if she has any reservations and what they are, so you can address each concern. As the adult in the home, your mother will need to be the one who actually adopts the kitten and who is legally responsible for its care. Let her know that you plan to help out with the expenses and with the daily care of the animal. Give your mother time to think about her decision.
Visit a local shelter or animal rescue with your mother so you can look at the kittens available for adoption together. Ultimately, the two of you need to agree on which kitten to adopt, so this gives her an idea of what animals are available for adoption. This also allows your mother to speak to an adult shelter employee, to ask any questions and address any concerns she has about the care and expense involved in the ownership of a kitten.
How to Persuade My Mom to Get Me a Kitten
A pet, such as a kitten, can provide love and companionship for both you and your family. But first you need to ask your mother for permission if you are under 18 years old and if there are others in the household. A young kitten comes with a lot of responsibility and requires a commitment of 15 to 20 years. Both you and your mother need to agree that a new kitten will have a lifetime of care and proper medical attention.