Apartment living can be a unique challenge when it comes to pet ownership. The limited space and proximity to neighbors means you have to choose a pet that is comfortable with this type of environment.   When you choose the right one, having a pet in an apartment can bring so much joy and companionship, making your living space feel more like a home. This guide will explore the best pets to adopt if you’re living in an apartment.  Why People Seek the Company of Pets Pets offer more than just companionship; they provide emotional support, reduce stress, and can even improve your physical health. For many people, pets are a huge source of unconditional love and comfort. Here are some reasons why people might seek the company of pets:  Companionship – Pets can reduce feelings of loneliness, especially for those living in an apartment alone. Stress relief – Interacting with pets has been shown to lower blood pressure and reduce anxiety. Routine and responsibility – Caring for a pet provides a sense of purpose and helps establish a daily routine. Social interaction – Pets, especially dogs, can help their owners meet new people and build social connections. Mental health benefits – Pets can help improve symptoms of depression and other mental health issues by providing companionship and unconditional affection.  Finding Pet-Friendly Apartments Finding a pet-friendly apartment can be challenging, but resources like SpareRoom can make the search easier. SpareRoom is a roommate-matching website where you can filter your living preferences, including accommodations for pets. This will help you find compatible roommates who are open to living with pets. So whether you’re living in a small LA apartment or renting in NYC, you can find the perfect place for you and your furry, feathered, or scaly friend.   The Best Pets for Apartment Living If you live in an apartment but are thinking about adopting a pet, it's important to consider things like space, noise, and exercise. Here are some of the best pets that will be comfortable in an apartment setting.  1. Cats Cats are one of the most popular choices for apartment dwellers. These fur balls are independent, low-maintenance, and need less space compared to dogs. Here are some reasons why cats are great for apartments:  Size – Most cats are small and can feel comfortable in smaller living spaces. Litter training – You can train your cat to use a litter box, making them perfect for apartment living. okocat natural litter is a great choice for small spaces.  Quiet – Unlike dogs, cats are generally quiet animals, making them ideal if you live close to other people.  2. Small Dog Breeds While some dogs require large spaces and plenty of exercise, many small dog breeds are well-suited for apartment life. Some of the best small dog breeds for apartments include:  French Bulldogs – These dogs are known for their calm and friendly nature. They don't require a lot of exercise and are relatively quiet, which means they won’t upset the neighbors! Pugs – Pugs are affectionate and adapt well to apartments. They have a playful nature. Chihuahuas – These tiny dogs are full of personality and energy but can still get enough exercise within an apartment.  Maltipoo - Maltipoos are one of the best dogs for apartment living. Because of their poodle origins, they are easy to train and will listen to you easily. They have a wonderful playful personality. 3. Fish Fish can be a relaxing and low-maintenance pet option for apartments. An aquarium can also add a touch of tranquility and beauty to your living space. The benefits of adopting a fish include:  Minimal space requirement – An aquarium doesn't take up much space and can fit easily on a countertop or stand. Low noise – Fish are silent pets, making them perfect for apartments where noise levels need to be kept low. Calming effect – Watching fish swim can create a calming and stress-relieving environment.  4. Birds Birds are delightful pets that bring a splash of color to any apartment. Birds that do well in apartment settings include:  Budgerigars (Budgies) – These small, friendly birds are easy to care for. They also have a lot of personality, which means they can be quite entertaining. Canaries – Known for their beautiful singing, canaries are relatively low-maintenance and don't need a lot of space. Finches – These small birds are social and active, adding lively chirping to your apartment.  5. Small Animals Lots of small animals make excellent apartment pets due to their size and low maintenance requirements. Some good options include:  Hamsters – These small creatures are easy to care for and can be housed in a habitat. Just make sure its at least 650 sq ft. filled with lots of comfy carefresh bedding for burrowing.  Guinea Pigs – Guinea pigs are social animals that enjoy interaction so it's best to have two. They can live comfortably in a small enclosure but make sure it's at least 10.5 sq ft. Rabbits – While they require a bit more space, rabbits can be litter-trained and are generally quiet, making them suitable for apartments.  6. Reptiles Reptiles are fascinating pets that only need minimal space and maintenance. Some good choices for apartments include:  Geckos – These small lizards can live comfortably in a terrarium. Snakes – Many snake species, such as corn snakes, are easy to care for and don't need much space. Turtles – Turtles are quiet and can live in a tank, making them a good option for apartments.  