13 Clutter Items Every Pet Owner Should Purge for a Happier Pet

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If you choose to live with a pet, you’re opening up your home to love, fur and energy without bounds. There’s stuff that comes with pets, though. The toys, beds, bowls, leashes, carpets and so much more seem to multiply overnight and before you know it, you have a mountain of clutter. This mess is an eyesore and it could be dangerous, unhygienic and uncomfortable to your furry companion.

Clearing out the chaos isn’t about being perfect, it’s about creating a safer, happier space for your pet. Looking forward to turning your home into a cute hangout for your loved furry pet? For that to happen, here’s what to start letting go of.

Unused Collars or Leashes

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It may be practical to hang on to worn out collars and leashes ‘’just in case,’’ but they usually end up as forgotten clutter. Worse yet, frayed straps or an improper clasp can be unsafe for your pet. Have one solid, well fitted set and throw away the rest, you’ll save space and there’s no danger of things getting lost.

Tattered Bedding

If your pet’s bed has taken a beating, it’s time to say goodbye. Exposed stuffing and torn covers aren’t only unsightly, they can be dangerous to your pet if they decide to nibble on them. Choose a tough, washable bed that won’t put your security at risk for the sake of comfort.

Worn-out Toys

We all have that one bin stuffed with half-chewed balls, frayed ropes, and squeaky toys that lost their squeak years ago. While it’s tempting to keep them for sentimental reasons, damaged toys can pose choking hazards or sharp edges that harm your pet. Replace them with a few sturdy options and rotate regularly to keep things fresh and fun.

Outdated Medications

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Pets, like people, often have leftover medications after a trip to the vet. However, keeping these around can be dangerous if they expire or get into the wrong paws. Consult your vet about proper disposal and avoid storing unnecessary meds.

Expired Food and Treats

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Check the labels on your pet’s food and treats. Expired items can harbor bacteria or lose their nutritional value, which could upset your pet’s stomach. A study by the FDA found that expired pet food can even grow mold, posing serious health risks. Clearing out old food ensures your pet only eats what’s safe and healthy.

Broken or Mismatched Food and Water Bowls

Cracked or chipped bowls may seem harmless, but they can harbor bacteria in the crevices or even injure your pet’s mouth. Replace damaged bowls with sturdy, non-slip options to keep mealtime safe and clean.

Unnecessary Grooming Tools

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How many brushes, nail clippers, and shampoo bottles does one pet need? If you’ve got duplicates or tools that didn’t quite work out, it’s time to pare down. Stick to the essentials that suit your pet’s coat and size.

Old Pet Clothing

Sweaters, booties, and costumes are adorable, but if they no longer fit or are too worn out, they’re just taking up space. Poorly fitting clothing can restrict movement or cause skin irritation. Keep only what your pet actually uses.

Unused Crates or Carriers

Crates and carriers are essential for travel or training, but if you have extras cluttering up the garage, it’s worth rehoming them. A single, well-maintained carrier is enough for most pets, freeing up space in your home.

Half-used Cleaning Supplies

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Pet-specific cleaning products, like stain removers and deodorizers, often pile up after one-time emergencies. If you’ve got bottles gathering dust, check their expiration dates and get rid of anything you don’t use. A streamlined cleaning kit is easier to manage and more effective.

Chewed-up Chew Toys

Chew toys are a lifesaver for teething or bored pets, but once they’re mangled beyond recognition, they can do more harm than good. Broken pieces can be swallowed or sharp edges can cut gums. Replace these with fresh, durable options.

Old Training Tools

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Clickers, whistles, or training pads that you no longer use are just adding to the clutter. If your pet has outgrown these tools, consider donating them to a shelter where they can be put to good use.

Random Pet Knick-knacks

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Finally, take a hard look at the random pet-related items you’ve accumulated—keychains, stickers, mugs. These may not directly impact your pet, but clearing out these extras can create a more organized environment, which benefits you both.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.