With unconditional love, cuddles on demand and quiet companionship, our furry friends are valued members of our families. But, even though we love them, having pets does come with a unique set of challenges. Whether they’re running through the house with muddy paws, scratching your favourite sofa, or there’s an unexpected accident — keeping the chaos at a minimum isn’t always easy.
Fortunately, there are practical solutions to pet-proof your living space. From durable flooring to smart furniture options, your home can be safe and fun for pets and stress-free for humans.
Not sure where to start? Keep reading to find our top tips for creating a pet-friendly home for you and your furry friends.
Choose the right flooring for pets
Cats and dogs love to explore, which often means bringing the outside in. They won’t wipe their paws before coming inside and little claws can leave scratch marks. Having the right flooring not only makes cleanup easier, but helps keep your spaces looking new, even after years of use.
The ideal solution is luxury hybrid or vinyl plank flooring. It’s easy to clean and ready to withstand foot traffic — whether it’s two legs, or four. You don’t have to sacrifice style to get hardwearing floors. Vinyl flooring comes in a range of wood-look options, including Oak and Blackbutt, so it’s easy to fit into any design.
Create cosy and safe spaces
When you give your pet their own cosy space to relax and play, your home will be easier to maintain.
If you’re a cat parent, think about adding a play zone with scratching posts, ropes and squeaky toys. Make it comfy for your kitty with a covered cat bed they can nest in and a soft blanket for lazy naps. This dedicated space will keep them occupied, and (hopefully) save your furniture from sharp claws.
Have a dog? Their safe place can have their favourite chew toys and teddies. And even though every trip is better with your best friend by your side, if you do have to leave them home alone a biscuit ball can keep them entertained and give them something to nibble on. Add a bed and blankets in a cosy corner so they have somewhere quiet to snuggle.
Pets are curious, so make sure there’s nothing dangerous or breakable in your pet zone, such as poisonous plants or irresistable ornaments.
Pet-friendly furniture and decor
Whether you want your pets beside you or are strictly a no pets on the sofa house, it pays to think about furnishings and decor. Look for pet-friendly solutions that are well-made and easy to clean.
Here are a few design tips to make your everyday easier:
- Choose dark colours or patterns that can conceal any stains
- Layer with washable pieces, such as throws, cushions or chair covers
- If you have a pet that loses fur, consider leather or faux leather accessories
- Protect your floor with a heavy-duty rug and make sure it’s vacuum-safe
- Opt for sturdy furniture and attach to the wall for extra safety
- Switch from loose curtains to plantation shutters if you have playful pets
If you want to keep your decor in good condition, train your pet from an early age and give them plenty of alternatives to your human furniture.
Choosing durable fabrics
The right fabrics will depend on the type of fur baby you have and whether they like to scratch. These pet-friendly materials may be suitable for use in your home:
- Bamboo – resists bacteria and smells
- Vinyl – repels fur, easy to clean
- Microsuede – won’t absorb liquid, easier to clean than suede
- Denim – durable, resists scratches
- Canvas – durable, heavy-weight, and easy to clean
- Velvet – tight weave means fur comes off easily, resists scratching
- Velour – similar to velvet, it resists scratching and is easy to clean
Whatever you choose, look for odour-resistance and moisture-repelling properties to cut down on labour. Bonus points if the fabric can be wiped over or thrown in the washing machine.
Maintain hygiene with pet-friendly cleaning routines
Pets are less discerning than people, and tend to stick their noses everywhere, so it pays to think about how to keep things fresh and clean. Not all cleaning products are safe for pets, so consider natural solutions.
Vinegar and baking soda are inexpensive and can help to keep your surfaces clean and odour-free. Or, look for products that are made specifically for homes with animals.
An enzyme cleaning spray is a great investment, ready for any accidents and odours. An enzyme washing powder can also be your best friend when it comes to removing odours from bedding or lounge cushions. It’s also worth investing in a quality stick vacuum cleaner and robovac to keep your floors free from hair, especially if your pet is a big shedder.
Organise pet supplies efficiently
Just like children, pets come with accessories. From water bowls to beds to leads, you may be wondering how to organise it all.
If you have cupboard space or a spare drawer, you can use it to store toys, blankets, harnesses, and more. Another option is having a shelf in the kitchen or laundry dedicated to these bits and bobs. Hide your pet supplies in baskets or boxes and choose a pet bed that matches your decor to keep your space looking tidy.
If you have under stair storage, this space is ideal for pet-related products. And, don’t forget their food bowls—a stylish pet mat in the kitchen will protect your floors from spills while doubling as a design feature.
Making your home a haven for pets
Pets bring life and fun into your home, and while they’re cuddly and cute, they can also be curious and destructive if you don’t set things up properly from the get-go. Having a few simple strategies in place and thinking ahead when designing spaces ensures that everybody can feel at home.
Durable flooring is a great investment, and your pet will appreciate having a zone that’s just for them. Durable fabrics and furniture will stand up to wear and tear, and a cleaning routine will help you maintain your home.
Remember, life with pets can be messy, but the joy they bring is well worth the extra effort.