Things to Consider When Living With Pets When adopting a pet for an apartment, there are a few things you need to consider:  Space – Make sure your apartment has enough space for the pet to move around comfortably. Noise – Be mindful of the noise levels your pet may produce, especially if you have close neighbors. Exercise – Make sure you can meet the exercise and activity needs of your pet, whether through indoor play or outdoor walks. Allergies – Consider any allergies you or your roommates may have before bringing a pet into your home. Building policies – Check your apartment building's pet policies to make sure you’re allowed to keep your chosen.   Conclusion  Pets can bring huge joy and companionship to your life. By choosing a pet that suits your living space and lifestyle, you can create a happy home environment. Whether you go for a cat, a small dog, a hamster, or even a fish, plenty of animals can thrive in an apartment setting.    

With the current climate crisis, many are adopting eco-conscious lifestyles to reduce their environmental footprint. As this movement gains momentum, we must learn how to extend these sustainable practices to all aspects of our lives – yes, that includes the well-being of our furballs.  In this article, we’ll explore the positive impact of incorporating sustainable practices into pet care and how these can improve pet wellness – showing that it’s not to boost the well-being of our environment, but also our pets.   Sustainable Practices That Improve Pet Wellness Ever wondered how you can practice sustainability while improving your pet’s health? Below, we’ll share some of the best practices to get yourself involved in: Using Eco-Friendly Pet Products Choosing eco-friendly products for our furry companions is one of the easiest and best ways to incorporate sustainability into our day-to-day lives.  Many companies now offer products that use sustainable packaging and other sustainably sourced materials. Before purchasing any pet product, it helps to read the product label to learn more about its source and the materials used to create the product.  Products such as biodegradable poop bags and toys made of recycled plastics are prime examples of eco-friendly pet products. Not only do they save our environment, but also they keep our pets clean and healthy. >>>Read more about paper vs plastic packaging Switching to Nutritious and Sustainable Diets Besides eco-friendly pet products, opting for a more sustainable diet for your pet is a brilliant way to go on our path toward sustainability. When choosing pet food, read the product label and identify if the product is made of ethically sourced ingredients with minimal environmental impact.  Your pet might like meat, but it’s also worth trying other protein-rich meals such as insect-based and plant-based proteins – these foods often have significantly smaller ecological footprint than traditional meat. About 20% of the world’s fish and meat is consumed by pets, so it isn’t just us humans who contribute to climate change. Meat-based agriculture has always been a significant driver of climate change, and choosing other diet alternatives is a great way to start.  In fact, your pets are getting more protein from insect-based alternatives. For every 100 grams of insect-based food, your pet consumes up to two times more protein. These diets are both sustainable and good for your pet’s health in the long run – switching up your pet’s diet is one way to do your part for the environment while keeping them strong and healthy. Engage in DIY and Upcycling Practices Instead of purchasing pet products, why not do things yourself? Try creating pet accessories and toys from repurposed materials. Not only do you make your pet happy,  but you also get to make a positive change in the environment.  Cardboard boxes, for instance, are readily available – and cats love them! They make for excellent toys, so a simple box can already be a lot of fun for these little ones. Design these boxes and stack them on top of each other, and you might see your pets climbing up the boxes in no time.  Truly, these DIY practices allow your creative juices to flow. Plus, your pets get to have fun and stay mentally healthy through play.  Additionally, you can upcycle everyday items such as old t-shirts or towels. These can then be transformed into pet beds or durable chew toys that your pets will love. It goes to show that sometimes what you need might just be right in front of you. Photo by 乐融 高 on Unsplash Use Natural and Chemical-Free Grooming Products Choosing natural and chemical-free grooming products is a great way to protect your pet from harsh chemicals while simultaneously safeguarding our environment from further harm. Flea and tick shampoos, for example, contain pesticides such as organophosphates and pyrethrins.  While these chemicals are effective in eliminating fleas and ticks, they pose significant environmental risks. When these chemicals are washed off, they end up in the wastewater. As a result of these chemicals leaching into the water supply, aquatic organisms can be affected by these toxic chemicals – disrupting the ecosystem balance and harming non-target species.  