12 Simple Ways to Make Your Home More Pet-Friendly

I get it: Your pet is part of the family. The good news is that with a few simple tweaks, you can make them feel even more at home while keeping your house in good shape.

I created this list to help you ensure your home is safe and comfortable for your four-legged friend. You'll find advice to help you protect your belongings from (cringe) claws, teeth, and stains.

The tips here keep things simple. I won't tell you to build a separate pet-washing room or replace all your furniture. Instead, I'll stick to recommendations almost anyone can apply.

Invest in a Good Vacuum

When I say “good,” I mean a vacuum that can handle pet hair as well as one that's easy to maneuver. With a furry friend inside your space, you're going to need to vacuum regularly, and hauling a giant appliance around isn't a great option. Personally, I like the Dyson V15 Detect.

This rule applies even if your pet doesn't shed. Assuming they go outdoors regularly, they'll track in all sorts of dirt and debris.

Create a Pet Exclusive Space

If you give your pet a home within your home, they'll be more comfortable, and you'll have less to worry about. From my experience, a corner that includes a comfy bed, easy access to their water and food dish, and a basket of toys is a great way to keep your pet out of trouble.

Without a home base, pets are more likely to intrude on spaces you wish they wouldn't, like your sofa or bed. Even if you're cool with Fido on the furniture, giving them a place of their own will make them feel more secure.

Choose Wipeable Materials

If you're buying new furniture and happen to have a pet, I suggest opting for materials that are easy to wipe down. Choose leather rather than velvet, for example.

Of course, not everyone buys a whole new living room after signing adoption papers for their new best friend. So, if you need to protect your existing upholstery, consider purchasing a cover for your couch or favorite chair. A big, washable blanket or sheet will work in a pinch.

Secure Cabinets

Your four-legged companion doesn't have hands, but that doesn't mean they can't get into things. American Humane suggests securing your lower cabinets and drawers with child locks before you bring home a dog or cat.

You don't want to come home from a night out to find your dog got into the cabinet under the kitchen sink where you keep all the cleaning supplies. You also don't want to find that they got into the drawer where you keep their extra treats.

Get Covered Trash Cans

Trash might disgust humans, but pets often love it. The grease you poured off the skillet, the moldy cheese you discarded, and the empty container of dog food you threw away are all too tempting for animals.

If you don't want to pick up a tipped-over trash can, opt for one with a sturdy base and solid lid. Personally, I like iTouchless, which offers trash cans with pet-proof lids. This goes for the receptacles in your kitchen as well as your bathroom.

Secure Loose Cords and Wires

It's no secret that cats love to play with string, and most dogs adore a good game of tug-of-war. So, securing loose cords and wires before you bring your pet home is a good idea.

From the cords on your blinds to the ones on your laptop, you'll want to ensure nothing is too tempting for your furry friend. If they start playing with the wrong wire, it could lead to a big mess, or worse, it could hurt them.

Use Washable Linens

Even if you swear you won't let it happen, chances are your puppy or kitten will find their way onto your bed. According to a survey from Psychology Today, 76% of pet owners admit that their dog sleeps with them at night.

Unfortunately, pets have accidents. So, you'll want to invest in linens, including bedspreads, that are easy to wash. You'll also want to ensure you have a good mattress cover on.

Flooring Musts

If you have the opportunity to pick flooring for your home before bringing a pet inside, opt for hard surfaces that are easy to clean. You can always make things more cozy with a rug (preferably one that's washable).

If you already have carpet and can't change it, stock up on enzymatic cleaners to remove accidents. Avoid steam cleaners, which will set urine stains in place by bonding the odor-causing proteins to the fibers in your carpet.

Plenty of Toys

Keeping your four-legged friend stimulated is good for them and good for your home. A bored dog or cat is much more likely to turn your furniture, pillows, or shoes into a toy.

If you prefer to keep teeth and claw marks out of your flip-flops and drapes, ensure you have plenty of high-quality toys around. Ask your vet for the best toy recommendations, as some available at pet stores aren't good for your pet's health.

Keep Appliances Shut

Appliances like your dryer might seem like a cozy den to your new kitten, so it's important to keep them shut. If you forget, make sure you check before turning anything on.

If your cat has access to your garage, you should also give the hood a quick bang before you get in your car. You might also want to check the wheel wells. Cats like to hide in the engine compartment or above the wheels where it's warm.

Skip Poisonous Plants

Your beloved plants may not be good for your pets. Plants like aloe vera, daisies, and azaleas can be toxic to animals. So, be sure to keep any houseplants well out of reach and do some research before you add new greenery to your yard.

The ASPCA keeps a list of toxic plants for reference. They also include non-toxic alternatives you can safely grow around your home.

Use a Shoe Organizer

Anyone who's ever owned a dog has probably lost a few pairs of shoes. Fortunately, this is entirely avoidable with a shoe organizer.

Look for an option that includes a door you can shut. Alternatively, for small spaces, an over-the-door pocket organizer is great for keeping your sandals and sneakers out of Fido's reach.