How to say "No" to a pet request

[Marcin G.]

Hi BiggerPockets Friends!

I am about to say "No" to a tenant in response to a request for having a cat in the room. Would you recommend the best way to do so?

Of course, the lease does not allow to have pets.

However, it is more complicated ... I owe and manage a student rental property, and when COVID hit the college went into online learning mode, so finding new tenants is almost impossible. Therefore, in July, I allowed one of the new tenants to get a cat. She got two cats (of course), and now another tenant is asking to keep a cat in the room. I really want to say "No", so any help would be appreciated.

Have a great day everyone!