I decided to get my son a cat after we moved into our new apartment. When it came around to sign a new lease I paid a pet deposit of $300 on top of that they want an additional $20 a month for a "Pet Fee" and it is to be included in my rent each month (no separate check). I just want to know if the are legally aloud to ask for both in the state of California? Thanks.

It's legal in VA.

As long as the terms are not hidden, leases are pretty much "anything goes" as long as both parties agree to the terms. And in Texas, I know that they can charge both. It's no different than them charging more for an apartment with an additional amenity, like a fireplace or a washer.