10 Genius Pet Friendly Apartment Upgrades That Renters Can Actually Use
Living in an apartment with pets brings its share of joys—and challenges. Whether you’re juggling dog walks in stairwells, litter boxes in tight corners, or scratched door frames, making your space more pet friendly can feel like a constant trade-off. But it doesn’t have to be. With a few smart upgrades that are affordable, reversible, and completely renter-safe, you can dramatically improve your apartment’s function and comfort for both you and your furry companions. These genius pet friendly apartment upgrades help solve common space, noise, safety, and mess issues without damaging walls or risking your security deposit.
1. Install Renter-Friendly Wall Bumpers and Scratch Shields
Pets are notorious for rubbing, scratching, or leaning against walls—especially in high-traffic spots like entryways, food areas, and near doors. Wall bumpers and clear scratch shields protect paint and drywall from claws, drool, and tail thumps without damaging the surface underneath. Look for options that use removable adhesive or static cling. These are particularly helpful for cats who scratch near litter box areas and dogs that jump when they hear someone at the door. For added aesthetic, some peel-and-stick versions even come in woodgrain or decorative patterns to blend in with your walls.
2. Use Modular Baby Gates or Freestanding Pet Barriers
One of the easiest pet friendly apartment upgrades is controlling your pet’s access—without damaging your door frames. Pressure-mounted baby gates or freestanding pet barriers are ideal for renters because they don’t require screws or permanent fixtures. Use them to block off unsafe rooms, keep pets away from litter boxes during cleaning, or prevent door dashing when guests arrive. Some versions are foldable and stylish enough to blend into apartment décor. You can even use them as makeshift playpens or enclosures for nervous pets when maintenance workers or visitors come by.
3. Add a Window Cling or Safety Latch for Pet Viewing Stations
Pets love watching the world outside—but windows can pose serious fall and safety risks, especially in high-rise apartments. Install a removable window safety latch or clear window cling barrier to help prevent accidents. These upgrades are especially important for cats and small dogs that like to jump onto sills or lean against screenless openings. A product like the Jackloc window safety system can help you secure even older windows without drilling. Combine it with a cozy mat or cat hammock for an instant enrichment zone your pet will love.
4. Upgrade to a Covered Litter Box Cabinet or Hidden Enclosure
Let’s face it—litter boxes can be an eyesore, especially in small apartments where you don’t have a utility room to tuck them away. That’s where a covered litter box cabinet or furniture-style enclosure becomes one of the smartest pet friendly apartment upgrades. These units disguise the litter area as a bench, side table, or console, helping reduce odor and mess while blending into your living space. Some models even come with built-in mats that trap litter. Bonus: they keep curious dogs out and offer shy cats extra privacy. Just make sure the airflow and access meet your cat’s needs.
5. Choose Stackable Storage Bins for Pet Supplies
Toys, leashes, treats, brushes, grooming gear—pet supplies multiply fast. Stackable bins and rolling drawers are an apartment lifesaver, giving you vertical storage without the need to install shelves or buy bulky furniture. Look for units with transparent sides so you can quickly spot what you need. Some owners even dedicate an entire closet or entryway nook to labeled bins for each pet category. Keeping things neat not only helps declutter your apartment—it also prevents accidental access to items your pet shouldn’t chew or eat. For extra safety, choose bins with locking lids or slide them into a closed cabinet.
6. Use Carpet Tiles or Washable Rugs in High-Traffic Zones
If your pet has accidents, tracks in mud, or loves to flop in the hallway after walks, you know how quickly your flooring can take a hit. Carpet tiles and machine-washable rugs are excellent renter-friendly solutions. Peel-and-stick tiles can be replaced one square at a time, making them ideal for litter areas, food stations, or accident-prone zones. Washable runners placed under water bowls or crates help absorb mess and reduce long-term damage to the apartment’s flooring. Just avoid adhesive materials that may pull up laminate or tile when removed.
