Pet-Proofing a Small Apartment

Small spaces can concentrate hazards, making pet-proofing especially important in apartments. A thorough review of your space helps prevent accidents and gives you peace of mind. Here's a room-by-room approach.

General Hazards

Electrical

• Cords and cables: Secure, hide, or protect with covers
• Exposed outlets: Cover unused outlets if pets chew
• Charging cables: Put away when not in use
• Electronics: Keep secure and cables managed

Small Objects

• Hair ties, rubber bands (especially dangerous for cats)
• Small toys, game pieces
• Coins, buttons
• Jewelry
• Any item small enough to swallow

Chemicals and Substances

• Cleaning products (store in closed cabinets)
• Medications (keep in secure locations)
• Pesticides and pest control products
• Personal care products

Kitchen

Food Hazards

Many common foods are harmful to pets:

• Chocolate, caffeine
• Onions, garlic
• Grapes, raisins
• Xylitol (artificial sweetener)
• Alcohol
• Keep all food secured or out of reach

Kitchen Safety

• Secure trash cans (tip-proof lids or cabinets)
• Store knives and sharp objects safely
• Don't leave food on counters (especially with cats)
• Use stove guards if pets can reach stovetop
• Close dishwasher (residues can be harmful)

Living Areas

Furniture

• Secure tall furniture that could tip
• Check for gaps where pets could get stuck
• Cover or protect furniture you don't want damaged
• Remove or secure items on low tables

Windows and Balconies

• Windows: Secure screens, don't rely on them to stop falls
• Balconies: Enclose completely if pets have access
• Blinds: Secure cords (strangulation hazard)
• High windows: "High-rise syndrome" is real for cats

Plants

Many common houseplants are toxic to pets:

• Lilies (extremely dangerous to cats)
• Pothos, philodendron
• Aloe vera
• Many others—research each plant
• Either remove toxic plants or place completely out of reach

Bathroom

• Keep toilet lid closed (especially for small pets)
• Secure medications in closed cabinets
• Store cleaning products safely
• Keep razors out of reach
• Secure trash can

Bedroom

• Keep small items off nightstands
• Secure medications
• Check for gaps behind/under furniture
• Secure closet if chemicals or small items stored there

Entry and Common Areas

Escape Prevention

• Doors: Be aware when opening—quick pets can dash
• Training: Teach pets to wait at doors
• Baby gates: Create buffer zones if needed
• Collars and tags: Keep ID on pets in case of escape

Pet-Specific Considerations

Dogs

• Put away shoes and items they might chew
• Secure trash cans
• Keep food off counters and tables they can reach
• Crate or confine when unsupervised if they chew destructively

Cats

• Assume they can reach anywhere—secure accordingly
• Remove toxic plants entirely
• Secure string, yarn, ribbons (can cause serious internal damage)
• Check appliances before use (cats hide in warm places)