Pets have mischievous tendencies. Sure, they may not mean to scratch the couch, tug the drapes, or pick the carpet apart, but let’s face it, animals are, well… animals.
Whether you’re a renter or a long-term buyer, pet-based damages can deteriorate your home’s value.
You needn’t engage radical redesign methods to pet-proof your home, and a few easy solutions exist for those seeking happy, safe pet-free environments.
Pet-Proof Tip #1: Use Your Vacuum Cleaner as a Gage
If your vacuum cleaner can’t fit behind it, you should pet-proof it. Cats and small dogs love crevices, nooks and crannies. Moreover, they love engaging areas you won’t see. If you can’t vacuum it, the animals are probably playing in it.
Consider rearranging these gaps to close them off completely. Even if they’re entirely safe for animals, they’re still hidden from watchful eyes.
Pet-Proof Tip #2: Opt for Dark Colors and Small Patterns
Dark colors hide stains and dark hair. Similarly, small patterns mask ripped edges, abrasions, or other damages. Where pattern colors are considered, light colors assist with stain location, helping your cleanup process after accidents or pet-based injuries.
Pet-Proof Tip #3: Install Cupboard Clips
Petco.com has covered several pet-proof tips for dog owners, focusing on keeping dangerous foods and chemicals safe from prying paws.
While safety, of course, should be prioritized, cleanliness is also gained from pet-proofed cupboards and storage areas. AVMA.org depicts that the average American household contains approximately one dog and two cats. However, even a single companion pet can mess up the kitchen, living room, and bedroom areas if cupboard areas are accessed.
Cupboard clips are cheap, and they’re entirely safe for both humans and animals. Additionally, they protect household pets while maintaining cleanliness.
Pet-Proof Tip Four: Try Soft Paws
Sharp nails damage upholstery, but Soft Paws round your feline’s claws while avoiding unethical practices.
Soft and applied with pet-safe nail polish, soft paws are tiny enough to keep your furry friend comfy as they retract their nails. Pain and discomfort aren’t existent, and neither are household damages. As they wear down, replace them. They may initially feel awkward for your cat, but they’re relatively adaptable and easy to change.
Pet-Proof Tip Five: Coordinate Pet Colors
If you can’t beat them, join them. If your animals tend to shed, try aligning rug and drape selections with their hair color.
As they shed, their hair will blend in with the surrounding details. Too much time is spent avoiding hair that, eventually, will fall. Coordinated households are dynamic, and a living room that hides cat and dog hair is much more appealing.
Remember: Your pet should always come first.
Remember to determine your animals’ safety at every turn when pet-proofing your living area. Though areas might be safe for you, they may pose threats to small, furry friends.