It cannot be emphasized enough – always read the product labels for possibly harmful ingredients. Choose products that indicate that the ingredients are environmentally friendly or biodegradable. Reduce Carbon Pawprint in All Ways Possible Other than the previously mentioned sustainable practices, there are still other ways to reduce your carbon pawprint. When taking your pets outdoors, walk or cycle instead of using a motor vehicle to reduce your carbon emissions.  If you’re fond of dressing up your pet, choose functional items like eco-friendly collars and other clothes made of sustainable materials to keep them comfortable.  Cat owners can also choose an eco-friendly cat litter to further reduce their carbon footprint. Opt for litter made from upcycled wood such as okocat natural litter.  Final Thoughts That wraps up our quick guide to the sustainable practices that improve your pet’s wellness! While the switch may be challenging for some, know that in the end, it will all be worthwhile – you get to do your role in protecting our environment while keeping your pets healthy.     

Now that most covid restrictions are over and many of us are returning back to the office or school, local humane and rescues have seen a big influx of small animals, including rabbits. By adopting a rabbit or two from a rescue, not only are you saving them, but the staff and volunteers there can be a huge help and a continual resource, especially if you are a new rabbit parent.  Rabbits can make great indoor pets and can free roam in your home with the right precautions. They are one of the most popular exotic pets and make adorable companions. But with unique care needs and behaviors, they’re definitely not the same as cats or dogs! They are definitely NOT a low maintenance pet and young children should have adult supervision at all times.  The volunteers and fosters will take the time to acclimate rabbits to living indoors and sometimes even litter box train them. Some rabbits that are surrendered have only spent time outdoors in hutches or other enclosure. Plus, rabbit rescues usually have a partnership with local vets who will spay or neuter them and also give them a complete health check.  Rescue staff and volunteers are very knowledgeable and can help you understand the behavior and needs of your rabbit will be essential to creating a rewarding, long-term relationship. Before leaving you on your own with your new companion, they will make sure you know how to properly care for your bunny. What you need to know before adopting rabbits 1. Rabbits are a great pet for small quarters like an apartment They don't take up a lot of space and don't need to go outside, plus they make very little noise, unlike a barking dog or cat that meows all the time. However, they do shed and they need brushing to prevent matting, and their nails trimmed every four to six weeks. The Holland Lop Rabbit has a 14-year lifespan, weighs only four pounds, with irresistible floppy ears, making this dwarf bunny the ultimate pet for city dwellers. 2. Rabbits live a long time = long-term commitment With proper care and diet and indoor living, rabbits can live 8-12 years or more, longer than most small animal pets. Before you adopt, make sure you are prepared to take care of them for many years as a companion.   3. Rabbits are social creatures Their habitat or living area should be in a quiet place but not too far from rest of the family. Rabbits are easily bored and need plenty of playtime and exercise with enrichment activities. If you can adopt a bonded pair of rabbits that is optimal so they have a companion at all times.  4. Rabbits need a large space and/or free roam with daily exercise  Even though they’re sold as complete rabbit “starter kits,” most pet store cages are not ideal. They are way too small to properly house a rabbit. You can easily make a large habitat from inexpensive materials. Two designs that cost about the same as an “extra large” pet store cage can be made from either a dog exercise pen or wire storage cubes. Either design provides three times the bunny space.If you are going to do free roam, it's very important to "bunny proof" your entire home or wherever they have access to. Bunnies LOVE to chew, and that means any exposed cords, cables and wires. Also remove any hazards like poisonous plants or anything else they shouldn't chew on like important books or papers. Be sure to put out plenty of litter boxes for them in corners if they are free roaming, especially when first starting to litter box train. Put a layer of carefresh bedding or carefresh rabbit litter followed by a fresh layer of hay. Read more on how to litter box train your rabbit.  5. Rabbits Need a High-Fiber Diet to Stay Healthy Rabbits should have unlimited access to a high-quality grass hay like Timothy or Orchard, at all times. Hay is essential for digestion and also help with their teeth. Fresh dark green leafy vegetables are also good, but only feed fruits and carrots in very small amounts.  A great resource is the House Rabbit Society’s article about diet, which discusses the appropriate amounts as well as types of food to give your rabbit from youth to old age. 6. Rabbits need regular Veterinary Care If your rabbit wasn't examined by the rescue or shelter, make sure to take them to a Vet right away. They should also have annual preventative care to ensure a long and healthy life. Read more about rabbit health from our Vet, Dr Ruth MacPete   Adopt Don't Shop! If you’ve done all your research and feel sure that you and your family can properly care for a bunny, please adopt a rabbit from a rescue or shelter instead of purchasing one from a breeder or pet store.     

