Construction Works and Keeping Pets Happy

Imagine being a pet in the midst of construction works or renovation. One day you’re lazing around in your usual sunny spot by the window, and next you’re hearing banging, smelling strange paint smells, and watching strangers walk in and out of your garden. The sheer audacity!

You might not know exactly what’s going on, but you definitely don’t like it.

Your favourite digging spot in the garden now has fancy human plants, and you’ve been locked out of your usual comfy bedroom. Plus, your humans seem weirdly stressed and aren’t giving you the same attention you’re used to.

While renovation plans can be super exciting for you as a human, remember to keep your pets in mind too. Luckily, there are ways to make that Pinterest board of kitchen ideas come to life while keeping your pets happy and calm.

Here’s how.

1. Plan your construction works properly

You know your animals better than anyone else. So, the best person to keep pets happy during construction work is you.

Think about what your building work will entail and what your pet is like. That way you’ll have an idea of how they’ll react and where problem areas might be.

Think about the below questions, as a starting point:

• How long will construction work last?
• Where will work be happening and when?
• Can safe areas be blocked off and designated for your pet?
• How is your pet around strangers?
• Does your pet react badly to loud noises like bangs or thunder?
• Will your pet handle being in a crate or locked in a room?
• Is there someone around to spend time with your pet?
• If doors or gates are left open accidentally, will your pet stay put or are they likely to escape and run off?
• What other dangers may emerge from all the work materials and tradespeople?

Doing small renovations like a contained bathroom will be much less stressful on your pet than tearing out walls or replacing the entire flooring, for instance.

Use your knowledge to help plan what work you’ll do and in what order to keep your pet calm during construction work. Also find out more about how to keep pets safe during a pest treatment.

2. Protect them, even if they hate it

Even if you can’t manage to keep your pet happy during construction works, you have to keep them safe. That means taking whatever steps necessary to keep them secure. And out of harm’s way from things that can poison your pet like chemicals, and paint. As well as building hazards like falling bricks. You get the picture!

Cats, especially if they’re accustomed to being outdoors (read our outdoor vs indoor cat article), are used to coming and going on their own terms. If you’re planning on limiting that freedom, you might need to prepare for a bit of a temper tantrum.

But it’s not just cats. The same applies for any pet who isn’t using to having their movements being restricted. You may be in for crying, destruction, separation anxiety, barking, or other behaviours while the construction work takes place.

It’s difficult for any pet owner to see their pet stressed. And you should avoid it as much as possible. But your furkid’s safety should remain your top priority at all times.

If there’s any risk of them getting hurt or escaping during construction work, your biggest responsibility is to protect them. Even if it means a bit of dissatisfaction in the short term.

3. Construction works safe spaces

If possible, set up a dedicated space to keep your pet calm during construction works. This could be a bedroom, bathroom, or even a garage. If you’ve crate trained your dog, it could be a crate too.

Try to pick somewhere which is away from the noise and where your pet won’t be disturbed by strangers walking past every five minutes. Make it a safe little den complete with food, water, toys, treats, a bed, and a litter tray if needed.

If your dog or cat is the anxious type, some of these calming products might help:

• Pheromone sprays
• Thunder shirts, weighted vests, or blankets
• Calmers or anxiety medication (to be prescribed or recommended by a vet)
• Cosy spaces to hide like perches, cardboard boxes, crates, or spaces under a desk or similar

If it’s not working out, you might have to consider removing your pet from the situation entirely.

4. Send them on holiday

If your furkid is getting too stressed out, or you have really extensive renovations going on, you might have to give them a break.

Check out our article on kennels vs pet sitters to decide what holiday pet care would suit your pet best. You might decide that a doggy daycare during the day is a good option, or you might want to check them into a kennel or cattery. Or maybe you have a willing family member or friend who your pets can stay with for a bit while you get the construction works finished distraction-free.

If your pet tends to get nervous or anxious, a little holiday might be the best option for your peace of mind and their comfort. But as always, you know best! Decide what will work for you pet.

5. Give them time to adapt

Once you’ve got your brand spanking new house, kitchen, bathroom, or whatever else, keep in mind that your pet might need time to adapt. Of course, this depends on how extensive your construction works were.

If you changed a lot, things will likely feel, sound, and smell different to your pet. Let them explore the new home as if they’ve just moved in. Which they have, sort of!

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• If there are new entrances and exits, show your pet by walking them through them and encourage them to do the same with you beside them.
• Be clear and consistent about training them if they’re no longer allowed in certain areas of on new furniture. They don’t understand the difference, so be patient.
• Keep their food and bedding in the same place that they’ve always been in. At least initially. You can always move them once your pet is completely at home in their renovated space.

Remember to be present with your pet during construction works

For many pets, the most comforting thing in their temporary home will be you. So if they haven’t gone away on a little all-expenses paid vacation, make sure you remain calm and collected in their presence.

Stick to their usual schedule as much as possible, including meal times, play, and exercise. And make sure to give them plenty of love and reassurance.

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