If you work remotely, then you probably want no one and nothing to distract you. But, it’s impossible to explain to the pet that the owner is busy, and most likely the furry friend will demand attention because we are very similar to our pets and vice versa.
However, this situation has its big advantages, as you will be able to spend more time with your beloved pet. Also, it has been scientifically proven that the presence of animals has a beneficial effect on the psychological state of the owners. Animals are a kind of anti-stress for us and can brighten up the workflow.
In addition, you can get to know your four-legged friend better, observe its habits, and preferences and take care of it in case of illness.
Next, we’ll look at some tips on how to organize the work process from home and distract your pet.
How to work from home with a cat?
Cats are nocturnal animals, so their peak activity occurs at night. During the day, the pet will probably doze off, sitting in its favorite cat bed.
However, some pets prefer to take a warm place near the owner, in particular — a computer keyboard. Sometimes it’s difficult to drive a pet out of a cozy place. So, let’s imagine that, for example, your Himalayan cat adores to occupy your keyboard while you are trying to work. There is a way out: put a cat bed next to the computer, so the cat can watch what you’re doing, and also take a nap next to the heat source.
But what if an energetic pet demands attention and wants to play, but you don’t have time for this? In this case, pick up an interesting activity for it so that your beloved pet leaves you alone, allowing you to calmly finish all the work.
- Observation post
Cats love to look at what is happening outside the window. So, create an observation post for your pet’s pleasure. However, take all safety measures beforehand: close the windows, or make sure they’re equipped with safety nets. You can place a hammock over the windowsill from which the cat will observe the exciting life outside the house. And if it likes to watch how you work from a height, buy a cat house, equipped with a hammock and a bed. You can also be creative and build a cat house yourself from improvised materials.
- Interactive entertainment
Interactive toys are labyrinths and tracks with balls, complete with sound effects. You can purchase them from a pet store or make them on your own.
Have you seen a cat that doesn’t love cardboard boxes? Yes, they’re just crazy about them. For a cat’s fun pastime, even one would be enough. But some caring owners manage to collect entire castles and labyrinths for pets from unnecessary cardboard boxes. It’s worth spending one free evening on this — and then you can work calmly.
Some labyrinth models are equipped with a tray for treats. You can place a treat in special holes, and to get food from the toy, the pet will have to show dexterity and ingenuity. Such toys perfectly develop the intellectual skills of the cat and exclude overeating, which prevents the risk of developing obesity.
- Daily cleanup routine
To maintain cleanliness and combat pet dander, having the right cleaning tools on hand is essential. Invest in a high-quality vacuum cleaner designed to handle pet hair, equipped with effective allergen-trapping filters. Microfiber cloths are great for dusting surfaces and can attract pet hair with static, while lint rollers are a quick solution for removing fur from clothing and upholstery. Additionally, using dog or cat wipes for your pet’s paws and coat can minimize allergens they might carry into your home workspace. These wipes are not only practical for keeping your pet clean but also serve as a must-have tool in your daily cleaning arsenal, especially since they’re safe for frequent usage and can also cater to pet owners with cats when needed.
- Chew toys
If your cat is too active and you want to calm it down, you can use chew toys with extracts of lemon balm, catnip, or calendula. Plant extracts have a mild sedative effect and eliminate nervousness.
- Mechanical toys
You can make your furry friend run after a mechanical mouse, for example. Playing with a mechanical toy stimulates the hunting instinct. Of course, you can tie any ball or soft mouse to a string and imitate its movement. But the best solution would be to buy a mechanical toy. Mechanical toys are easy to operate. With such a toy, a cat will never be bored, and a caring owner will be able to devote time to their work processes. If you don’t want extra noise, choose toys without sound elements.
How to work from home with a dog?
Bored dogs can cause trouble, and if the owner works remotely, there is a chance that the pet may become a member of the owner’s video conferences. Of course, this will brighten up the work process for all colleagues, but it can create a lot of problems for the owner.
- Make your morning walks long and active
Make the walk with the dog the most active and tiring. So, having played enough, it’ll most likely return home tired and won’t have the strength to bother you during work. Include active games and training in your morning walks. Go for a run with your dog in the nearest park. Learn the basic commands from the general training course. Get your pet used to active play in the morning. If you increase the time of the walk by adding training and games to it, this guarantees you quiet work during the rest of the day, and at the same time, the dog will spend a happy time with you.
After a walk, don’t forget to feed the dog well. A well-fed animal doesn’t feel much excitement or anxiety, so it won’t show increased activity or energy. It’s important to choose the right dog food in this context. You want a reputable variety that’s packed with the best balance of nutrients and ingredients to ensure your dog is happy and satisfied while you work.
Also, it’ll be a good idea to find time for a short walk during your lunch break.
- Choose smart toys
Play is an integral part of any dog’s life. Toys will help to cope with the boredom of the pet, as well as with its destructive behavior. Often dogs, which don’t have toys, can use shoes or furniture in their games.
Pick the intellectual toys that will bring a lot of benefits and keep your pet engaged in play without involving you. Such toys stimulate the mental activity of the dog and develop its skills.
- Hide the treats
Your pet will be greatly fascinated by the search game. Spread your dog’s favorite treats around the house and let it find them. Your pet will be busy hunting for treats for a long time.
How to work from home with a bird?
If you need to focus on work, and your favorite parrot or canary entertains you with boisterous singing, move the cage to another room. If this isn’t possible for any reason, you need to distract the pet with something.
- Give a delicacy
Treat your bird with delicacy such as fruit and nut sticks, biscuits, or pine cones. For some time, the pet will be focused on eating the treat, and you can work without too much noise.
- Bath day
Another option is to arrange a bath day for your pet. Place a bathtub filled with wet sand in the cage. The bird will be happy to clean its feathers.
How to work from home with a rodent or rabbit?
Most rodents and decorative rabbits are also nocturnal animals, so during the day the pet is unlikely to interfere with the work process. If you prefer to work at night, the sounds coming from the pet’s cage can annoy you.
And in this case, also, using your pet’s favorite treat would be a good option. Put a treat in a cage or tunnel, and the hamster will vigorously hide it behind the cheeks, and the guinea pig, rat, or mouse will enjoy the food with pleasure.
Another solution is placing additional equipment in the pet’s cage. Install a few more shelves and ladders, a wooden bridge, and a swing, arranging extra obstacles for the rodent. Such entertainment develops dexterity, coordination, and balance.
Working from home with your pet should be comfortable for both you and your pet. If you need time to focus on the process, find good amusement for your four-legged friend. However, don’t forget that our pets are the best source of inspiration and positive emotions, and communication with them improves mood and helps cope with negative emotions.
