Living the high life has a new meaning for pet parents in multi-storey buildings. Because that dreamy balcony with a to-die-for view (figuratively, please đ) can bring more drama than a Mission Impossible cliffhanger when Fluffy & Fido channel their inner daredevils. But there's no need for alarm! You can hit pause on those heart-stopping stunts with our practical guide to pet-proofing your balcony.
Pet-friendly balcony ideas
From fall prevention to entertainment, here's how to create a secure and stimulating retreat where your pet can bask in the sun and survey the sights belowâall nine lives intact!
Balcony boundaries
Before anything else, let's tackle balcony safeguards in tall buildings. (We wouldn't want your furry friend falling victim to high-rise syndrome, especially during the warm summer months. đ)
- Enclose the balcony with chew-resistant cat netting or metal mesh.
- Don't forget to fill in the gaps between railings!
- If your pet has destructive tendencies, add a second layer of safetyâa shield for the nettingâwith bamboo fencing.
These enhancements help prevent pets from getting stuck between railings or free falling.
Pro tip: For those seeking a more polished aesthetic and unrestricted views, plexiglass panels are a robust alternative to balcony nets for cats.
Window watch
Window guards prevent our children from accidentally falling out, but they're no match for curious kitties and playful pups! Beef up your window game with the following strategies instead.
- Install heavy-duty window screens. They keep pets in and mozzies out. đ
- Affix fencing for tilt-and-turn windows. They're a death trap for cats (in more ways than one) without them!
- Choose plantation shutters or electric blinds. Theyâre durable, cordless, and harder for cats to climb.
Pro tip: Move furniture away from windows and avoid feeding wildlife from your windowsillsâthey can trigger your pet's prey drive, which may result in accidents.
Safe storage
"Sky diving" is the most common concern, but other balcony hazards need pet-proofing, too. Here are a few reminders.
- Conceal electrical cables. These are trip hazards for everyone. You also don't want your cute pup chewing on them!
- Clear dangerous clutter. Store BBQ equipment, gardening tools, and chemicals in a secure container or outdoor cabinet.
- Prevent accidental poisoning by switching to non-toxic enzymatic products like Urine Stain & Odour Remover and this turf-cleaning bundle. They won't disappoint.
Pro tip: Maximize limited balcony space with multipurpose, multi-storage options.
Creature comforts
So, your balcony is an escape-proof, sun-soaked retreat. How do you get a feature in Barkitectural Digest? đ We have suggestions for a pawsome paradise.
- Start with an all-season doggy bed or machine-washable blanket for Fido!
- Greenify your balcony with pet-friendly plants and artificial grass. (It's great for potty trainingâsaves you from midnight elevator ridesâ and is a convenient solution when you can't manage regular walkies. Hereâs how to maintain potty patches.)
- Quench your pet's thirst with a no-flip, non-spill water bowl replenished with fresh, cool water. If you have slatted balcony flooring, you may want to place it on the Grubby Paw Feeding Matâjust in case! I mean, you wouldn't want to soak the downstairs neighbours...
Pro tip: Don't forget to use a dog cooling bandana during the sizzling summer months, and set up a sturdy umbrella for shade.
Playtime perch
Life would be boring without entertainment. Enter safe and innovative ways to have funâon your balcony. Bonus points for mental stimulation!
- Build an interactive kitty playground. You'll find tons of inspiration online.
- Have a wide assortment of toys handy for your fur babies: Chew toys, brain games, and other self-play toys for variety.
- Pups love sunbathing and splashing around on scorching days. If you have space and the building allows it, get a portable doggy pool for your balcony! (This is only sensible if you have somewhere to drain the water.)
Pro tip: If you're not confident about your MacGyver skills, hire specialists to help build your pet's balcony playground.
Supervision
Finally, keep your furry friends safe with good old-fashioned supervision. Shut balcony doors and windows when you're out. And don't leave pets unattended on balconies or terraces.
With balconies pet-proofed to perfection, there will be no more auditioning for feline/canine action moviesâjust pure, undisturbed leisure and a peaceful spot for those serene afternoon naps. So, here's to living the high life, where the only drama is deciding who gets the best seat for sunset gazing! đ»
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