Kill me if you will, but I've always hidden my puddy tat....
Yeah I'd be inclined to "leave them out" of the applications too, so to speak. Cats are pretty low key and don't destroy anything in a house, ever. Well Mum's doesn't, the only reason you even know he's there is when he comes out in winter for some body heat. The only worry would be surprise visits and to make sure they're well hidden at rent inspections ...