SAN DIEGO -- A woman who has lived in a Clairemont apartment for years said a change in the rules could force her and her pets out onto the street, 10News reported.

Linda Shacket said she can't imagine life without her two beloved cats, who were adopted from the Humane Society. They have been living in the same apartment together for six years.

"I have a deposit slip proving these cats can live here," said Shacket.

Shacket said she paid a $200 pet deposit in 2003, and the Humane Society called the Stratton Apartments to verify pets were allowed. However, when she went to renew her lease this month she said something was different.

"The fact that six years later they are going to come and say, 'You can't have pets or we are going to evict you.' These are my family members," said Shacket.

Stratton Apartments said they have not allowed pets in the complex for years. They said at one point they were allowed, but would not comment on when the policy was changed.

Steven Kellman of the Tenants Legal Center of San Diego said the complex can make these changes.

"Legally, they're not obligated to accept pets. When a contract expires, so does the tenant's right to be there," said Kellman.

Shacket said she stays at the apartment because the government-assisted housing is all she can afford. Even though she faces an eviction, she said getting rid of her cats is not an option.

"I fully appreciate the fact that I have a roof over my head, but it doesn't mean I have to give up my family members," said Shacket.

The property manager at Stratton Apartments said they did not want to be involved in 10News' story.

Attorneys 10News talked to said service animals are always permitted and an animal can also be accepted if they provide emotional support, but a letter from a doctor is needed.