5 Ways to Design a Pet-Friendly Home That’s Comfortable for Everyone

Information in this article is intended for general guidance. Always consult your vet or a qualified behaviourist before making changes that may affect your pet’s wellbeing.

Updated: 10 October 2025

Designing a pet-friendly home isn’t about trade-offs; it’s about intentional choices that protect animals, simplify cleaning, and still look beautiful. After years of living with pets, I’ve learned that hard-wearing surfaces (sealed timber, polished concrete, hybrid vinyl) and low-pile, washable textiles make everyday life easier.

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1) Begin with Layout & Flow

Start with the plan, not the furniture. Animals can become stressed when movement is impeded by cluttered walkways, tight corners, or bulky items—especially in small homes. Aim for open sightlines and clear access to doors and windows so pets can move freely and choose quieter spaces when they need them.

RSPCA guidance notes that bottlenecks at doorways can escalate arousal and aggression, especially where multiple animals compete for space; manage entries and exits to reduce conflict [RSPCA AU].

Zoning tips

• Dogs: Place food and water in low-traffic zones; position beds near family spaces for reassurance without foot-traffic pressure.
• Cats: Prioritise vertical territory. Wall-mounted shelves or window perches provide vantage points and control.
• From my home: Cat wall playground (≈ AUD $220 DIY). Result: fewer sofa scratches; cats prefer to nap by the northern light.

 

2) Materials That Handle Wear, Tear & Fur

In high-traffic areas, sealed timber, polished concrete, and hybrid vinyl balance durability with easy clean-ups. If you love rugs, choose low-pile, washable covers or indoor–outdoor styles you can hose down.

For upholstery, opt for tight weaves and performance fabrics. Leather is durable but may show claw marks over time. Slipcovers keep light palettes feasible and make deep-cleans straightforward. Many owners report that softwoods and plush carpets wear prematurely in pet households; plan accordingly [CHOICE AU Flooring Guide].

Architect Mark MacInnis recommends specifying finishes that are both scratch-resistant and easy to clean—especially in entryways and living areas.

 

3) Safety First (Indoors)

Dog gates create safe boundaries in kitchens, stairwells, and home offices, handy for training, visitors, and mealtimes. Choose pressure- or hardware-mounted models with auto-close hinges and one-hand latches; look for JPMA/ASTM testing where available. Australian brands to consider include DreamBaby, Regalo, and Modern Pets [Brand Pages].

 

Anchor & tidy

• Anchor tall furniture/TVs.
• Conceal cords with covers or cable boxes to prevent chewing or snagging.
• Separate resources: keep food/water away from litter and appliances to reduce stress.

Plant safety

• Favour: spider plant, Boston fern, parlour palm [Plant Safety List].
• Avoid: lilies (all parts), sago palm, dieffenbachia, pothos, philodendron [ASPCA].

 

4) Smarter Outdoor Spaces (Backyard, Balcony, Patio)

A considered outdoor area extends your pet’s world. Prioritise secure fencing and latches, shade, raised beds, and fresh water. Pavers or gravel drain better than grass during wet months and are easier to keep clean. In rentals or small spaces, fold-up shade tents plus a raised bed can turn a nook into a cosy retreat.

Ideas

• Balcony turf patch for cats or small dogs to rest paws on grass
• Patio pet-door inserts for sliding glass doors to allow controlled access

 

5) Pet-Themed Décor—Without Compromising Style

Pet-friendly can be beautiful. Look for aesthetically-pleasing cat trees, scratch posts that match your palette, or multi-use furniture (e.g., coffee tables with built-in hideaways). Choose designs that double as enrichment and blend with your interior. You can even get customised wall art of your pet.

 

Room-by-Room Checklist (Quick Wins)

Kitchen

• Entry mat + paw-wipe station by the door.
• Lidded bins; keep toxic foods out of reach.

Living

• Tight-weave upholstery; washable throws.
• Anchor bookshelves/TVs; hide cords.

Bedroom

• Washable, low-pile rug; pet bed away from door swing.
• Window perch or cat shelf near natural light.

Hallways/Stairs

• Non-slip runners at turns; child/pet gate for visitors or deliveries.

Balcony/Patio

• Shade + raised bed; secure rails/gaps [Balcony Safety].
• Turf patch or litter area positioned away from doors.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Which flooring is best in a house with pets?
Hybrid vinyl, polished concrete, and sealed hardwood offer a strong balance of durability, scratch resistance, and easy cleaning.

How do I maintain a clean house with pets?
Use performance fabrics, washable rugs, and built-in storage. Create a paw-wash/wipe routine at the door and spot-mop between vacuums.

Which indoor plants are safe for cats and dogs?
Spider plant, Boston fern, and parlour palm are generally considered non-toxic; avoid lilies, sago palm, dieffenbachia, pothos, and philodendron.

 

 

 

 

 

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