Downsizing and your pet
Are you thinking of downsizing but concerned about your pet? It’s natural to worry about how your cat or dog will adjust with a smaller space especially if they are used to a big backyard. Fear not, downsizing with the family pet doesn’t have to be stressful for you or your fluffy one.
With a little preparation and management, you can help your furry friend love your new home as much as you do. Here are our top tips to make the transition go as smoothly as possible.
Restrict outdoor activity
It is important you help your dog or cat adjust to living in an indoor space if you’re moving into an apartment. In the weeks before moving, limit their outdoor activity to times where you will be able to take them outside for a walk or play in the new home.
Do this gradually so they can ease into it. For example, you could leave them inside if you are going out to run a short errand or during the night when you sleep. Build and combine the times until your pet is spending no unsupervised time outside.
Remember cats more readily adapt to living indoors. If your cat needs a bit of enticing to stay inside, consider investing in a heated mat. Cats love a warm place to sleep.
In any case, try and start this well before the move so by the time your animal is in the new house, they will be used to being indoors.
Changing feeding routines
If your pet is used to being fed outside but in the new place needs to be fed inside, get them used to the change as soon as possible. Try to place their food and water bowls in similar locations to the new home such as in the laundry or bathroom.
Toilet train
If your pets are used to going outside to do their business but won’t be able to in the new home, start toilet training them in your current house.
Every time your dog needs to go to the toilet, put on their lead and take them for a walk. Your pooch will soon associate going to the toilet with leaving the house. Create a routine out of it as dogs feel secure with a familiar pattern.
Future indoor cats need to learn how to use a kitty litter tray. To get your feline friends used to the idea, provide several litter trays initially. You might need to try different types of litter until you find one that your cat likes.
Take your dog for more walks
If your pooch is used to a big space to romp around in and the new place has a small or no backyard, take them out for longer and more frequent walks. Dogs need regular exercise so besides dedicated walks why not start taking them with you when visiting friends, the shops or post office.
Find some dog friendly parks and off-leash areas in the local neighbourhood so your dog has a chance to run about unheeded.
Provide mental stimulation
If your pets are going to spend more time indoors or in a much smaller backyard, don’t let them get bored and potentially destructive in your home. There is a whole world of toys out there which will provide your pet with hours of fun and enjoyment.