Nintendo has issued a timely public service announcement (PSA) urging owners to keep their Nintendo Switch consoles safe from pets. While this advice might seem unexpected, it highlights a crucial point: gaming consoles, including the Nintendo Switch, are highly susceptible to damage from liquids and other hazards pets can pose.
The Warning
Nintendo’s official Japanese social media account shared a post warning users about the potential risks of leaving their Switch consoles unattended around pets. The PSA specifically highlighted dangers such as saliva and urine causing water damage to the device, along with the possibility of pets chewing on the console itself. The message serves as a gentle reminder to gamers to exercise caution when gaming around their furry companions.
Why Now?
The timing of this warning has raised questions. It’s possible Nintendo is observing an increase in repair requests linked to pet-related damage. While Japan has a lower rate of pet ownership compared to countries like the United States, the global nature of Nintendo’s audience means such issues could be more widespread elsewhere. Interestingly, a similar PSA was issued by Nintendo a few years ago, focusing on the risk of pets chewing on cables. This new warning might simply be a reiteration of past advice with a fresh emphasis on the broader risks pets pose.
Protecting Your Console
With the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, safeguarding gaming systems has become even more critical. Damaging a current-gen console due to preventable accidents would be unfortunate, but it’s especially problematic if the device is part of a brand-new, highly sought-after release. Console shortages have plagued launches in recent years, and the looming possibility of increased prices due to tariffs adds further urgency to protecting these valuable devices.
What To Do If Damage Occurs
If pet-related damage happens, Nintendo recommends contacting their support team first. While liquid exposure or pet-induced damage is unlikely to be covered under warranty, attempting to fix the issue without proper expertise could exacerbate the problem. It’s always best to leave repairs to professionals, even if it means a higher cost.
Final Thoughts
Nintendo’s PSA might seem unexpected, but it highlights a real issue for gamers with pets. Whether you’re safeguarding your existing Nintendo Switch or preparing for the next-generation model, keeping your console out of harm’s way is essential. After all, even the most well-trained pets might succumb to curiosity when a gaming device is within reach.
