Pets are family—and like any family member, they come with needs. But too often, homeowners feel they have to compromise their design vision to accommodate litter boxes, dog beds, or scratch-happy cats. The good news? You don’t have to trade sophistication for pet safety or function.
With thoughtful choices in layout, materials, and decor, you can create a home that’s equal parts chic and pet-ready. Here’s how.
1. Choose Pet-Proof (and People-Friendly) Fabrics
Not all upholstery is created equal. When selecting sofas, chairs, or rugs, prioritize:
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Performance fabrics like Crypton, Sunbrella, or microfiber that resist stains and odors
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Leather, which is easy to wipe clean (though beware of scratch marks with cats)
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Patterns and textures that disguise fur and wear better than solids
Bonus: These materials are kid-friendly too.
2. Upgrade Flooring for Durability and Easy Cleanup
Pets bring love—and mess. Choose floors that can handle it:
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Luxury vinyl plank (LVP): Waterproof, scratch-resistant, and stylish
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Tile or sealed concrete: Great for accident-prone pets
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Engineered hardwood with matte finish: If you want wood, this holds up best
Avoid high-pile carpet or fragile wood that easily dents or stains.
3. Designate Stylish Pet Zones
Rather than hiding pet essentials, integrate them into your home’s flow:
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Create a mudroom nook with storage for leashes, toys, and a water bowl
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Tuck food dishes into a custom pull-out drawer in your kitchen island
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Use a decorative bench with a cushion as a dog bed at the foot of your bed
4. Blend Pet Furniture Into Your Aesthetic
Say goodbye to ugly plastic crates and bland scratchers. Today’s pet furniture is functional and fabulous:
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Sleek wood-framed pet beds with linen covers
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Mid-century modern cat trees
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Side tables that double as dog dens or litter box enclosures
Think of pet furniture as part of your design plan, not an afterthought.
5. Choose Pet-Safe Plants and Materials
Greenery adds life to any home—but some plants can be toxic to pets. Stick with safe favorites like:
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Spider plants
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Calatheas
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Areca palms
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Boston ferns
Also avoid rugs with chemical treatments or furniture made with flame retardants. Go for low-VOC, natural materials when possible.
6. Invest in Stylish Storage for Toys and Treats
Minimize clutter by corralling pet gear in woven baskets, lidded bins, or drawer organizers. Label them for easy access and keep them near your pet’s favorite areas. Your floors (and your Instagram feed) will thank you.
7. Make High-Traffic Zones Functional
Entryways, back doors, and patios see the most paw traffic. Protect them with:
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Indoor-outdoor rugs
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Easy-to-clean runners
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Decorative hooks for harnesses and poop bags
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A towel station for muddy paws
8. Add Built-In Pet Features if You’re Renovating
Planning a remodel? Consider these upgrades:
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A pet washing station in the laundry room
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Built-in feeding stations with water-line connections
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Under-stair sleeping nooks
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Screened porches with pet-safe flooring
They add convenience, comfort—and value.
Final Thought
Your home doesn’t need to look like a kennel to be pet-friendly. With intentional design and smart choices, it can reflect your personal style and your love for your four-legged companions.
Looking to buy or sell a home with pets in mind? FirstTeam® agents know how to spot pet-perfect layouts, outdoor spaces, and upgrade potential—so you and your pets can live in style and comfort.
Need help finding a home that fits your lifestyle—and your pet’s?
👉 Get in touch with a FirstTeam® agent today