Cities are getting more and more built up now, meaning many people are turning the backyard dream into apartment living for affordability and convenience. While many apartments still provide ample space for pets, they do alter how pets need to be cared for and nurtured to ensure they always feel their best.
Thinking of moving into an apartment with your pets? Or perhaps you’re already living with pets in an apartment, and you want to ensure you’re providing the best care. We’ve detailed some key dos and don’ts below.
Do: Prioritise daily stimulation
Without access to a backyard or as much run-around space indoors, pets can become bored easily. For this reason, it’s important to build your routine around what your pet needs. Think playtime, structured walks, and even run-around time. This can ensure that destructive behaviour is kept to a minimum and that your pet is always on their best behaviour.
The above can also prevent or reduce anxiety when you aren't with your furry or feathered friend for long periods, such as when you’re at work.
Do: Create a dedicated pet space
You have your own space, and your pet needs theirs. Having a bed zone or even a corner of a room dedicated to your space helps them feel secure. It also allows them to retreat to their space when they’ve had enough with playtime, or when they are ready for a nap.
Do: Choose apartment-appropriate breeds
Some pets will naturally adapt better to an apartment than others. If you don’t already own a pet, but you’re thinking of getting one in an apartment, be sure to do your research. Cats will naturally acclimate better to a smaller environment, for example. However, the right dog breeds can also adapt well. Research into the energy and care needs of each breed you are considering can help you make the best choice.
Remember. Size is not everything. Some larger dog breeds are better suited to apartments than some smaller breeds.
Don’t: Ignore noise training.
Even the most soundproofed apartments will experience noise, especially that usually indicative of high-density living, such as traffic. Training your pet to respond to noises appropriately is critical and can prevent anxiety.
Noise training should go the other way, too. It’s essential to understand how barking, scratching, and nighttime activity can become a problem in shared living spaces. Training your pets to understand quiet times and when activity is permitted is critical for reducing stress.
Don’t: Make assumptions about comfort levels.
If your pet is quiet in an apartment from the onset, it’s not wise to assume that they are comfortable or settled. Many pets grow quiet before they get destructive, and ignoring the quiet period often leads to nightmare training stories.
Ensure that you are enriching your pet daily with toys, walks, games and activities to prevent a sudden change in behaviour. As a reminder, a quiet pet does not always imply a happy pet. It may be a sign that boredom has settled in, which can take a toll at any moment.
The PetNest team is here to help.
We believe that everyone should experience the joy of pets, no matter where they live. Our range ensures that pets living in houses, through to pets living in apartments, are cared for and nurtured. Explore our extensive pet supply range today to ensure they’re always treated to the best.
