Organize Your Dog's Toys To Avoid Sloppy Stumbles
This one is good for people who like to splurge on trinkets for their fur babies. Owners love to spoil pets with toys, and pets love to play with them. But it's not a bad idea to designate a box for organizing the chaos.
Guests and residents can easily trip over surprises on the floor, and that's not good for anyone. Pets don't want to see you hurt, most of all: Toys should be a source of fun, not stumbles and bruises!
Heavy, Covered Garbage Cans Are The Genius Move
We might think that old, stinky garbage is gross, but do dogs feel the same way? No, they actually find it fascinating. For this reason, it's important to invest in a heavy-duty trash can inside the home.
As hard as they may try to resist, some trash is just too intriguing to pass up, and dogs who want a taste will go the distance to get it. If you don't want to invest in a serious metal bin, at least keep a covered can inside the lower sink cabinet. The extra effort will be worth it, we promise!
Beware: Trendy Plants Can Become a Tummy Ache
Got a green thumb? That's awesome. People with a talent for plants love to bring their passion inside and combine it with decor. But if pets are involved, there actually are precautions that should be taken in this area.
Some pets are more sensitive to the effects of certain plants. A few species are downright poisonous! Innocent as they may seem, lilies and tulips are toxic for cats. Aloe is a big no-no for dogs. Research is always wise!
Secure Dangling Wires, For The Love Of God
It's hard to avoid the buildup of cords and wires around a modern home. These days, the list of essential electronics is a long one. But pets don't need to get tangled up in that lifestyle, do they?
It goes without saying that dangling cords are a hazard for dogs and cats. Running around and getting knotted is a choking risk, and there is always the issue of chewing. A plugged-in wire is just not something you want to bite! There are cord management systems out there, sure. But the cheaper solution is to get a pack of zip ties and organize them in a bunch. Peace of mind, anyone?
Put Baking Soda in the Litter Box For Fresh Vibes
Let's be honest: That litterbox aroma is probably not your favorite. No one ever said it was refreshing, baking ut that doesn't mean it has to take over the entire house. With just one small trick, tins can get a lot nicer, smell-wise. Cats and humans alike will love this one!
Many cats turn up their whiskers at scented litter. Sometimes it seems like it was just designed for people to enjoy! Instead, try sprinkling baking soda at the bottom of the box as a stealthier way to cut down on odor. Hidden under the litter, the right amount will be unnoticeable to the box user. Fresh and clean, coming right up!
Tools Totally Belong In Drawers or Secure Boxes
It might seem like a no-brainer, but keep sharp tools in a toolbox. For those who love to do DIY projects, that can be a hard rule to follow, as projects lie around partially completed. But it's an important one when those with soft paws are always around.
It is the easiest thing in the world to leave out partially completed projects and the tools that you use, but absent-mindedness in this area can be a big mistake. Pets really don't mix with hammers, screws, nails, or scissors. If you've got a secure box or drawer, it's time to get acquainted with it!
Newsflash: Dogs Get Bored, Just Like Us
Some professionals have the luxury of working in a dog-friendly office. But not everyone can bring their four-legged friend to the job, and that creates a challenge. Just what is a canine supposed to do all day, lonely indoors?
Some experts suggest offering a special treat for the times a pet will be left alone for a while. It can be put inside a puzzle toy, to keep them, extra busy. It can be beneficial t put on a radio program or soft music so that they aren't stuck in a silent, sad place. The best check-in is a new wi-fi pet camera that allows your voice to come through and a snack to be dispensed. Yes, this really exists!
Dogs And Cats Love VIP Access, Too
The big door at our house isn't always open, for good reason. Security is key! But staying in can get claustrophobic sometimes. Dogs and cats don't have the ability to open the door to go out for fresh air. Why not install a tiny exit, just for them?
Homeowners have long installed little doors for their furry friends. But it might be an option for apartment dwellers with balconies, too. Going outside whenever you feel like it is a luxury all creatures enjoy!
