subject: How To Have A Pet In A Small Apartment [print this page] I always grew up with a lot of pets in my house. Not only did we have four or five dogs at any given time, we also typically had over half a dozen cats--plus all of the "little critters." Those included rabbits, parakeets, parrots, gerbils, hamsters, and more.
But once I first moved to a dorm and then a string of small apartments, I was unable to enjoy the constant hustle and bustle of dogs running around and the clamor of screeching, barking, and squeaking. Believe it or not, it was all pleasant to me, and coming home to a silent apartment was rather nerve-wracking.
If you feel the same way, you may be wondering how you can remedy the sense of excessive quiet and the loneliness. So allow me to share with you a few tips on how to select an apartment or condominium-appropriate pet.
You will want to first consider animals that are small and easy to manage, especially if your complex has a no-pet policy. Most of those apartment communities still allow you some sorry of furry companion as long as they fit in a certain size cage or tank. Check with your landlord or Home Owners Association to find out what the specific rules are.
Well-socialized birds are a good option for many renters. After all, they can be handled and may even be trained to speak to you!
However, try to avoid very vocal birds, since you now have neighbors on every side of you. Large parrots like Macaws can be heard from a great distance, so for your own peace and the peace of those around you, don't go there.
Be aware that birds can also be somewhat messy, so before you make a selection, you need to decide if you are willing to clean up after them.
Many reptiles are pretty low-maintenance, but they do require a modest investment to make sure that you have all the correct equipment to take proper care of your lizard or snake. You will need a tank that is suitable for their size and specialty reptile lighting to keep them warm.
Before you bring home a scaly friend, make sure that you know precisely what to feed them and how often. I never had the stomach to drop a mouse (alive or dead) into a tank with a hungry snake, but hey, it's the circle of life, right?
Small mammals may require a little more attention, but gerbils, guinea pigs, hamsters, chinchillas, mice, rats, and rabbits are often a wise choice. Rabbits and chinchillas can be a little more on the "cuddly," end if they are socialized correctly, and most of these animals eat seeds and vegetables, so they may be easier to feed.
Having a pet in your apartment doesn't have to be excessively difficult. A lot of little critters need good homes, just like dogs and cats do. Just be aware of what you will need to get started and be committed to taking good care of the little creatures.