7. Set Up a Noise-Buffering Crate Zone or Hideaway
City apartments can be noisy—from neighbors slamming doors to hallway foot traffic or street sounds. Pets, especially dogs with anxiety or cats sensitive to sudden noise, benefit from a cozy hideaway to retreat to when overwhelmed. One of the most effective pet friendly apartment upgrades is creating a buffered crate nook using sound-absorbing panels, heavy curtains, or even padded closet space. Line the crate with soft bedding and include a few favorite toys. If your dog or cat already uses a carrier or crate, enhance it with a cover and set it up in a quiet area of the apartment. This simple modification can prevent barking, stress, and nervous pacing during thunderstorms or fireworks.
8. Anchor Pet Furniture with Anti-Tip Grips
Cats scaling tall towers or dogs jumping into beds can easily topple lightweight furniture if it’s not stabilized. Use anti-tip furniture anchors or heavy-duty gripping pads to secure shelves, pet towers, and feeding stations—especially if you live in a building with vibrations from nearby units. These tools are renter-safe and remove cleanly when you move out. They also help prevent damage to your walls and baseboards by stopping furniture from shifting or sliding across slick floors. Bonus: stabilized pet furniture also prevents loud crashes that might annoy downstairs neighbors.
9. Add Pet-Safe Window Perches or Hammocks
One of the simplest ways to enrich an indoor pet’s life is by giving them a view. Window perches or hammocks that attach with suction cups or tension rods allow cats (and small dogs) to sunbathe, watch birds, and mentally engage with the world outside. These upgrades don’t require screws or drilling, and many fold flat when not in use. Just make sure your windows are secure—if you’re on a higher floor, combine them with a safety latch or mesh guard like those from Jackloc to prevent falls. A comfortable perch with a fleece mat can help reduce boredom, anxiety, and even destructive behaviors.
10. Use Multi-Purpose Crates, Carriers, and Furniture
In small apartments, dual-purpose items are everything. A crate that doubles as a side table, or a pet carrier that slides under the bed, can give you major space savings. Look for airline-approved soft crates, collapsible carriers, or modern furniture-style crates from retailers like Petsense. These can serve as sleeping areas, travel gear, or safety zones during emergencies. If your pet enjoys cozy nooks, consider replacing a standard end table with one that features a pet-safe interior. It's one of the smartest pet friendly apartment upgrades you can make—function meets comfort, without compromising style.
Final Thoughts
Apartment living doesn’t mean compromising your pet’s safety, comfort, or happiness. With these renter-safe pet friendly apartment upgrades, you can create a calm, functional space that works for both you and your furry roommates. From vertical storage and scratch protection to clever furniture and noise-buffering zones, every small improvement adds up. Better yet, most of these upgrades are budget-friendly, removable, and designed to make your landlord just as happy as your pet. Whether you’re in a studio or a two-bedroom, thoughtful upgrades turn your apartment into a pet paradise—no backyard required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best pet friendly apartment upgrades for renters on a budget?
Start with affordable, non-permanent options like window perches, removable scratch guards, stackable storage bins, and washable rugs. You can also use peel-and-stick wall bumpers or soft crate covers to protect your space without spending a fortune.
Are these upgrades safe for security deposits?
Yes—every tip in this article uses renter-safe materials and requires no drilling or permanent installation. Many products are peel-and-stick, tension-mounted, or freestanding, meaning they leave no damage behind when removed properly.
How do I pet proof a rental apartment without making it ugly?
Opt for stylish, neutral-toned accessories and multi-functional furniture. Products like hidden litter box cabinets, wooden crate tables, or scratch-resistant rugs offer function without sacrificing décor. Decorative barriers and storage upgrades blend easily with most interiors.
What’s the safest way to let pets enjoy the windows in a high-rise apartment?
Install a safety latch or use a product like the Jackloc system to prevent window falls. Pair it with a suction-cup perch or padded sill bed so your pet can enjoy the view safely.
Can these upgrades help with pet anxiety in apartments?
Absolutely. Noise-buffering crate zones, window hammocks, and designated quiet areas help pets feel secure. Routine, privacy, and enrichment all play a role in easing anxiety—especially in small spaces with outside stimuli like hallway noise or traffic.
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