Advice for Pet Owners Who Live in Apartments

Around 1 in 5 people in the UK live in a flat or apartment and, while it might be trickier for them, it shouldn’t mean missing out on the joys of owning a pet. While there are, of course, unique challenges associated with keeping an animal in a smaller living space, with some careful planning and thoughtful preparation, you can create a nurturing environment that suits both your lifestyle and your pet’s needs. You might not be able to offer them a garden space to run around in but if you live close to a park or choose more of an “indoor” pet, that shouldn’t be an issue.

This is a collaborative post.

Choose the Right Pet

Some pets are perfectly suited for apartment living but others could feel uncomfortable living in such a small space. Consider factors like the pet’s size, temperament, and activity level. Large dogs, for example, might be better suited to a house with a garden, while smaller dog breeds, cats, and other small animals like rabbits or hamsters can be perfect for smaller spaces. Look for breeds that are known to adapt well to indoor living and consider indoor-only house cats if you live in a busy city centre with lots of traffic.

Create a Pet-friendly Environment

Your apartment should be a safe haven for your pet. Designate specific areas for food and water dishes, litter boxes (for cats), and a cosy spot for sleeping. Of course, your bed is always an option but not everybody wants to share a bed with their pets and your landlord might be against the idea anyway.

Before bringing them home, ensure that your home is free of toxic plants, open windows, or small objects that could be swallowed. Keeping them entertained with toys to keep them engaged and make them feel as if this is their home as well as yours is also strongly recommended.

Prepare for Emergencies

The first thing you should do when considering owning a pet is to sign up with a local vet. Emergencies are not always going to require taking them to the vet though, and out-of-hours vet calls can be incredibly expensive. Prepare for emergencies by assembling a pet first-aid kit with things such as rehydration sachets and bandages. Also, don’t forget that investing in pet insurance can safeguard against the unexpected, ensuring your pet’s health is always a priority.

Be Considerate Neighbours

The last thing you want to do is become a burden on your neighbourhood and not everyone loves animals. Keep noise to a minimum, particularly during late hours. This includes managing barking or other loud noises your pet might make. Always clean up after your pet too, particularly in common areas such as hallways and lifts. Owning a pet shouldn’t have to affect anyone else in the block.

Adopting a pet as an apartment dweller requires consideration and preparation, but it can be an incredibly rewarding experience if you’re willing to put in the effort. You should also, of course, check with your landlord first if you’re living in rent accommodation as pet-friendly landlords are few and far between these days.