Nice part is if your insurance does not exclude animal liability (I'm seeing it more and more on many insurers forms) the lawyers is also paid by insurance.

Pet deposit is legal as long as the applicant doesn't claim it to be a service or therapy animal.

Pacing animals can do a bunch of damage.

We have long known that diseases, especially viruses, can pop up from animal sources.

Two different animals. 

I'd check with your insurance carrier on specific language about animals/dogs/pets.

However, you need to understand that a large portion of Section 8 tenants are complete animals.

For example "No cooking grease, oil, animal meat bones, pasta, rice, any other substance down the garbage disposals except apple and carrot peels and liquids with no solid matter such as juice and soda" and "no vaping and smoking of any tobacco product, marijuana or any substance" on the property, including the backyard"  

It not only alleviates potential challenges but also ensures a smoother and less daunting process.Considering your investing capital and funding sources is also key.

Would you also evict the tenant if they had called animal control and had your cat trapped and taken to the shelter?