Keeping up with the paws: 8 tips to design a pet-friendly home

Pets are often regarded as cherished members of the family. According to a recent research by real estate company Zillow in the U.S., 78% of home buyers in 2023 shared their homes with at least one pet, whereas only 40% lived with at least one child. This has fueled a growing demand for pet-friendly homes, with 80% of pet-owning buyers stating that their pets significantly influenced their home-buying decisions. This trend is gradually making its way to India, where homeowners are increasingly designing their spaces to accommodate pets. To assist owners and designers in creating pet-friendly spaces, A+D has come up with a checklist to align with this emerging trend and ensure that our homes are safe havens for our furry companions.

1) Pet-friendly plants

For those unfamiliar, indeed, certain plants can be harmful to pets if eaten, potentially leading to seizures, tremors, or more severe reactions. Even pets that are usually well-behaved may occasionally sample a houseplant. For a pet-safe and lush green space, consider adding plants like the Chinese money plant, money tree, rattlesnake plant, spider plant, baby rubber plant, parlor palm, and Venus flytrap. These selections both ensure a lively home environment and reduce the likelihood of trips to the vet.

2) Pet-proof paints and wallpapers

If you have a dog, especially a big one, you probably know that after a walk in the rain or a bath, they tend to rub their sides against the wall. Therefore, in the corridor and next to the bathroom, it is better to use washable finishes that can withstand not only wiping with a damp cloth but also cleaning products. One with cats can opt for fiberglass or contract wallpapers as they are resistant to sharp claws. In case you are recently done with renovations, opt for protective screens. These thin, protective plastic layers will keep your walls safe and your interiors shining.

3) Less and heavy decor materials

When living with pets, there’s always the concern of them toppling antiques or delicate decor pieces. Choose furniture made from heavy stone or metal instead of pieces with glass elements or flimsy fittings, which can be risky if your pets bump into them while playing. Opting for sturdier materials ensures a safer environment for both your pets and your furnishings.

4) Avoid wooden furniture or cover it with sunmica

If you’re a devoted enthusiast of wooden furniture and hesitant to part with it because of your pets, applying a Sunmica overlay can significantly extend its lifespan. Sunmica, known for its scratch-resistant properties, provides ample opportunities for creating pet-friendly interiors and furnishings.

5) Prefer ceramic or teracotta tiles

While hardwood floors enhance the visual appeal of your home, they may not be ideal if you have pets due to their susceptibility to scratches and absorption of liquids, which can cause damage if your pet has an accident indoors. This can lead to deterioration and compromise the durability of your hardwood flooring. Instead, consider opting for ceramic or terracotta tiles.

Ceramic tiles offer durability, scratc resistance, and stain resistance, while terracotta tiles are durable and scratch-resistant, making them excellent choices for your home. These pet-friendly flooring options can be used throughout your home, including the living room, kitchen and bedroom.

6) Leather furniture

Leather is a practical choice for pet-friendly upholstery due to its smooth surface, which makes it easy to clean pet hair. Microfiber fabrics are also easy to maintain and wash, but they can be susceptible to pet nails getting caught in the weave.  Leather can tolerate minor scratches and buff marks, blending them into its natural patina over time.

7) Designated area for your pets

Our pets also require quiet moments to themselves. Utilise underutilised spaces like the area under stairs to create personalised dens for them. Many modern apartments come with duct areas, box rooms, and storage rooms that can be transformed into cosy corners for pets. It’s beneficial to invest in a quality pet bed. Pets often seek comfort by staying close to their family for security. Choose a spot in your living room or bedroom where you can easily keep an eye on them.

8) Keep the layout as free as possible for them to move around freely

Ensure the layout allows for unrestricted movement, allowing pets to roam freely and comfortably. Minimize clutter and furniture placement to create open spaces that accommodate their natural movements. This setup promotes a stress-free environment where pets can play, explore and relax without obstacles.

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