Plan home renovations with pets in mind

Those dreaming of a complete home remodel or a simple decor update may not be factoring pets into the decisionmaking and overall design process. But how many times have homeowners regretted a furniture or upholstery choice once Fido or Fluffy got their paws (and fur) on it?

Any room can look more stylish, even with a chronic shedder or scratcher living at the home. All it takes is a little planning and some research on products that are most likely to endure, despite the activities of your furry family members.

“No matter how you want to update or refresh your home, it’s best to be proactive by considering the amount of traffic, the overall purpose the room serves and what kind of wear your room will endure from people and pets,” said Katie Allen, design and trend director at LL Flooring. “Then pick products and furnishings that will both look great and stand the test of time.”

Here are some tips to ensure that both homeowners and their pets will appreciate their home’s next remodel.

Start with a durable base

Changing up the flooring can completely transform the look of a room, but remodelers have to remember that pets cause more wear and tear on floors than any other element of a home. So it is best to start by choosing stain-resistant, durable and attractive flooring for a long-lasting room makeover.

Look for flooring lines that offer waterresistant technology to protect floors against accidents and other messes. Also look for flooring that stands up to heavy foot traffic from both pets and children, as well as product lines that are easy to clean and quick to install. Some options provide an enhanced wear layer to defend the flooring against scratches, scuffs and stains. Such pet-friendly flooring is available in a wide variety of attractive styles and colors.

Out of sight, out of mind

If possible, try to match the color of the room’s fabrics (and/or flooring) to the pet’s fur color. Doing this will help hide at least some of the hair the critters leave behind. Those who have a black dog and choose a white rug may spend a lot of time vacuuming. For multiple pets, a multicolor pattern for upholstery or rugs can be a homeowner’s best friend (next to the four-legged one, that is).

Choose the right materials

Stain-resistant, smooth-textured upholstery for couches and chairs — such as leather or synthetic materials — work best because they are less appealing to scratch and make it easier to deal with any pet-related messes. Slipcovers work well, too, since they are machine washable, and they can cover flaws on any furniture that is not yet ready for an upgrade.

Discourage furniture abuse

Avoid wicker and rattan furniture and accent pieces because the materials can be used as a chew or scratch toy by dogs and cats. As an alternative, create a designated play area with the animal pal in mind, supplied with all the toys and comforts they need. Offering multiple scratching posts for cats is a great idea, especially posts that contain catnip to attract the feline. Provide animal companions with their own special beds, encouraging them to snuggle up with attention and treats.

Pet-proof the rooms

Just as parents would childproof a home when prepping for a mobile little one, consider each room from the pet’s point of view. What is at a level the pets are likely to bump or whack with their tails? Do not keep breakable items on coffee tables or other low places where they can be bumped into and broken, or up on shelves that kitty can reach easily. Store those items safely away, or display them in a closable cabinet.

With these tips in mind, a home or room makeover can foster a haven for the entire family, including pets.