The Ultimate Guide to Pet-Proofing Your Home
Pets make life more fun. But they also require preparation. Pet-proofing protects your possessions. And it keeps your pet safe.
Follow this guide to pet-proof each room!
Living Room Pet-Proofing
Start with the living room. This is where your pet will spend lots of time. Clear breakable items off low shelves. Pets can knock things over with their tails. Remove dangling cords from the blinds. Pets can get tangled in these.
Cover furniture with blankets. Pet claws can damage the fabric. Use scratching posts. These divert scratching away from the furniture. Hide loose items like remote controls. Pets will chew these.
Kitchen Pet-Proofing
The kitchen holds many dangers for pets. Keep the trash can locked. Pets will get into and eat garbage. Store food in chew-proof containers. Open bags and boxes tempt pets.
Keep appliances unplugged when not in use. Pets may chew on electrical cords. Install child locks on lower cabinets. Curious pets will otherwise open them.
Place mats under food and water dishes. These catch spills. Mop the floor regularly. Pets track in dirt and germs. Discard moldy or spoiled human food promptly. It can make pets very sick if eaten.
Bedroom Pet-Proofing
The bedroom is your pet's home base. Make sure they are secure here. Cover electrical outlets. Pets may stick their noses in and get shocked. Use cord organizers to contain loose plugs and wires. Pets can chew on these.
Pick up clothing items from the floor. Pets may swallow small pieces. Close closet doors. Pets can get trapped inside. Place fragile items up high. Pets can knock them down.
Bathroom Pet-Proofing
Bathrooms contain lots of dangers for pets. Shut the toilet lid. Pets can fall in or drink unsanitary water. Keep medications and cleaners locked away. Pets should not ingest these.
Place rubber mats in the tub. These provide traction. Adjust water temperature before bathing your pet. Ensure it is a safe temp. Store grooming supplies someplace secure. Pets can knock them over and hurt themselves.
Outdoor Pet-Proofing
Pet-proofing extends beyond the home. Check your yard for hazards. Look for sharp objects, toxic plants, and poisonous chemicals. Remove these immediately.
Set up boundaries on your property. Fences keep pets secure. Provide shelter from weather extremes. Pets need shade and warmth.
Monitor for critters like mice or bees. These can sting or bite your pet. Eliminate standing water. It breeds dangerous mosquitos. Ensure your pet always wears ID tags. This helps bring them home if lost.
Pet-Proofing Supplies
Gather useful pet-proofing supplies:
- Child locks
- Cord covers
- ID tags
- Furniture covers
- Pet gates
- Electric outlet covers
- Scratching posts
- Rubber mats
- Shelves
- Pet beds
- Litter boxes
- Chew toys
- Treat pouches
Takeaway
Pet-proofing is ongoing. Review your home regularly. Look for new risks as your pet ages. Introduce hazards slowly to train your pet. Reward wanted behaviors.
Pet-proofing takes some work. But it is worth it. Your home stays nicer longer. Most importantly, your pet stays safe and healthy. Pet-proofing brings everyone peace of mind. It helps make a happy home.