When it comes to protecting furniture against furry friend’s antics, it’s imperative to have durable décor—think easy-to-clean furnishings, area rugs, and slipcovers. Read on for the best accessories and our top tips to keep interiors in pet-proof shape.

UPHOLSTERY

Both pets and humans are guilty of being the culprits behind upholstery stains. To make sure your new couch or favorite chair stands the test of pets, kids, and time, stick to Fido-friendly fabrics, like indoor/outdoor and stain-repellant options. Crypton can endure both dirty pet tracks and party spills and is surprisingly comfortable; ultrasuede is also a great option, as spills can be easily wiped up and won’t get caught in little claws due to its weave; while leather repels stains and dirt but could potentially be damaged by rebellious scratching claws. 

SLIPCOVERS

If shelling out for a pet-friendly upholstery piece isn’t on the home improvement to-do list, slipcovers are easy upgrades that can help immensely when feathering your nest. Just be sure to keep an eye out for ones that don’t require dry cleaning. Investing in furniture with slipcovers can save you both time and hassle, keeping the focus on enjoying your furry friends instead of keeping everyone off the white chairs. 

AREA RUGS

Rugs are must-haves for every major room, tying in the décor and creating a cozy place for pets to curl up (that isn’t on your brand-new furniture). Opt for a pet-proof rug like an indoor/outdoor one that’ll keep stains away. The beauty of them is their ability to deflect dirt, spills, and stains—all while providing a relatively comfortable feel under those paws. Great for high-traffic areas and available in just about every pattern and color imaginable, they double as a way to play up your interior palette. If an indoor/outdoor one isn’t for you, stick to those with low-piles, small patterns, and dark colors, as they’ll make stains and dirt harder to see and keep cute little paws and claws from unhooking loops and destroying it come play time.

ACCESSORIES

Switch out seasonal accessories for ones that add pizazz and durability. A festive throw isn’t only great for providing extra coverage on sofas and seating areas, but it also adds a pop of color and pattern. Sisal rope can be a great remedy for unwanted cat scratching when wrapped around chair legs or poles; spice it up with alternating colored rope for a two-in-one decoration. 

LANDSCAPING

Pet-friendly furnishings aren’t the only things you need to consider, however: Outdoor accents like cut flowers and landscaping need to be kitty- and pup-friendly, too. Azaleas and lilies are well-known no-nos around animals, due to their toxicity, but many lesser-known ones are still commonly found in backyards and public spaces. Check the ASPCA’s poisonous plants list (aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants) to make sure those beautiful flower centerpieces won’t harm your beloved pet. 

By  Kerrie L. Kelly, FASID

Kerrie Kelly