Any pet owner will tell you that the house is just as much for them as it is for us. Since the kitchen is the heart of the home, including your furry friends’ needs during the remodeling process is a must.
Fortunately, with so many design options available, you don’t have to sacrifice style to create a kitchen that caters to your pet’s needs. Here are some tips to make a pet-friendly kitchen.
Scratch resistant flooring
Pets can do some serious damage to flooring, so some flooring options should be avoided. Hardwood floors may be beautiful, but they will be difficult to maintain and expensive to replace once damage is done.
Carpeting is another flooring option you should avoid. Not just because of the dirt and odor it collects but also because carpeting in the kitchen sounds like a nightmare!
Investing in scratch-resistant, low-maintenance flooring is a good idea when designing a kitchen with your pet in mind. Ceramic or porcelain tile and luxury vinyl plank are great options thanks to their durability.
They are also low maintenance and can be easily cleaned if muddy paws find their way into your kitchen.
Pet-proof cabinets
Pets are smart, and some are able to get into cabinets. In some cases, that could result in a really sick pet. Whether you store household cleaners or your favorite snacks in the lower cabinets, using child locks to keep your pets out is essential.
While we’re talking about cabinets, one functional design element you could include is a lower-level pullout pet food station. This cabinet could contain your furry friend’s food and water bowls, which keep them out of sight and off the floor. You could also store their food, snacks, and other pet items in this cabinet to organize their belongings.
Safety first!
Our four-legged friends love to surprise us and keep us on our toes. For our own peace of mind as well as their safety and well-being, it’s important to be cautious of where you place certain kitchen appliances.
For example, if you have a countertop microwave, you may want to consider a built-in option that a pet can’t reach.
A pet getting into the trash could lead to more than just a giant mess. Depending on what’s in the trash, it could be dangerous. Installing a pullout cabinet drawer for your trash cans or having one that is lockable are great ways to prevent a disaster from happening.
A space just for them
Your pet is a part of the family, and each family member should have some spaces throughout the house that are just for them. If your family spends a lot of time in the kitchen, creating a spot your pet feels comfortable is a good idea.
If you have a pet that likes to lounge, installing a pet nook where they can relax while you cook can be a nice addition to your pet-friendly kitchen. Depending on their size, this could be a window perch or a larger area designated for them. You could include cushions and a blanket for them to sit on comfortably. If you’d like some help designing a kitchen with your furry friend in mind, we are happy to help!