Kitties Love To Sneak Around Nature, So Help Them
In the backyard, or even on a small city balcony, it's not hard to bring in a little greenery to amuse your pet. It's only natural for them to explore flowers and leaves. But if the area is barren, they are denied the opportunity. Don't do that!
It's great to plant some catnip, of course. But variety is the spice of life, as they say. Don't be afraid to mix it up out there with cat grass and catmint. Honeysuckle and valerian are said to be popular with felines, too. Look it up! A magical meow garden awaits, with the right planning.
The Wise Among Us Keep Food and Snacks Sealed
We all love having a creature we know in our homes. But sometimes, critters get invited by accident! Bugs love to visit bags of pet food, whether or not they are welcome. How can that be avoided?
To avoid infestations, it might be worth your time to transfer pet food for the paper or cardboard packaging it comes in to air-tight, plastic storage bins. Rodents and bugs are no match for giant Tupperware! Plus, the chow will stay fresher for longer. What do you have to lose?
Baby Locks In Kitchens And Bathrooms Are A Pretty Smart Hack
Young parents and pet parents both know one thing very well. The second we look away, disaster strikes! It's impossible to keep a watchful eye, at all times. Some cabinets and rooms should be off-limits, and there is an easy way to take control. Keep track by utilizing baby locks and gates!
Certain rooms just have hazards as part of their function. Make sure to baby-lock bathroom cabinets and kitchen drawers, if they are low to the floor. Pets love to explore and paw things open. Gates can block off a whole area, perhaps for craft rooms with sharp tools. Mitigate the risk, with an easy hack!
Every Kitty Needs A Little Sunshine In His Life
For cats especially, a good patch of sunshine is always appreciated. The indoor space of a home may have a lot going on, though. Why not create a comfy spot where the sun usually says hello?
Feeling warm and secure is a signal it's time to fall asleep, as even humans can understand. Cats actually change their sleeping positions to follow the moving sun. They use the temperature difference to regulate their own!
Give Your Cat A Retreat For Maximum Comfort
Cats in particular can be finicky friends. They love to be with people, on their terms. But at times, they need their space. How should an ideal hideaway be set up, for felines?
It's best to create a situation where a cat can hide in plain sight, but still be part of the family. Designate an area of the living room that you do not disturb. This helps them feel safe and secure, whenever they need to recharge. Taking a time out from social requirements is a must for these creatures. Sometimes, they need to disappear for a while to get comfortable with their new humans over time, on their terms. Maybe they're actually introverts in the animal world?
Keep Clothing Out Of Reach, Or Prepare To Spend
Everyone has seen a dog chewing on an old shoe, at some point. It does look like lots of fun. A problem only arises when a pet gets ahold of a new shoe. Puppies who are teething are especially chewy! What's the recommended fix, here?
Don't expect canines to resist a good sneaker. And don't expect cats to reject intriguing sequins, buttons, or laces. The temptation is just too strong. Especially if it smells like their beloved owner! Keep your favorites out of sight, and out of mind, as a rule of thumb.
Keep Things Fresh With Doubles And Triples
Even if you only have one pet, it still might be a nice idea to give them choice in their lives. We all love to have options! In the world of dogs and cats, there is a lot that can be done to give them a little more variety and excitement.
Beds, cat igloos, cat trees, and sources of food and after are all good things that can be duplicated around the house. With a little extra investment, pets have more ways to access the things to know and love while avoiding disturbances. This gives both of you more freedom to use the same space, and live in harmony.
Animals Don't Like Rainy Days Any More Than We Do
In an outdoor space, pets are exposed to all the elements. Sunshine is wonderful. But what about sprinkles? Rain, sleet, and just plain old wind can really interrupt a playful afternoon in the backyard. Shelter options are essential!
A totally bare backyard can also make an animal feel exposed and vulnerable. No one wants that during playtime! Shrubs and bushes offer some cover if that's built into the property. Boxes, tables, and chairs can be added for more concealment if an unfamiliar animal or visitor walks by. And when the weather inevitably shifts, pets can easily adjust to a more comfortable spot. Seems essential, really!
