Ways to Keep Your Pet Occupied While You're at Work
Are you a pet owner worried about leaving your furry friend alone at home all day? Do you want to ensure your pet stays entertained and happy while you're away without causing significant stress to you or your wallet? Fear not! In this comprehensive guide, our team at Merry Maids® will cover everything you need to know about keeping your pet occupied while you're at work.
We'll share the latest trends and tips for providing enrichment to different types of pets and offer affordable and accessible solutions to common challenges.
What Causes Pet Boredom and How Can You Help?
Pet boredom is no joke, and if left unaddressed, it can cause a whole host of problems for both you and your pet. The consequences of leaving pets alone for an extended period can be dire, from excessive barking and destructive behavior to accidents in the house. One of the leading causes of pet boredom is a lack of stimulation and engagement. Therefore, finding ways to keep your pet busy and happy while you’re at work is crucial.
Use Engaging Puzzle Toys
Puzzle toys are one of the most effective ways to entertain your pet. Puzzle toys allow your pets to stay mentally stimulated while having fun and burning off energy. They come in different shapes and sizes and are suitable for different pets, such as dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds.
Some popular puzzle toys for pets include the following:
Purchase Interactive Feeding Bowls
Another excellent way to keep your pets engaged throughout the day is with interactive feeding bowls. Interactive bowls allow pets to work for their food, which can provide mental stimulation and physical activity. These types of feeding bowls are especially useful for dogs as they often enjoy the challenge of working for their food.
Some popular interactive feeding bowls for pets include the following:
Create a Comfortable Environment
If you're looking for a more low-key way to keep your pets entertained while you're at work, consider providing them with a comfortable space to relax. Cats, in particular, love to lounge in warm, sunny spots. Ensure your pets can access cozy beds, blankets, and safe spaces to retreat if they become overwhelmed.
How to Support Animals with Separation Anxiety
If your pet has separation anxiety, leaving them alone at home can be a stressful experience for them and you. Separation anxiety in pets can lead to excessive barking, destructive behavior, and bowel elimination inside the house, among other things. One way to combat separation anxiety is to create a comfortable space for your pet while you're away. A cozy bed, some familiar toys, and a piece of clothing with your scent can all help to ease your pet's anxiety.
Cost-Effective Ways to Avoid Lethargy and Boredom
Leaving your pet alone for long periods can lead to boredom and lethargy, which can be mentally and emotionally harmful for pets. However, there are many affordable ways to keep your pet occupied and happy while you're at work.
Simple things to keep your pet entertained and reduce boredom can include:
- Setting a timer on the radio or television so that it’s on for a limited time
- Strategically placing some toys around the house
- Hiring a dog walker or pet sitter
- Asking a trusted neighbor or friend to check on your pet periodically throughout the day
Keeping your pet occupied while you're at work can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Investing in puzzle toys, interactive feeding bowls, and creating a comfortable space for your pet can all help to ease their boredom and anxiety.
A Clean Environment Can Help Calm Your Pet
Being proactive about keeping your pet occupied while you’re away for a few hours or days will help ensure your space is intact, and your pet is happy. Our team at Merry Maids® offers detailed cleaning services to support your efforts to create a comfortable and relaxing environment that doesn’t exacerbate anxiety in your pet.
We also offer enhanced disinfection services to focus on high-touch surfaces and areas your pet frequents throughout the day to help maintain their health and safety.
Trust our team with your home’s cleanliness and organization by calling (888) 490-4227 today!
