Choosing the Best Pet for Apartment Living


Having a pet may seem impossible if you live in an apartment, but that doesn’t have to be the case. It’s true that some animals are not suited to small spaces, but there are plenty of others that do very well in cozy settings. Here are the best pets to consider if you live in an apartment.

Cats

A cat is an excellent option for an apartment dweller because they don’t need to be walked and they can easily be entertained indoors. They love to play with toys, so it’s easy to make sure they get exercise without the need for long walks outdoors. They enjoy climbing and scratching, so a cat tree can provide additional opportunities for entertainment without taking up a lot of floor space. Just remember, you will need to take precautions to make sure they don’t scratch up your furniture or carpet.

In general, cats are loners, so they’re okay with hanging out in your apartment during the day. They’ll probably sleep most of the time, and that’s perfectly normal. Just be sure to provide plenty of attention and stimulation when you’re at home.

Dogs

When considering a dog for apartment living, size isn’t the only thing that matters. In general, dogs are social creatures, so they’ll do better if your workdays are on the shorter side. Also, consider the energy characteristics of the breed you’re considering. A young pup is going to need a lot more exercise than an older dog. And often, little dogs are very energetic, so they’ll need you to provide plenty of exercise.

Another thing to consider is the noise level. An energetic little dog may also bark a lot and disturb your neighbors. Hiring a dog walker to come to take your pooch out in the middle of the day can be an excellent solution for providing enough exercise, and remember, a tired dog is a lot more likely to be quiet and stay out of trouble, too.

Fish and Reptiles

Tank pets can be an excellent option for an apartment dweller because they are very quiet, and no extra exercise is required. Of course, you’re not going to get the same level of affection from your pet gecko as you would from a dog or cat, but the tradeoff is a very low maintenance pet that requires minimal space. In fact, watching a tank full of fish can even reduce stress and lower blood pressure.

Guinea Pigs and Other Small Pets

Guinea pigs and other small pets like hamsters and gerbils are also great low maintenance pets for apartment dwellers. Their space requirements are minimal, and they won’t be loud enough to disturb your neighbors. And, if you want to get a pet that’s going to bond with you and get excited when you come home without the high maintenance of a dog, a guinea pig might be the perfect choice for you.

Even apartment dwellers can enjoy having a pet to come home to after a long day at work. Just make sure you do the proper research and planning before you bring home your new friend. And, of course, you’ll need to make sure you have your apartment managers approval, as well.