Bringing a new pet home is a life-changing experience. Pets — particularly dogs and cats — help relieve stress, anxiety, and sadness, as well as alleviate loneliness and even improve mental health. However, no matter what kind of fluffer you choose to adopt or buy, balancing apartment living with pet parenting is sometimes a bit difficult. A short preparation period is necessary for you to welcome your new pet successfully.
Whether it is a dog, a cat, or even a hamster or a fish that you want to bring home, your apartment likely needs a few changes. Living with a pet in your apartment can be challenging, so we have prepared a short guide on the steps you need to take to prepare for it.
1. Make Sure You Are Allowed to Have a Puppy or a Cat in Your Apartment
When preparing for a puppy or a kitten, be sure your apartment and neighborhood are pet friendly. Before signing the adoption paperwork, check with your landlord. Re-evaluate your lease and check if you are allowed to bring a pet into the apartment. If your apartment is not pet friendly, you can start looking for another one.
Los Angeles is one of the most pet-friendly cities in the country, so finding an apartment in Los Angeles for you and your new pet will be easy. Also, if applicable, discuss this initiative with your roommate to make sure they are comfortable with it.
Consider how much space you have available before getting a pet. Certain pets are quite anxious; therefore, they require a safe haven away from loud noises and other stress factors. Some dog breeds –such as German Shepherds and Labradors — are not ideal for tiny apartment living since they become bored quickly and have high energy.
On the other hand, some of the best dog breeds for apartment life are the Pug, the cutest couch potato in the world, the French Bulldog, which is adorable, petite, and rarely barks, and the Bichon Frise, a fluffy, playful companion who can adore just about everyone.
Consider yourself prepared to adopt a pet if you have verified that you are allowed to have one in your apartment and it fits its size, is comfy, and doesn’t require more space than you can supply.
2. Create a Welcoming Environment for Your Pet
Usually, it’s best to let the pets explore and discover the new place at a pace they are comfortable with. Spreading their things around their home and letting them sniff or inspect each spot can help them feel like the home is their territory. Pets need the visual stimulation that the outside provides, so ensure they have access to sunlight and a nice view over the neighborhood.
A pet has needs and requirements, so there are some items you should buy before bringing it home. First, provide a safe place for your new pet and arrange its own little corner: a cat tree, a scratcher, a little bed, blankets and toys, like like our own Pacific Pups Products toys, a food and water bowl, and grooming equipment. Make a world for your pet right down to its level.
Then, find the best veterinarian and follow his recommendations to create a plan and get supplies such as vet-approved food, pet-safe home cleansers, flea and tick treatment, treats, and grooming tools.
3. Start Cat and Dog Proofing the Apartment
Secure items that can be destroyed by curious pets (electric wires, chargers that can be chewed, glass vases, plants, big TVs). Your belongings may be saved through precautions. Lock the doors to the washers and dryers and cover the garbage can and air vents.
Keep your pricey possessions in a secure room. Lock up the medicines, chemicals, and cosmetics. If you reside on a high floor, keep your balcony always closed. Close the toilet lid and restrict access to dangerous areas.
Careful planning in advance can help you make sure that having a puppy in your apartment does not lead to trouble. When preparing for a puppy, bear in mind that some dogs dislike the taste of bitter things. Using apple spray on your furniture may prevent the puppy from scratching and chewing it.
4. Educate Yourself while Preparing for a Puppy or a Cat
Having a puppy or cat in an apartment implies having some knowledge about it. Familiarize yourself with the pet’s growth stages and what to expect at each stage, as well as frequent health issues and personality quirks. Spend time observing and studying their behavior patterns, and if necessary, seek support on how to train your pet to be calm and responsive to your commands.
Also, some breeds of dogs or cats are high-maintenance and demand more care. For example, Persian cats require daily brushing and frequent coat trimming to avoid matting. Siamese and other fluffy breeds, like the Maine coon, require regular grooming and care.
Due to their lack of fur, Sphynx cats should be consistently washed to eliminate dirt and oil from their skin. They should also be protected from the sun. Learn the characteristics of the breed of dog or cat you are looking to adopt and get ready to care for it properly.
Preparing for a puppy or kitten is not easy, and it might feel like you have a small baby in your house that you must care for and keep out of trouble. However, a pet may be your greatest and most faithful buddy. Preparing to welcome pets into your house only helps to make your future everyday living with them simpler. So, follow these tips before embarking on a new adventure with your new companion.
Article by Lisa Smith
Photo by Yuliya kota