A Guide to Apartment-Living with Pets

Finding a Pet-Friendly Apartment

Use online platforms when you start looking for apartments to narrow your search for pet-friendly communities. It’s important to think about your pet’s personality and activity level and provide enough space for them to suit both of your needs.

Here are some ideas of what to look for in a pet-friendly apartment:

• Dog parks
• Indoor play areas
• Treat stations
• Wash stations
• Pet daycare

Apartment Pet Policies and Fees

Living in a community with onsite property management is beneficial, especially if you’re moving with a pet. They can provide information about deposits and monthly fees associated with having pets in your apartment. A pet deposit may be refunded when you move out if your animal hasn’t damaged anything. Some communities have breed and weight restrictions on pets, so do your research before applying for an apartment.

Tips for Living with a Pet in An Apartment

Create a Schedule

Having a designated time for your dog to eat, relieve themselves and play to give them structure and ease anxiety. Cats tend to their bathroom needs on their own but feed and play with them at the same time each day. That’s especially important when you first move to a new place, which could distress dogs and cats.

Keep Them Entertained

Boredom can lead to destructive behaviors in pets, especially if you leave them in your apartment for most of the day. Toys and bones are good for dogs and may prevent them from gnawing at household items. Try hiding treats around their sleeping area or crate to engage their scavenging instincts.

Climbing towers and scratch posts provide cats with stimulation. They can expend their energy in a designated space without clawing at your furniture or carpet. Try hiding their toys in different parts of your apartment as it supports their hunting tendencies.

Give Them Plenty of Exercise

Just like humans, animals need physical activity. Take your dog for a quick walk before you leave for the day to burn off some energy. Or explore your neighborhood in the evening and find local parks. Play with your cat at night to reduce the likelihood of early morning zoomies.

Preventing Pet Damage to Your Apartment

Pet-proofing your space reduces the risk of your animals damaging your apartment.

Here are some tips:

• Keep trash covered and put away.
• Store food in pantries or cabinets.
• Secure medication, chemicals, detergents and cleaners out of your pet’s reach.
• Remove toxic or poisonous vegetation if you’re growing plants in your apartment.
• Always close the toilet lid before.
• Declutter your apartment by moving electrical wires and furniture away from high-traffic areas.
• Document preexisting damage in your apartment to ensure you’re not responsible for repairs.

Cleaning an Apartment with a Pet

Living in an apartment with a pet requires upkeep, especially if they shed hair and dander. Vacuum at least once a week to prevent fur from accumulating on floors and furniture, especially if you brush your pet indoors.

Ask your property maintenance team about changing your air filter every few months to reduce dust and dander buildup. Wipe walls, floors and windows if your pet leaves drool, pawprints or nose marks.

Keep a lint roller handy to clean pet hair off upholstery. Have stain and odor removers on standby in case your pet has an accident.

Practice Good Pet Etiquette

Be a responsible apartment pet owner by following these suggestions:

• Always clean up after your pet relieves itself.
• Advise your neighbors of your pet’s temperament and how to interact with them.
• Address barking quickly to avoid disturbing your neighbors.
• Keep your dog leashed when you’re outside your apartment unless otherwise specified.
• Not all animals are social, so be mindful of other pets in your community.

Pet-Friendly Apartments in Columbus, Ohio

All Ardent Communities apartments are pet-friendly, and we offer various amenities to make you both feel at home. Some of our communities even have dog parks and special events just for pets.

Learn about our locations and contact us online to schedule a tour.