Of all the various things that homeowners should consider when dealing with a home remodel, how their furry family members would use the remodeled features is not always a priority.
However, keeping your pets’ needs in mind as you plan your remodel can give you excellent results that will be enjoyed by you and your precious pets. Here’s what to consider to make your home remodel design choices pet-friendly.
Consider the Personality and Specific Needs of Your Pets
The age, temperament, size, and health of your pets will impact which pet-friendly features will suit your abode, so make sure to keep these specifics in mind when planning your home’s layout and design choices.
For example, knowing that your dogs get agitated when they can’t see outside the house may determine whether you should have a very low window installed, so they can freely watch the outdoors from inside your home. Another example is planting darker plants along pathways and installing low stairs so your vision-impaired, older dog could safely navigate the garden.
Give Your Pets Their Own Special Spots
Lots of popular pet-centric features are developed to provide pets a warm and fuzzy nook or hideaway. This will also lend a sense of comfort and security for furry pals that like contained spaces. This is particularly important for anxious pups that have yet to undergo a dog training session and until then can only control their anxiety when they’re alone and away from everyone.
These nooks can fit into unused areas like under the coffee table or under the stairs, or above the top shelf for climbing-obsessed cats. Incorporating such spaces for cats is easy, even if you lack space, since you can build these structures vertically.
Beyond providing your pets their own safe spaces, these features can make everyone’s life easier as well. A separate washing station, for example, will save you stress, money, and time.
Make Sure that Your Pet-centric Structures Are Safe and Sturdy
Working with professional builders is recommended for pet-friendly projects since structures such as catios or cat patios and elevated walkways, among others, must be secure and sturdy to prevent danger. For example, the stud placement and wall type must be considered when installing an indoor cat complex. Specific materials that can withstand occasional accidents are important as well.
The same logic applies when installing a catio since many foundations and decks are not accurately leveled. Experienced builders of pet structures are also adept at designing features that will go well with your home design and architecture. This will keep your home’s aesthetic intact and ensure that your new pet structures will blend in instead of being an eyesore.
Pet-Friendly Outdoor Structures Work Well Too
Catios are perfect examples of pet-friendly possibilities for cat parents looking to take advantage of their outdoor space when they remodel. Aside from providing cats fresh air, outdoor structures also help reduce problem behaviors.
For instance, if you are already having problems because of multiple territorial cats living in one roof or have cats that love dashing out once the door opens, this could certainly stress everyone out.
But an enclosed area such as a catio or some other outdoor recreation area could provide space for all your cats to stimulate their senses and stretch their legs. You don’t even need to add an enclosure or have a huge backyard since you can have these features built on a deck or balcony.
The bottom line—great pet-centric features that consider your pets’ specific wants and needs can be stylish, bring joy to your furry family members, and ensure that everyone can live together in harmony.