When you live in an apartment, you are probably living in close contact with your neighbors. Though not all apartments allow pets, you might be lucky enough to find one that does. However, just because you are allowed to bring your pets, that doesn’t mean that you can’t lose the ability to keep them. You have to be a responsible pet owner (or you might anger your neighbors and landlord).
Here are some tips to be a responsible pet owner in an apartment.
Be careful when picking out pets. Not every pet is going to be suited for an apartment so, if you are starting to think about getting a pet, think carefully. A dog who is meant to run on acres will go crazy in a small apartment. Smaller dogs typically do better, though some are barkers, which will annoy your neighbors.
Cats often do better in apartments than dogs. However, some cats are not happy if they can’t get some fresh air every day. If you want a pet, you might want to think about fish, hamster, guinea pigs, and smaller pets who don’t care where they live, as long as their pen is big enough.
Make sure that your pets are healthy. Keep your pets as healthy as possible so illnesses and diseases don’t spread between pets in the apartment building. Start their vaccinations and make sure that they get them updated on a regular basis. If they are sick, get them the veterinary care that they need, before they get everyone else sick.
Spay and neuter your pets. You should also spay and neuter your pets. Not only does this keep them healthier (and less likely to run off), it also prevents unwanted puppies and kittens. Nothing can upset neighbors more than an unwanted pregnancy.
Pick up after your pets. Many apartments have playgrounds, walkways, and common areas for all to enjoy. These can be great places to walk your dog. However, you need to pick up after your dog goes to the bathroom. If you don’t, people are quickly going to get mad when they step in it.
This is also necessary with smaller pets. The smell can grow and spread to your neighbors. Make sure that you clean your cat’s litter pan on a regular basis. If you have any other pets, like guinea pigs, hamsters, or something similar, change the bedding often to keep the smell down.
Make sure that your pets get the exercise that they need. Sometimes pets that are kept in an apartment are cooped up so they end up having too much energy. This makes them more excitable, loud, and often unruly. To keep your pets calmer, give them the exercise that they need. Take dogs outside to play so they are less likely to bark with every little noise. Make sure that you find ways to get your cat the exercise necessary too!
If work is being done, take the necessary precautions with your pets. If your apartment is having work done, lock your pets in their crate or a room so that they are not a bother for those who are doing the work. If there is work being done at the apartment complex, make sure that you keep your dog out of those areas while workers are busy. Be respectful. It goes a long way!
You can have a pet while living in an apartment, as long as you think about those who live around you. Keep your pets healthy so you don’t get anyone else sick. Make sure that your pets get the exercise that they need so that they are happy (and your neighbors are too)! You should also pick up after your pets and keep them out of the way of workers so you can live happily ever after with your pets by your side.
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