HOUSTON, May 16 (UPI) -- Rice University had a purr-fect strategy for getting a top high school recruit to commit to play football for the Owls.

Kinkaid quarterback J.T. Granato was impressed by a letter that co-offensive coordinator Billy Lynch sent to Kitty Granato -- the Granato's family cat.


@JTGranato10 committed to Rice today. Rice closed the deal by sending JT's cat a recruiting letter. Well done Owls pic.twitter.com/NBCqPX7PIG — John Granato (@johngranato) May 16, 2014

Here's what Lynch had to say to Granato in his letter:

"As you know we're trying to convince J.T. Rice is the place for him. I know you'd like to keep him close so he can feed you and change the litter box. Please help us to get him to choose us. Paw me if you have any questions."

Granato committed to the Owls on Thursday after throwing for 3,500 yards and 42 touchdowns in 11 unbeaten games and leading Kinkaid to the Southwest Preparatory Conference championship.

Officially committed to Rice... can't wait for what lies ahead — JT Granato (@JTGranato10) May 15, 2014

The popular prospect had also received interest from Houston, Maryland, Indiana, Kansas, Wake Forest and Southern Miss.