Decorating a home with pets can be a creative and fun challenge, especially since nearly 70% of Australian households have a furry companion. Dogs make up about 48% of household pets and cats about 33%, so pet-proof decorating ideas are more relevant than ever. Here are some tips for pet-friendly décor that’s stylish and functional, inspired by my experience with my fawn pug, who sheds a lot of hair year-round!
1. Choose Pet-Friendly Colours and Materials
My pug’s neutral-coloured fur is a big help when decorating because it blends well with lighter-coloured surfaces, avoiding the stark contrast that darker colours would show. When choosing upholstery, rugs, and even curtains, consider your pet’s coat colour as a practical guide. Light floors, like mine, are great for disguising pet hair, but if you have darker-furred pets, you might prefer mid-tone carpets or rugs to balance visibility with style.
2. Invest in Washable Fabrics and Slipcovers
Sofas, cushions, and chairs take a lot of wear with pets around, so washable fabrics and slipcovers are a lifesaver. Covers make it easy to clean fur and handle the inevitable mess that comes with pet ownership, whether it’s a snuggly dog on the couch or a cat shedding fur by the window. Look for durable, easy-to-clean materials like velvet or performance fabrics that repel stains and resist scratches.
3. Furniture and Décor That Withstand Scratches
For cat owners or anyone with a pet prone to scratching, it’s wise to choose materials that can withstand claws. Leather is a solid choice, as it’s scratch-resistant and easy to clean. If leather isn’t your style, consider furniture with metal or hardwood frames, and keep your fabric choices thick and durable.
4. Embrace Pet-Friendly Floors
Flooring should be durable and easy to clean, especially if you have a dog who tracks in dirt or a cat that sheds. Hard floors like tile, sealed concrete, and laminate are fantastic for easy cleanup and can be softened with rugs. Just remember to choose washable rugs or ones that hide fur well, so your space stays tidy between vacuums.
5. Use Pet Colours as Inspiration
If you have colourful pets, like tropical birds, you can absolutely use their feather colours as inspiration! Parrots, for example, often have brilliant shades of green, red, blue, and yellow that can be echoed in accent pieces like throw pillows, artwork, or even a wall colour. Just be mindful to keep the colour scheme balanced, with your pet’s colours serving as bright accents rather than overwhelming the space.
6. Smart Storage for Pet Supplies
Keep pet toys, food bowls, and leads out of sight but easily accessible with clever storage solutions. A storage ottoman, for instance, can double as a place to keep toys while providing extra seating, and a stylish basket or drawer near the door can be perfect for leads and grooming supplies.
Decorating with pets in mind doesn’t mean sacrificing style—it just means finding a balance that fits your lifestyle and reflects the personalities of both you and your pets. With the right materials and a bit of creativity, your home can look beautiful and be a welcoming, comfortable space for every member of the family—furry friends included!