That picture melted my heart!

I went through similar nonsense, at a pet shop. Even had to get the landlord's letter of approval (despite a cat being approved on the lease agreement, which I brought with me), an "attestation of responsibility" from my parents (with which I haven't lived for years at that point), and enter a 15-day waiting period as they review my application. Complete BS. Went to the pound and got one same day with none of that nonsense, for much less money, and prevented him from being euthanized later that same week. I did have to sign some agreement that stated that I will always treat the cat with care and compassion, and that if I didn't want him in the future that I will return him to the pound and not let him free (all things that were a 'given' to me, but I guess they had issues in the past). I miss that little hooligan (RIP).

The other cat from the pet shop got adopted / purchased within a few days, too, so it really was a win-win-win situation.