Prepare Your Home for 7 Pet Personality Types
Bringing home a sweet little kitty or pup, or a longing-for-love adult rescue animal, for the first time is certainly a thrill. However, in all the fun and excitement of buying chew toys, kibble, and a mini (or maxi!) mattress, don't forget that you'll need to prepare your home in order to make it
Posted — Updated7 Cat or Dog Personalities:
- Jaws
Electronic wires and cables pose another chewable challenge to many kittens and puppies in the process of teething. Stow these out of range with the help of cord organizers (or use duct tape to fasten them to the wall if you absolutely must). BONUS TREAT: Neatening your cords will spruce up your home's appearance.
- The Shadow
- Escape Artist
If you plan to put in a special pet door, have it lead not just to the great outdoors, but rather to a secure, long, enclosed run.
- Gourmet
Pets often have surprisingly unpredictable tastes when it comes to what they'll try to nosh on. Don't think that because a previous four-footed friend turned up his or her nose at a certain food, your new guy or gal won't want to sample it.
- Explorer
Curious cats and daring dogs may try to explore your home's plumbing facilities, often in search of an after dinner drink. Eau de toilette is not the healthiest beverage, though, due to the presence of bacteria and poisonous harmful cleaning agents. There is also a chance that Bootsy or Bangles might fall in. Equip all toilet seats with lid locks, which will proclaim "Keep out!" more effectively than your scolding can. And make a dish of clean drinking water available at all times.
- Twinkletoes
You may love the look of freshly waxed natural hardwood flooring, but your intended pet might beg to differ. Slippery surfaces such as wood, laminate, linoleum, or ceramic tile floors can be frightening and even dangerous for dogs. If you'll be bringing home a skittish pup (especially a rescue dog with a traumatic background), consider covering up with rugs or other padding.
- Acrobat