Small Space Solutions for Pets

Exercising Pets Has Gotten Easier

Living in an apartment or a house with a small yard doesn’t mean you can’t have a happy hound or content cat. Regardless of breed and size, dogs and cats adapt well to living in a small space, despite the lack of room to romp and roam. Your pet can get as much exercise in an urban setting as those who are backyard bound.

Bark Parks

Dog parks are usually a safe place for dogs to run and socialize with other neighborhood pooches. Bark park rules usually warn against bringing dogs in heat, those with aggressive tendencies and any with parasites and illnesses.

Housebound Hounds

Dog-walking services are also available by popular demand. This may be a reliable solution for those with puppies and those working long hours or traveling. Pet walkers are required to be bonded, insured and licensed, and some businesses offer dog training classes and pet boarding as well.

Doggie Romper Room

Doggie daycare facilities provide exercise and playtime away from home. Imagine a Gymboree for pets. While you’re working, your furry companion is chasing balls and playing tug-a-war with pup pals under the supervision of an experienced staff. Most offer rates for full-, half- and multi-days, as well as training and pet grooming services.

Cats Go Mental

While cats aren’t offered the same daycare luxury, they can be easily entertained with a variety of cat toys at home. Interactive toys such as motion-activated mice, wands with an elastic string and dangling toy, and treat balls not only mentally stimulate your cat but also encourage exercise. Scratching posts, towers and dens, and carpeted cat trees are perfect for climbing, playing and hiding.

The Self-Imposed Cat Crate

Cats like to squeeze themselves into small spaces. They crawl into drawers, baskets, and boxes. They climb into corners of closets, hide under beds, and station themselves in the corner of your favorite easy chair. Before you've even unpacked your groceries, your cat is curled up inside one of the paper bags.

If it is small in area and has at least three sides, your cat will probably climb inside and make himself comfortable.

It isn't difficult to imagine why cats like being enclosed. They feel snug and protected in smaller, defined places. Cats have a natural need for warmth and protection; their ever-present instinct tells them to be alert to dangers that might sneak up on them when they are dozing. If the enclosure has a top, that's even better.

Create Comfort Zones

You should make sure your pet has a variety of snug places where he can curl up and take a nap. Pet stores, pet Web sites and pet supply catalogs carry an endless variety of beds, boxes and hideaways from which to choose. But a simple homemade Shangri-La can be made from a cardboard box tipped on its side and lined with a soft pillow or blanket. An upside-down box with holes cut in the sides also will make a nice retreat. Or just open a drawer once in a while and see if your kitty takes up residence. Paper bags (but not plastic ones) also make great hideaways.

Perfect For A Cat Nap

Some cats like their cat carriers, too, especially if they've had plenty of opportunity to explore them. Place the carrier in a room where your kitty likes to hang out and remove the door, or prop it open. Put treats or favorite toys inside, and let him discover them on his own. If the carrier is furnished with his favorite blanket, the familiar scent will help him to accept it, and you may find him nestled in there when he's ready for a nap. Then when it's time for a visit to the veterinarian, it won't be so scary because he'll be in his "home away from home."

A Personal Touch

Sometimes the simplest solution is the best: a good belly rub and tug of war perks up any pat. Stimulation is key for your furry friends—those which will be happy being wherever home is, as long as it’s with you.

If you liked this article, you may also enjoy reading about the best cat toys and summertime fun for dogs.

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