Rules of Having a Pet when You Have a Roommate

Chances are you won't get rid of your pet if there's problems, but you could easily lose your roommate. Having a roommate and a pet can be as easy or as difficult as you choose to make it. Following some tips can make the roommate and pet situation as easy as possible so everyone can live happily together.

Clean Any Pet Messes

The obvious messes, such as if the pet gets physically ill or goes to the bathroom on the floor, need cleaning however, so does pet hair. Not many people enjoy leaving the house and having pet hair on their clothes or going to eat a meal and finding a stray hair on the fork. Make an effort to clean fur or any other type of pet messes that occur in order to avoid annoying or upsetting your roommate.

Keep the Pet's Area Clean

Uncleaned pet areas, such as beds or cages, aren't very pleasing to look at nor are they pleasant to smell if they remain uncleaned for a long enough time. Keep the pet's area as clean as possible to avoid any unwanted messes or odors. If possible, keep the pet cage or main sleeping area in your room to avoid certain problems. In addition, leave any toys, food or accessories in a proper place to avoid them being all over the living area.

Don't Take Advantage

Having a roommate does not mean you have a live in sitter or housekeeper for your pet. Your pet is your responsibility, which means that unless it is an absolute emergency, for example, you typically feed your cat at 5 p.m. but won't get home from work until 9 p.m., then you should deal with anything that your pet needs. If you need a favor in advance involving your pet, such as if you're going on vacation or if you know you have an all day event, it is important to request your roommate's help as far in advance as possible.

Replace Damaged Goods

If your pet somehow ruins something of your roommate's, make sure you replace it as soon as possible. While there are exceptions to the rule, chances are it will be your responsibility to replace the item with the same item or in monetary compensation. Make sure to also apologize profusely and assure your roommate that it won't happen again.

Having a roommate and a pet can work harmoniously if you consider that you are living with another person that deserves to feel respected in the space. Losing a roommate can be a hassle and be an even bigger problem if you are good friends. Chances are your friendship is just as important as your pet, so it is important to consider both when you have people and pets living under the same roof.