Need a reason to declutter? Do it for your pets

11 September 2013

Many of my clients are animal lovers. I’m an animal lover too. I even made my living as a pet writer before becoming an organizer. Perhaps I attract animal lovers.

I’ve never worked with animal hoarders (nor do I aspire to), but I’ve worked in severely cluttered homes that were also home to a few animals. I’m always amazed at how the animals maneuver around the clutter.

For some high-energy dogs or cats, a cluttered environment might feel like a fun playground or obstacle course. But I believe that most animals enjoy an orderly just like many humans do. They want wide open spaces in which to rest and play. They want to be able to get around easily.

This was brought home to me recently when my team worked on decluttering the crowded living space of a home occupied by one human and one young cat. As soon as we would clear a space (the top of the dining room table, for instance), he’d jump right up. Every time I turned around, it seemed the kitty had found a new spot in which to rest.

My favorite such moment was when I looked up and there he was in a china cabinet drawer that had just been emptied:

Cats love for drawers to be emptied!

A little later, my heart sang when he started batting his toy around the newly clear living room floor.

If you’re looking for a reason to declutter your home, do it for your pets. I’m confident they’ll be happier and more comfortable.

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Comments

Thats great for that kitty. I haaaate watching hoarding shows and seeing pets. I keep my house decluttered and spotless just for me, but also for my pets. My 5 pups love that they have soooo much open space to run and play in the house.

brandy September 14, 2013 08:45 AM

Thanks for your comment, Brandy! I’m quite sure your animals appreciate the open space in your home!!

Janine Adams September 15, 2013 06:51 PM

Thanks for the info!!! I’ve been putting off decluttering & NOW I have an excellent reason to get busy!!!

Colleen Hardesty December 23, 2017 07:04 PM

Wonderful, Colleen! I agree—it’s excellent motivation!

Janine Adams December 24, 2017 07:53 AM

Thanks for information
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Harri February 2, 2022 02:21 PM

As a fellow animal lover and owner of a furry friend, I couldn’t agree more with the sentiments expressed in this insightful piece. It’s remarkable how animals adapt to their surroundings, even when clutter abounds, but there’s no denying the joy they exude when given ample space to roam and play freely. Decluttering isn’t just about creating a visually pleasing environment for ourselves; it’s also about prioritizing the well-being and happiness of our beloved pets. Thank you for sharing this reminder of the importance of a tidy home for our furry companions.

Adam March 4, 2024 02:56 PM

thanks for your valuable information… i have 2 cats i will try practise them as your idea

Mahesh balan March 4, 2024 06:01 PM

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About Janine

Hello! I’m Janine Adams — a certified professional organizer based in St. Louis, and the creator of Peace of Mind Organizing®.

I love order, harmony + beauty, but I believe that the way that you feel about yourself and your home is what truly matters.

If you’re ready to de­clutter with a purpose and add more ease to your life, you’ve found the right blog — and you’ve found the right company.

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