Living in a small space doesn’t mean that there’s no room for Fido.
According to an annual survey conducted by the Pet Products Manufacturers Association, 63 percent of U.S. households own a cat, dog, bird, horse, fish, reptile, or small animal. For people considering pet ownership, the size of their home often factors into their decision. But it shouldn’t be the only concern.
“What really matters is a combination of lifestyle and space,” said Katie Flory, volunteer foster manager at the Maryland SPCA. “I live in a townhouse with a Rottweiler and a bulldog — there are 200 pounds of dog in my house.”
The key to a strong human-animal bond, Flory said, is providing adequate exercise and attention to whichever type of animal you choose to share your home. For canine companions, that means lots of walks and trips to the dog park. But living in a small home doesn’t necessitate choosing a small breed.
“A Great Dane doesn’t need much space or exercise,” said Jennifer Mead, executive director of the Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter. “They’re low-key and do very well in small spaces.”
Cats are a great choice for smaller spaces, but still require a lot of attention, Flory said. That includes feeding them and cleaning kitty litter daily, but also spending time playing with them.
“They need lots of enrichment, things they can toss around,” said Mead.
Mead’s favorite cat toys include catnip mice and toys that allow people to interact with their cat, such as feathers or cloth on a long stick. She also suggests scratching posts for training purposes and climbing structures.
“Single cats can be happy, but I recommend two because it gives them a bit more of a life with socialization,” Mead said. “I had one cat for a while and she was happy, but when I got my second cat it was great to watch them cuddle and clean each other and interact together as cats.”
If you’re not ready for a lifelong commitment — or want to see if you are — Flory suggested becoming a foster volunteer. Foster volunteers keep kittens until they’re eight weeks old and can be adopted out.
“You don’t need a lot of space, and you get to spend some time with kitties,” Flory said.
Maryland SPCA
3300 Falls Road, Baltimore
410-235-8826, www.mdspca.org
