Getting a pet is a tough decision to make, but you can’t deny how much happiness they bring. They’re family to you so it’s essential you make your home a safe haven for your pets. Certain kinds of furniture, windows, and even material can be harmful to your furry buddies. It would be a good idea to invest in some pet-friendly interior décor. Livspace assists you with some ideas on how to pet-proof your home:
Pet-friendly décor tip #1 Fabric Selection
Having a pet means having to deal with balls of hair and fur on a daily basis. While regular vacuuming is a must for hygiene, make sure you don’t own fabrics like velvet or chenille that attract hair. Also, dark-coloured rugs or carpets are a bad idea; fur sticks to them and stands out like an eyesore. Leather, microfibre, canvas, denim or any fabric with a tight weave are good choices for upholstery and rugs. They’re easier to clean, making maintenance a breeze for you.
Pet-friendly décor tip #2 No- edges policy
Pets tend to run around a lot, creating havoc at home. You know what we’re talking about! So let them have fun, just ensure your furniture and other installations don’t have sharp edges that can harm them. Much like baby-proofing a home, you can find edge and corner guards for your tables to keep your dogs and cats safe.
Pet-friendly décor tip #3 Safe Wiring
Pets will spend most of their time rolling around and exploring the entire house. You should ensure that there are no loose wires or empty sockets that can be a hazard for your curious cat. Block their access to wires by attaching the wires to the wall or furniture, or tucking it out of reach. You can cover cords in wrap cords that are easily available in the market, just like electrical socket guards that can be installed by you.
Pet-friendly décor tip #4 Closed Cupboards
Keep all your cupboards closed and fastened properly; in case your pet learns how to open them (they can be quite smart), get more secure fastenings. You do not want your pet wolfing down dangerous foodstuff or going near abrasive chemicals.
Pet-friendly décor tip #5 Lidded Dustbins
Similarly, your trash collection and disposal should be done carefully. At no point should dustbins be left open or garbage bags left exposed. They contain sharp objects, harmful foodstuff etc. which can seriously injure the pet.
Pet-friendly décor tip #6 Proper Plants
If you have plants in the house, select them very carefully. Some varieties of flowers and plants can be poisonous to the pets. Check with the vet before you go into gardening mode.
Pet-friendly décor tip #7 Covered Balcony
If you live in a high- rise, bars in the balcony are an absolute must. Install bars, screens or fibreglass in your windows and balconies as pets have a tendency to explore heights. Make sure the bars are snug and tight, especially if you have kittens or pups around.
Pet-friendly décor tip #8 Anti-Skid Flooring
A pet owner should avoid flooring that makes the animals skid and lose balance. Polished wooden flooring is a no-no. Get anti-skid tiled flooring or opt for vinyl, linoleum flooring or hardwood flooring instead. If you can’t do much about the flooring, your pets would love carpeting. However, it would involve more cleaning and maintenance.
Pet-friendly décor tip #9 Pet Corner
Pet owners often fail to do this basic thing: create a pet corner. Your pet is family; it should have a cosy bed, a food bowl and a litter box/area as well. Keep a basket with its toys in the pet corner. This will keep your house neat and sanitary.
Make use of these simple tips and make your home a safe and happy place for your pet! Got any more suggestions? Write to us at the email ID given below.
