Pets are family and an essential part of our homes, so considering your pets’ comfort and safety should be a priority when doing updates and improvements. Renovating or redecorating the living spaces can be overwhelming, especially considering the needs of your cat or dog. However, creating a beautiful home is possible while accommodating animals’ needs. Here are ideas and inspiration for pet-friendly home improvement projects to make your living spaces comfortable and safe for your pets.
Pet-Friendly Improvement Ideas for Your Home
1. Pet-Proof the Flooring
Most pets enjoy running and playing, and your flooring might take some abuse. When choosing flooring materials, keep your animals in mind. Don’t install carpets that trap pet hair and dust, triggering allergies for you and your family. Instead, opt for durable materials such as tiles or hardwood. These materials are easy to clean and scratch-resistant, making them ideal for pet-friendly homes.
2. Pet-Friendly Furniture
Pets love spending time with their humans, and your furniture provides them a comfortable space to sleep and relax. However, some materials are not suitable for pets. For example, leather furniture can sustain damage from claws, while some fabrics trap pet hair and are easy to stain. Invest in furniture made from pet-friendly materials such as leatherette or microfiber. These fabrics are durable, easy to clean, and withstand pet claws and teeth.
Alternatively, buy washable furniture covers. When the cover shows fur or begins to smell, remove, wash, and reinstall it for a fresh, clean couch or recliner.
3. Indoor Cat Park
Pets love outdoor activities. However, if your cat cannot be outside, set up an area where they can play and exercise safely. Use rugs to protect the flooring and install climbing trees, scratching posts, and tunnels to create an indoor playground. Provide a designated storage space for your cat’s toys to make clean-up easy.
4. Pet-Friendly Home Improvement: Built-in Feeding Area
Feeding times can be messy; creating a built-in feeding station will help keep the area clean and tidy. Install a feeding station under your kitchen island or incorporate it into the cabinets. A designated space will contain your pet’s food and water bowls, preventing spills while making feeding time easier for you and more comfortable for your cat or dog.
5. Dog Grooming Station
After walks on rainy days, your dog’s feet may be muddy. Create an area in the mudroom for grooming your dog. You might include a water basin or install a dog wash station with a sink and sprayer hose. Teach your pup to wait patiently when inside the house for their feet to be cleaned. You’ll protect your flooring and spend quality time grooming your pet.
Pets bring love and happiness into our homes, which means considering their needs should be a key factor when making home improvements. These pet-friendly home improvement projects are just a few ways to update your home while making it dog and cat-friendly. Pet-friendly enhancements create a comfortable and safe home for your pets, making them feel happy and secure.
R. Sorensen Construction and Inspections provides home inspections to customers in Eastern Oregon. Contact us to request our services.