Did you know that carefresh bedding is 100% biodegradable and compostable? carefresh is a made from scratch small pet paper bedding, which allows it to be returned from where it came—the earth! Not only are we committed to making sustainable products, but we also strive to produce minimal waste and help you do the same! Did you know that roughly 80% of the items buried in landfills in the United States could be recycled or composted? Landfills are one of the largest contributors to soil pollution. In the past when cleaning out a small pet’s home, it has been common to simply toss the old bedding into the trash. However, composting has recently become a great way to reduce household waste. Small pet parents who compost their old bedding can sleep better at night knowing that they are creating a smaller carbon footprint for your furry friend. How does it work? Organic waste will break down naturally if given enough access to oxygen, allowing microorganisms to feed on the organic materials, breaking it down into usable compost! This is called aerobic decomposition, organic materials converted to compost can be used as a soil amendment, improving the quality of your soil by adding essential plant nutrients. In landfills, waste lacks access to oxygen causing decomposition to take much longer and producing lots of greenhouse gasses like methane and takes up so much space! How do I start a home compost? If you are interested in starting a home composting system, do your research to find the right composting system for your home – there are tons of methods out there that will require different amounts of space and even work on your end. The basic principles of creating healthy compost are the same, it’s critical to practice good composting standards for optimal aerobic decomposition. This means stirring, turning, watering, checking the temperature, and covering your compost every few days. Make sure there isn’t too much of one type of organic material in your compost pile, you want an overall balanced content. Variety is the spice of life, and that holds true to your compost pile as well! It does take some effort but it’s well worth it in the end and after a few months, your compost will be ready to be used in your happy and healthy garden. If you have any questions or concerns regarding composting at home, we recommend checking your local ag regulations, reading more through the tips at EPA.gov, or checking your state regulations. Can I compost poo?  It depends. Many of the compost blends you can buy on the market will contain manure from animals like cows and horses. These animals are herbivores, meaning their waste will only contain plant matter and this creates amazing compost! So the rules of thumb for composting your pet’s waste is: herbivores only! Rabbit, guinea pig, or chinchilla feces are a great addition to your compost piles. Parents of omnivore or carnivore pets can still compost their excess carefresh bedding, but we recommend removing the solid waste from the used litter and properly disposing with the use of a biodegradable bag. The feces of any omnivorous or carnivorous animals may contain harmful bacteria and should NOT come in contact with anything edible. After removing any solid waste, you can safely compost the rest of the litter. Composting How-to: Place the droppings and used bedding on your compost heap, add some straw and mix it all together. Allow this to sit with other compostable items, turning the compost as needed to allow for proper aerobic decomposition. Each composting system has different requirements for turning and tending, so make sure to tailor these steps to your specific system. Depending on the size of your pile and your method of composting, it can take anywhere from two to six months for your compost to be ready to use and mixed into your garden. Important Tips for Success: Do not compost the waste of any animals who are ill, contagious, or taking medication, as these unwanted elements may wind up in your soil. Do not compost the feces of carnivores or omnivores Keep your compost pile balanced Don’t want to Start your Own Composting System? What if I don’t want to start a home compost, but don’t want to throw my excess bedding into the garbage? If you are not interested in creating your own home compost bin or don’t have the available space, you may be able to use a yard waste bin or simply bring your compostable materials to local farms or a nearby community garden. Be sure to ask first if they will accept compostable materials with pet waste and what the requirements are. Most waste management companies have a commercial composting facility, especially if you live in a larger town or city. If you are struggling to locate one, we simply recommend googling “composting facilities near me”, give them a call and ask: If they provide a waste-management bin and the times they pick up compost If they do not pick up, when and how your compostable materials can be dropped off Any regulations of what should/should not be included in your compost materials The cost associated with working the yard-waste management Any additional benefits they provide (such as finished compost at a reduced price).  So what are you waiting for? Start composting your used carefresh bedding today!    

