Today, pet-friendly apartments come equipped with amenities like dog parks, pet runs, spas, and paw washes. As a result, it’s easier to raise a happy and healthy pet in an apartment than ever before. Still, there are a handful of pet products you’ll need while living in an apartment.
First Aid Kit
Just as your bathroom or kitchen should house a first aid kit in case you’re ever injured, you should have one on hand for your pet. The kit should include antibiotic ointment, hydrocortisone spray, hydrogen peroxide, ear-cleaning solution, a rectal thermometer, gauze, saline, cotton swabs, and tweezers.
Bed
Every pet deserves a little space where he can relax and rest up throughout the day and night. Try to have a pet bed in your apartment the day you bring your dog or cat home for the first time so he is familiar with it from day one. If you’re going to spend lavishly on one pet product, splurge on a nice bed so your four legged-friend can get his beauty rest. You’ll both benefit.
Crate/Pet Gate
Crates are great for potty training, and are especially important for apartment dwellers who hope to have their pet deposits returned when they move out. Don’t let the prison-like look of a crate lead you to think it’s a cruel place for your furry friend. With a pet bed, a water bowl, and a favorite toy inside, a crate can be a safe and comfortable space for your dog or cat to spend several hours each day. Depending on your situation, you may consider a pet gate in place of or in addition to a crate.
Furniture Protectant
Treat your furniture with Scotchguard or another furniture protectant before bringing your pet home. It will spare you time, hassle, and money throughout the house training process. If your dog or cat develops a fondness for chewing on electronic cords and wires, invest in some bitter apple spray so you don’t have to replace adapters and chargers any more often than you otherwise would.
Grooming Kit
There is no perfect substitute for professional pet grooming, but you can supplement occasional sessions with baths and nail trims in your apartment’s pet spa or paw wash. A grooming kit should include nail scissors; grooming brushes; veterinarian-approved shampoo and toothpaste; and shears or clippers designed for use on pet hair. You can purchase a set or assemble your own.
Walking Kit
If you have a dog, a walking kit is a handy way to keep everything you need for walking your dog organized and in one place. Include a leash, harness or neck collar, waste pick-up bags, and a foldable water bowl. Depending on where you live, you may also want a set of rubber dog boots for walks in inclement weather.
Toys
When you’re training your puppy not to chew on or scratch your shoes, furniture, and other things lying around your apartment, it’s helpful to have toys on hand so your pet knows what he or she can play with. A good dog toy collection contains balls or other objects that can be fetched, a tug-of-war rope, squeaky toys, and puzzle toys. If you’re a cat owner, you’ll want to have balls, puzzle toys, a catnip toy, paper bags, and cardboard boxes.
Another toy to invest in: Dental chews and chew toys. They can keep a dog entertained, strengthen teeth and gums, and freshen breath. Choose a product that is durable and highly rated.
Treats
The most obvious item on this list: Treats! You’ll discover your furry friend’s favorites, but it’s always a good idea to have a variety on hand so you can change it up from day-to-day.
Lint Roller
Unless your pet doesn’t shed a hair, this one doesn’t need an explanation. You may want to keep lint rollers in your apartment, your car, and your handbag or briefcase.
Pet products can be costly, but high-quality pet essentials are vital to your pet’s well-being and your sanity. Thankfully, shopping around for them can be a nice change from your typical run to the grocery store or mall. Have fun, be picky, and choose wisely. It will all pay off in the long run. With the pet products taken care of, exercise, love, and positive attention are all your pet should need to lead a great life as an apartment resident.
What did we miss? Write about any pet products you think are must-haves by leaving a comment.
View All Posts by Jason Ernst