Good for you honeypig. Leave the door open and the lid up. One of the biggest causes of pet death after 9/11 was dehydration. People living around ground zero weren't allowed back home for days. SPCA agents were eventually allowed to look for pets but many died from dehydration and hunger either because they were caged all day or bathroom doors and toilet lids were closed. So, always leave them open.
Another thing you can do now as well remove some kitchen cabinets and let your pretty dishes show.
I am so glad you are recognizing habits that aren't yours.