Landlords and leases can become the bane of a pet lover’s existence, but just because your apartment rules out big-breed dogs and maybe even cats doesn’t mean you can’t bring a pet home. In this article, we’re going to look at a few pets who can thrive in smaller, stricter apartments so you can find the companion that’s right for you. Let’s get started!
Some Dogs
Often the most-desired and the least welcome pets in apartments are dogs — especially big ones. Whether it’s a fear that big dogs will scratch up the floors and walls or that irresponsible owners won’t let their pets out in time, getting a dog into an apartment can be an uphill battle.
Typically, so-called “aggressive” breeds are not allowed, often including pit bulls, Rottweilers, Akitas, German shepherds, and so on. The other factor is weight. Even rowdy small dogs tend to be pretty harmless and won’t scratch up surfaces like a 70-pound husky would. Puppies, of course, are quite messy and are often not allowed.
So, what does that leave you with? Small- to medium-sized dogs that aren’t included on aggressive breed lists and aren’t puppies. This might include pugs, bulldogs, beagles, Yorkshire terriers, and a well-trained retriever or lab! Take your apartment’s restricted breed list to a pet rescue and see if you can brighten up a dog’s life.
Most Cats
Cats are an ideal pet for small spaces — primarily because the space isn’t all that small to them. They’ll find nooks to explore, structures to climb, and plenty of fun things to play with and chase. But that doesn’t mean all cats will be a good fit for a small apartment.
Some cat breeds are more amenable to small, quiet spaces than others. For instance, there are some very vocal cat breeds like the Siamese which will howl if you’re gone too long. Then there are bigger and more energetic cats like the Bengal, which need more stimulation to be happy.
Check if there are any breed restrictions for cats in your lease as well as if there are stipulations about being spayed or neutered. Also, remember that your cat needs things to do while you’re away! Window perches, climbing towers, scratching posts, and toys can really help brighten their day.
Gerbils and Guinea Pigs
Much lower maintenance than cats and dogs, gerbils and guinea pigs are great companions in small spaces! As for gerbils, it’s important to know that these social pets need to have a friend, so adopt in pairs. They’re playful, cute, and more amenable to being picked up than hamsters. To avoid having a lot of gerbil babies, it’s best to adopt two males or two females. While they’re known for being a bit messy, it’s nothing a regular cage cleaning can’t take care of!
Guinea Pigs are a similar story. They’re also social are are happiest with a same-sex friend to hang out with. However, they need vertical cages with a few floors rather than horizontal cages. With a big enclosure and lots of snacks and toys, gerbils will be very happy and very cuddly small-apartment pets!
Rabbits
You’ll want to look closely at your lease for this one, but for the most part, if an apartment complex allows big dogs, they’re likely to make an exception for a rabbit too. If it isn’t listed specifically, just send an email or ask the leasing office to make sure! After all, rabbits are wonderful little social pets that you can really form a bond with.
But there are unique considerations for rabbits. First off, some rabbit breeds can be housetrained with a litter box and hop around the apartment freely. But since they’re natural chewers, you absolutely must ensure that all wires are bunny-proofed. That means covered, picked up, and definitely unplugged. Otherwise, your rabbit will chew through them and possibly get electrocuted.
Fish and Reptiles
While you’ll want to check in with your leasing office to see if more unique pets like large-tank fish and reptiles are allowed, these are, for the right owners, ideal small apartment pets. Reptiles are happy sunbathing and hunting in their tanks, and fish are famously low maintenance so long as their water temperature, quality, and food needs are met.
That said, there’s a big difference between a python and a leopard gecko. Smaller reptiles that flourish in small to medium tanks will probably be best for a studio apartment. If you work long hours, many reptile and fish owners are glad to know that separation anxiety isn’t as much of an issue as it would be with cats or dogs. If you’re the type of person who loves these scaly, unique pets, then there are plenty of options to bring them into your studio apartment!
Help a Pet, Help Yourself
Pets are remarkable at keeping us healthy — they get us off the couch, give us plenty of love, and bring us so much joy. If you’re an animal lover, you may benefit from an emotional support animal or exploring animal-assisted therapy. I’d be happy to give you more information. Feel free to read more here or contact me!