Don't Temp Dogs With A Phone Charger Chew Toy
Phones are attached to us like an extra organ these days. Battery power constantly needs to be refreshed with a charger. It's important to make sure they are strategically placed around the home, though. To a puppy, they might look like a delicious toy, believe it or not!
Just remove the intrigue, and keep chargers where they belong. Maybe some plugs are lower to the ground. Choose the higher ones, for peace of mind while you are out of the room. At a minimum, you will avoid a damaged charger or a smashed, fallen phone. Chewing on electrical items can also have more dire consequences!
Decorate Your Apartment Strategically, But Don't Give Up On Style
Interior design is an obsession for some, and no one can blame them. There are certainly worse addictions out there! With inspiration from visual social media, decorating ideas have become easier than ever to access. But where do pets fit into that?
Even the most well-trained pooches make mistakes. And cats? Well, they do whatever they want. For this reason, it might be a good idea to avoid fancy leather sofas in the rooms your pet likes best. Gnawing on couch corners and scratching kitty claws are just instincts. Keep stylish decor up high to avoid smashes as well. Overall, it's best to use items that are inexpensive and can be replaced, if necessary, without breaking the bank. Be smart, and happy decorating!
Be Smart: Check Fences For Holes, All The Time
For those who live on their own property, a front yard and a backyard can be a blessing for a dog. But responsible owners know that a good, sturdy fence is essential. There's legal liability for dogs that escape and bite people in the neighborhood, not surprisingly!
Fences are usually made of wood planks, and a slot can easily open up if the wood is weak. Make it a priority to check on the integrity of the fence. Your pet might think they want to escape for an adventure, but they might just get their head stuck. And that's no fun, is it?
Check Your Beloved Pet's Location Before Slamming Doors
Pets know there is a lot to explore in every nook and cranny. For owners rushing around with their heads up high, it's a good idea to look down once and a while. There's always a chance that a creature is following your feet, close behind!
Cats and dogs do follow their owners around sometimes. It's not predictable, and the rush of life can leave us distracted. Even if pets don't get shut in the door itself, they can get shut inside a room without access to their food or water. And then, you might leave for the weekend. Yikes!
Look Out For Small Spaces Where A Kitty Could Get Stuck
The internet is full of cats squeezed into tiny places, everywhere you look. It is certainly amusing to see a cat filling up a vase or a bowl with its fuzzy body. And there is a natural reason behind this behavior, it turns out.
While humans might complain about claustrophobia from time to time, cats feel differently. Being in a snug spot makes them feel comforted! But if they don't know exactly where they are sneaking into, they could get stuck. Try blocking off areas like water heaters, for their own good!
Stay Strong: Don't Break Furniture Rules for Doggies
Every human has their comfort zone when it comes to fancy furniture and bed space. If there are places you just don't want dogs to go, it's important to set clear terms early on. And then, stick with them!
Although some owners don't mind if their pup sits beside them anywhere and everywhere, guests do come by. Not everyone is a dog lover, as strange as that may seem to some. Furthermore, large dogs can get pretty heavy and damage furniture, and shaggy dogs can shed all over the fabric. Whatever decision is made about certain spots, stick with it. Puppy eyes can be had to resist, but consistency is key!
Medication and Makeup Should Never Become A Snack
In busy homes, a lot of things get left out in the open. That's perfectly natural. It's one thing to leave books and cups on the table, but it's another to leave behind cosmetics and pills when there is a pet sharing living space.
If it can be reached, it can be chewed and swallowed. And surprise, surprise: Not everything has safe ingredients. A nightstand drawer or cabinet was literally made to store these items. Why not put them to good use, starting today?
Always Double Check The Dryer Before A Cycle, People
It's a recurring nightmare for some folks. Getting stuck in a washing machine or dryer as it cycles on and on. It's totally unrealistic for a person to fit inside, of course. But pets are another story, aren't they?
