12 Ways I Make My Home Pet-Friendly

As a pet parent, there’s no greater joy than coming home to a wagging tail or the soft purr of your beloved fur baby. However, to ensure that your home is a haven for your pets as much as it is for you, it’s crucial to create a pet-friendly environment.

The right modifications can promote your pet’s safety, comfort, and overall wellbeing. Here are 12 effective ways to make your home pet-friendly.

1. Secure Your Home

Creating a pet-friendly home starts with ensuring the safety of your pet. This could mean installing baby gates to block off certain areas, securing loose wires to prevent chewing, or using childproof latches to keep curious paws out of cabinets. Regularly check your home for small objects that could be a choking hazard, and keep all toxic substances out of your pet’s reach.

2. Choose Pet-Friendly Fabrics and Furniture

When selecting furniture and fabrics, prioritize materials that are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to scratches. Leather and microfiber are often good choices. Also, consider your pet’s fur color when choosing the color of your furniture to make shed fur less noticeable.

3. Provide Adequate Climbing and Scratching Spaces for Cats

Cats naturally love to climb and scratch. Investing in a cat tree or scratching post will not only keep your cat entertained, but it will also save your furniture from potential damage. They come in a variety of sizes and styles to match your home decor.

4. Install Pet Doors

Pet doors are a great way to give your pets the freedom to move between indoor and outdoor spaces. Make sure to choose a pet door that is the right size for your pet and can be securely locked when needed.

5. Make Sure Your Garden is Pet-Friendly

If you have a garden, ensure it’s safe for your pet. Avoid growing plants that are toxic to pets, and consider adding a fenced area where your pet can play safely.

6. Create a Comfortable Sleeping Area

Your pet needs a comfortable place to rest and sleep. This could be a pet bed, a special blanket, or even a designated piece of furniture.

7. Keep Food and Water Dishes at Comfortable Heights

Elevating your pet’s dishes can make eating and drinking more comfortable, especially for older pets or those with joint issues.

8. Store Pet Food Properly

Storing pet food properly can help keep it fresh and prevent your pet from overeating. Consider using airtight containers and storing food in a cool, dry place.

9. Give Your Pet Plenty of Toys

Toys are essential for your pet’s mental stimulation and physical exercise. Make sure to provide a variety of toys suitable for your pet’s size and breed.

10. Keep Your Home Clean

Regular cleaning is important to keep your home healthy for you and your pet. Vacuum regularly to keep pet hair and dander to a minimum, and clean pet areas frequently.

11. Provide Adequate Exercise Opportunities

Whether it’s a backyard for dogs to run around in or a climbing tree for cats, make sure your home offers plenty of opportunities for your pet to get the exercise they need.

12. Consider Your Pet When Decorating

From choosing pet-friendly plants to avoiding breakable decorations, keeping your pet in mind when decorating can help create a safer and more comfortable environment for them. Try to see your home from your pet’s perspective, and make adjustments as necessary.