With around 12 million households across the UK owning at least one pet, it’s no surprise that there are lots of pet-friendly interior designs and styles out there. Having a home that is safe, secure and comfortable for your pet is essential, as you want them to feel relaxed whenever they’re in the house or garden. Many people, however, are still unsure on how to really make your home pet-friendly and create a space that works for both owners and pets, so we’ve gathered a list of top tips to help you achieve the perfect balance.
Rosewood Catwalk Collection Cat Scratcher – Petwell
#1. Differentiate Furniture and Toys
One of the most common issues when bringing a new puppy or kitten home is the nibbling, scratching and chewing on exposed wooden furniture legs. From the sofa to the dining room chairs, that last thing you want is small chunks being taken from the freshly varnished material. The best way to control this is to nip the issue in the bud straight away. Invest in some chewable toys for your playful pup to get stuck into, and for the cats you want to ensure you have a good scratching post for them to use.
#2. Choose the Right Upholstery
Having the right kind of upholstery in your home is going to make a huge difference to how you maintain and clean your furniture. You want to avoid fabrics that pet hair will cling to, such as silk and velvet (even with your cushions). Instead, focus on choosing a more pet-friendly fabric such as leather or a synthetic fibre. You’ll find that having these pet-friendly fabrics won’t just be easier to clean and take care of, but your pets will love nothing more than snuggling up next to you for an evening in front of the television.
#3. Keep Areas Clean
Ensuring your home is clean at all times is really important when you have pets, especially with cats and dogs. If you leave human food lying around then you run the risk of them sneaking a bite, which could be harmful to them in the future. Similarly, if you don’t keep your house neat and tidy, you may find that your pet gets hold of something they shouldn’t which could result in an expensive pet bill. Just like children, pets are great at finding things they shouldn’t when your back is turned, so it’s always beneficial to be aware of this and keep sharp or small objects out of reach.
#4. Make Them Welcome
Our pets are part of the family, so you want them to feel as warm and welcome in your home as possible. Investing in some of the essentials for your pet to enjoy will ensure they are happy at home and feel part of the family. From a cosy, snuggly bed to a selection of exciting toys, having lots of things to make your pet feel settled is crucial.