To be super safe, just take an extra peek in the dryer before loading clothes. And in between uses, close the door completely. Cats don't know any better. Don't make them learn the hard way!
Keep All Breakable Items Away From Wandering Paws
It goes without saying that things break from time to time. It's just a part of life, as we all must accept. When dogs are involved, they can easily rampage through a small space and cause accidental damage. And cats can jump just about anywhere, knocking over vases and trinkets like no one else. They aren't nicknamed curious cats for no reason!
Keep an extra eye out of mugs and flower pots, which are small enough for a feline to move off a ledge or table. And dogs? Even for well-trained dogs, there is a hazard: Excited tails! It's easy to rampage through a house of glass without trying if a dog is all enough. Make things easy on everyone., and plan fragile decor accordingly.
Dark Garages Are Hazards, Obviously
Extras we don't want in our homes usually end up in the garage. And although cats and dogs are not supposed to be poking around in there unattended, they're probably going to try. Cats are the sneakiest of all in the pet world. It's so easy for them to slip by, silently.
Every once and a while, a story surfaces of a kitten discovered in a car engine or hiding in the wheel for days. When everything is quiet, these might seem like great places to hang out. But when it's inevitably time to drive, this is terrifying. Without supervision, it can easily happen behind your back!
Don't Be Too Lazy To Move Furniture On Cleaning Day
The task that never seems to end is cleaning, cleaning, cleaning. As soon as things are tidy, they start to get dirty again. The madness! For those of us without maids, it's a constant chore. Do we always do a thorough job?
Sometimes, we have to admit we take shortcuts. Just vacuuming the couch and sweeping the floor might appear to tidy things up. But the truth is, food and other small items do slip into the creases of couches, and things roll under furniture. It's best to physically move everything and check. Why take any risk that hazards are lurking below?
Arts And Crafts Are Fun, But Hide All Supplies
Crafts have become popular again, haven't they? We all thought that knitting and beading had gone out of style. But social media seems to have made vintage hobbies cool again, as people show off their impressive creations.
Some of those people have pets, though. Bibs and bobs can be extremely hazardous if swallowed. Ribbons can also be swallowed, surprisingly enough. And at the very least, miles of yarn and can be a pain to untangle and reorganize, over and over again. Craft stores sell containers for a reason. Keep it smart, folks!
Batteries Should Never Be Around To Bite
Batteries power so many gadgets in our lives, these days. From remote controls to flashlights, it's an essential technology to keep things going. Every once and a while, they do need to be replaced. But always be careful leaving old or new ones lying around in the process.
Chemicals burns or heavy metal poisoning? No thanks. If a battery breaks open, these are real risks. But there is also a risk of swallowing one whole, and that can cause an internal obstruction. You might not know what is even wrong, until the X-ray. But it's best to avoid the tummyache, altogether!
Go Ahead, Create A Doggie Haven
Cats always want their own space, sure. But dogs occasionally want it, too! For a great getaway indoors, try creating a doggy haven. What does this concept involve, you ask?
Create a corner, just for downtime. A dog bed, a few toys, and an extra food and water bowl in this area can work wonders to make this place a complete retreat. This is a place to chew bones and be at home!
Put Those Board Games Away, Please
There's chess and checkers, Monopoly, and even The Game of Life. We all have a favorite board game. All of them seem to involve lots of little pieces. Can anyone say choking hazard?
Sure, board games already come in boxes. But they are usually flimsy cardboard if we are being honest. They are easy to knock over, and more security is better. Get a giant plastic bin with a sealed core, and store all games together. Who plays with what toys will no longer be a debate!
Hiding Cleaning Chemicals Is the Smart Move
Cleaning products are a must-have in the kitchen and bathroom. But for those with pets. It's important to keep them locked away somewhere safe when they are not in use. It's all poison, after all!
