Owning a pet is a rewarding experience, but it also comes with responsibilities that keep both your home and pet safe and happy. Establishing house rules is essential for maintaining discipline, preventing destructive behaviour, and promoting the wellbeing of your furry friend.

The importance of setting house rules

Setting rules for pets is crucial from the moment you bring them into your home. Clear boundaries help your animals understand what is expected of them, which in turn reduces stress and anxiety for both them and the owner.

Fitted furniture experts, Hammonds, surveyed 2,000 Brits on their pet’s at-home behaviour and discovered some relaxed habits when it comes to house rules.

Restricted areas

One of the first steps in pet-proofing the home is designating restricted areas. This helps in keeping certain parts of your home clean and safe from potential damage.

Common restrictions might include:

• Bedrooms and bathrooms: These rooms often contain items that could be hazardous to pets, such as medicines, cosmetics, and small objects that could be swallowed.
• Kitchens: Keeping pets out of the kitchen prevents them from accessing food that might be harmful and avoids the risk of them being accidentally stepped on or getting burned.
• Furniture: If you want to preserve your furniture, make certain pieces off-limits to discourage scratches and fur accumulation.

To enforce these boundaries, consider using baby gates or closed doors and provide comfortable, pet-friendly alternatives like designated pet beds or play areas.

However, 51% of people surveyed said they let their pets sleep on living room chairs and sofas. Hammonds found that women are more lenient when it comes to allowing animals on the furniture.

Feeding schedules

Maintaining a consistent feeding schedule is beneficial for your pet’s health and behaviour. Regular feeding times help regulate their metabolism and digestive system, and they also reduce begging during family meals. It’s important to consider the following:

• Consistency: Feed your pets at the same times every day. Most adult dogs and cats do well with two meals per day.
• Quality: Invest in high-quality food that meets their nutritional needs.
• Portion control: Avoid overfeeding by measuring portions according to your pet’s size, age, and activity level. Consult your vet for specific dietary recommendations.

Many pet owners may let these rules slip, though. Hammonds found that 22% of people admit to sharing their food with their animals, with 11% letting their pets lick their plates clean.

Outdoor time

Spending time outside is vital for the physical and mental health of pets, especially dogs. However, it must be managed carefully to ensure their safety.

Outdoor time provides ample opportunities for exercise. Dogs need regular walks and play, while cats might benefit from a secure outdoor space or supervised outings on a lead.

You should always supervise pets while they are outside to prevent accidents and ensure they do not wander off.

Grooming and cleanliness

Regular grooming and cleanliness practices are essential to keep your pet healthy and your home clean. These include the following:

• Bathing and brushing: Depending on the breed, regular bathing and brushing can prevent matting and reduce shedding.
• Nail trimming: Keep your pet’s nails trimmed to avoid injuries and damage to floors and furniture.
• Litter boxes and toilet time: Clean litter boxes daily and take dogs outside frequently to prevent accidents indoors.

However, standard cleanliness may fall through the cracks in some households. Hammonds found that 41% of people let their pets sleep in their beds, and 20% bathe their pets in the family bathtub.

By adhering to house rules, you can create a safe, happy and healthy environment for your animals. But, doing what works for you and your family is the best way to manage your household – if that means the pets get to lounge around the house, let them!