Pets hold a special place in our hearts, providing unconditional love, companionship, and emotional support. They’re more than just animals—they’re family. Just like your house is more than a structure; it’s your home… a place for you and your beloved fur babies!
Caring for pets can sometimes be messy and demanding, but their love makes it all worthwhile. That’s why your current or next home should be welcoming and comfortable enough for your pets.
Do You Already Have a Pet or Plan to Have One?
Being a pet owner is quite common—66% of U.S. households have one!1 If you already have a pet, finding a home that suits their needs may be easier since you’re familiar with their habits, like how much space they require and what keeps them happy. Moving from an apartment to a house can be an even bigger win for your furry friend—they’ll likely love the extra room to roam and play.
If you don’t currently have a pet but plan to get one in your new home, do your research. Consider the type of pet you want and the kind of home you’re looking at. For smaller pets like hamsters or guinea pigs, the adjustment may be minimal. However, if you’re planning to adopt a dog or cat, it’s important to understand their specific needs to ensure they’ll be comfortable in their new environment. While every pet is unique, being prepared for their requirements will set you up for success as a pet owner.
Features to Look for in a Pet-Friendly Home
While most homes are suitable for a variety of pets, you’ll want to make sure your home is a comfortable haven for your furry friends. To achieve this, there are three things you should prioritize.
Space
When choosing a pet-friendly home, consider the size and layout of the space. Pets, especially larger breeds or active animals, need room to move freely. Look for open floor plans, fenced yards, or dedicated play areas that give your furry friends enough room to stretch their legs and feel at ease. For cats or small pets, vertical spaces like shelves or nooks can also be a plus.
Floors
Durable and easy-to-clean flooring is a must for pet owners. Scratch-resistant hardwood, tile, or laminate floors are excellent choices as they can withstand scratches and are simple to clean. Avoid carpets, which can trap fur, odors, and stains, making maintenance more difficult. You can also consider adding area rugs for comfort that can be easily washed or replaced. If you do choose to buy a carpeted home, you may want to invest in a robot vacuum or have a carpet-cleaning solution handy to maintain the quality of your carpet.
Neighborhood
The surrounding neighborhood also contributes to your pet’s quality of life. Look for areas with wide sidewalks and walking paths, which are great for regular exercise and safe walks. Proximity to parks, especially those with designated off-leash areas, provides excellent opportunities for socialization and play. Neighborhoods with pet-friendly establishments, such as restaurants and retail shops, can also enhance your and your pet’s lifestyle.
How to Make Your Home Pet-Friendly
While there are many ways to design a pet-friendly home for your furry companions, consider starting with these adjustments as the foundation for updating your home.
Comfortable Furniture
Choose furniture that can withstand wear and tear from your pets while keeping your home stylish. Leather can be an appealing choice, but it may show scratches more easily, and lighter colors, like white, are more prone to visible stains. Microfiber is another durable option, and washable slipcovers offer an additional layer of protection and easy cleaning. Investing in quality pet beds or cat trees allows your pets to relax and keep them off the main furniture.
Protect Valuables
Keep fragile or valuable items out of harm’s way by storing them on high shelves or inside secure cabinets. Use cord protectors to prevent pets from chewing on electrical wires and anchor large items like TVs, bookcases, tall furniture, or shelves to avoid accidental tipping during playtime.
Include Interactive Spaces
Keep your pets engaged and entertained by creating interactive spaces tailored to their needs. Cats enjoy climbing trees, scratching posts, or window perches, while dogs benefit from a designated play area with their favorite toys. Rotating toys or adding puzzle feeders can stimulate their minds, reduce boredom, and promote overall well-being.
Home Is Where Your Pets Are
Though homeowners can expect a fair amount of maintenance around the house, you don’t want to add more to the list with your pets around. Creating a pet-friendly home involves more than just choosing the right space; it requires thoughtful consideration of your pet’s needs and behavior. By prioritizing features like generous space, durable flooring, and a pet-friendly neighborhood, you can ensure your beloved companion feels happy and at home.
If you want to go beyond making updates in your home for just your pets and do a complete makeover, see how you can refresh your living space with renovations.
Still on the fence about homeownership? One major advantage of owning a home is the freedom to adopt a pet without being restricted by rental rules. You’ll also have the ability to customize your home to better accommodate your furry friend, which is often not possible in a rental. Start your planning now buy checking out our first-time homebuyer guide.
Sources: 1thezebra.com