It might be surprising to hear, but some pets like the taste of antifreeze. Rumor has it, this stuff tastes sweet! Some like to lick window sprays. None of these items are meant to end up in the bodies of animals. Clean up spills, close things tightly, and hide them away!
Don't Take A Risk: Avoid Leaving Out Wrappers
Besides the most extreme clean freaks, we probably all leave a little mess behind at times. What's the bother with a wrapper or two, on the coffee table? It's no big deal when it's just us. But for curious dogs, it could become an issue quickly.
It may look harmless to both you and your dog. But a stray candy wrapper may smell like the candy that was once inside, and lead to a taste test. At the end of the day, this is a choking hazard. Tidy up, every time!
Finding A Pet-Friendly Apartment Building Is Gold
For city slickers, moving from apartment to apartment is just a part of the modern experience. Real estate pros claim it's all about location, location, location. But those with pets know there is an even more important consideration. Does the building even welcome animals?
As harsh as it may sound, some complexes frown upon or even outright ban dogs while welcoming cats! On your search, prioritize this issue. It's best to be with like-minded neighbors in a place where you are truly welcome. Doesn't your pet deserve the best?
Cleaning The Garage Floor Is Just Common Sense
Garage floors can be icky, sticky places, and no one likes filthy paws. Motor oil, brake fluid, antifreeze — there's a whole lot of toxic going on there, and it's easy to miss a leak. Your pet might find it before you do!
Licking out of curiosity is just a natural behavior, but this is not the place for my of that. Especially after an oil change, check to see what's happening on the floors beneath your vehicle. In a perfect world, this would be a pet-free zone. But getting into the car together means that some presence might be unavoidable. Always watch, for the best results.
If You Can, Always Choose a Pet-Friendly Neighborhood
Everyone who owns a dog is bound to take them out several times a day. At a minimum, it's required as a bathroom habit. Isn't it nice when the neighborhood is full of friendly routines?
Canines need plenty of outdoor time, and it's great when there are friends to romp around with. Neighborhoods close to a dog park would be ideal for those who have breeds that require extra exercise. Don't overlook that perk while shopping around: It's a major plus, from your dog's point of view!
Make Sure Air Vents Are Covered For Little Paws
It's something we take for granted: Air just flows through the home, cold or warm, as needed. But where does it actually come from? Why, air vents, of course. Those can be located in many spots, and pets may interact with them.
Why is that important? Smaller animals can actually get their little paws jammed inside. Pets of all sizes have claws that can get stuck. And from your point of view, it's a chance to blow airs all over the house. Don't let them hang out there, if at all possible. Try to block the area, strategically.
Install A Dream Scratching Post For Kitty
For cat lovers who choose not to declaw, they know their pet is going to need an outlet. Felines just seem to have a natural urge to scratch something, anything. Luckily, scratching posts are available for purchase. Where should they be placed?
Pay attention to the places your cat naturally wants to scratch. It may be bothering you that then couch is chosen, over and over. That's probably why you bought the post in the first place. But something about your cat's natural instincts is leading them to mark their territory, right there. Put the post nearby, so they can do what they need to do. They know their secret logic!
Never Let Whiskers Get In The Way Of Dinner
Cat amateurs may think that whiskers are just some sort of decoration. But no! These hairs actually serve an important purpose to sense their environment. They are absolutely functional. And they are super sensitive!
Try buying a bowl that makes meals truly comfortable. Wide, low dishes are best, so whiskers don't get irritated and squished while eating. It's a small change, but your cat is sure to appreciate it. No big deal, is it?
Give Felines The Vertical Space They Crave
Cats really do seem to enjoy sitting in high places. Why not make it simpler for them to find their spot? Cat condos are easy enough to find at the pet store, these days.
The creation of vertical space is not a small thing, in cat world. It's what these creatures dream of on a daily basis to survey the room on high, and scope out prey. It may be a little outdated when cans of chicken are easily available. But as they say, practice makes perfect, or in this case — purrfect.