We understand pets can do damage to your home, furnishings, or garden – as well as, possibly, other people’s property too.
Here’s our tips on how to prevent damage in your home.
Exercise your pets
One of the main causes of pets misbehaving and causing damage at home is restlessness due to lack of exercise or stimulation.
Dogs should be walked at least once a day, but some breeds may need more.
If you’re not sure how much exercise your dog needs, always check with your vet to see what’s recommended – and take care not to over-exercise young pets.
It’s important to remember both dogs and cats need mental stimulation as well as physical. They can benefit from different puzzles and games, as well as things like scatter feeding and frozen treats.
Take the time to learn about your pet’s needs to make sure they remain happy and healthy.
Invest in dog training
If you’ve got a puppy, it can be a good idea invest in puppy training classes as early as possible to stop them from damaging your home.
You can also go to obedience classes for adult dogs if you have a rescue or rehomed dog, although it can sometimes be harder to train them.
It’s important to know that your dog will listen to you if you tell them to stop whatever they’re doing.
Use anti-chew spray
Bitter-tasting sprays can be used to deter dogs and cats from chewing your furniture.
Make sure whichever product you’re using is stain-free and harmless for pets to ingest.
This is particularly useful to deter your cat from scratching things other than their scratching post.
Read our guide on how to stop cats scratching your furniture.
Consider crate training for your dog
Separation anxiety can also be a reason they might chew or destroy parts of your home when you’re away.
You could take the time to crate train them, so they feel they have a safe and secure place to relax in while you’re not home.
Read our guide on dealing with pet separation anxiety or watch our video on how to crate train your dog.
Does home insurance cover damage caused by pets?
In general, no. For instance, we don’t cover any damage that’s caused by your pet:
- chewing
- scratching
- tearing
- fouling
- vomiting
The reason pet damage isn’t usually covered by insurers is because it’s difficult to predict the level of risk involved.
Some pets are extremely well-behaved, but some can regularly cause considerable damage to homes.
It can be a good idea to set aside an emergency fund to prepare yourself if you can, especially if you have a dog who can be less well-behaved.
What if my pet damages someone else’s property?
Usually, you’ll need to solve this problem privately and the damage won’t be covered under your pet or home insurance.
Some policies do include some level of third-party cover.