Playtime and socializing are an essential part of being a small animal pet parent. As with everything when it comes to your new pets, start gradually. Once you’ve let your new furry friend adjust to their new home then you’re both ready to have some playtime! >>> Read more about getting a new small animal pet Whether you are going to just sit together and cuddle or let them roam a bit on their own, always make sure your space is ready and safe for playtime. Put away anything you don’t want your pets to get into or chew on like electrical cords, and keep loud noises to a minimum, close open windows and doors so they do not escape. When picking up your new pet, use both hands and be sure to support its bodyweight. Be gentle but firm, holding its feet against your body, and take care when you put it back down on the ground. Always supervise young children to make sure they are handling them gently. Have toys, tubes and a hidey place available to them, as well as a few small fresh treats. DO go slowly with socialization. Start with sitting beside them and letting them sniff you – once they get used to you, you can start to pet them and eventually pick them up. Try limiting initial handling to a few minutes at a time. DON’T ignore signs of distress. A scared bunny may cower, squeal or grunt and thump the ground with its feet, while a nervous guinea pig might wee on you, and a frightened hamster may try to bite. If your pet displays any of these behaviors, put them back in their habitat and try another time. Be patient and in no time they will be interacting and snuggling.   Tips for introducing companion pets Most small pets except hamsters are social and need a companion. In a perfect world, you would be adopting your rabbits or guinea pigs at the same time. The smoothest transition is likely with littermates, previously bonded pairs, or babies, but that may not always be an option. Neutered males and females often make great pairs, as does two females, but we would advise against more than one male cohabitating as they can become aggressive or compete for resources. When you bring your companion home, do not put them straight in your other pet’s habitat. Once again, it is very important to move forward gradually! Start by placing two habitats near each other so they can adjust to each other’s presence without feeling threatened. Allow them to swap scents by putting a bit of bedding from each habitat into the other. Then you can progress to physically introducing them in a neutral space, like a different room than they are used to or a playpen, without lots of distractions in the environment. Provide them with places to hide if they are nervous, but with two open ends so they don’t get cornered. And offer them some fresh veggies as a distraction and so they may associate positive feelings with each other. Keep these initial introductions supervised and short, around 15 minutes, you can gradually build up the duration as long as they remain happy together. At every step on this process, make sure to monitor their behavior closely! Look for signs your animal is happy. These are the clues you need to see to progress to the next step. Look for behaviors like grooming each other, squeaking to each other, sniffing each other, spending time close together and ‘popcorning’ for guinea pigs or binkies for rabbits. These are good signs! Don’t be alarmed if your rabbits try to mount or chase one another, this is to be expected and as long as the other doesn’t become aggressive they are ok. If your pets show no signs of aggression and have taken to each other, then you get the green light to allow cohabitation. Just make sure their habitat is large enough for two or more. The bigger the better!