Making Your Home Pet Friendly - Home Projects

When people consider valuable home projects, it is likely they think of all the same things: renovations, pools, and gardens. After all, you house is meant to be lived in. It is nice to have all your facilities in one spot, having your gym next to your bedroom which is next to your office… which is next to your kitchen. However, some projects that can benefit you and your hairier family members are the pet friendly ones. By hairy, we are not talking about your weird uncle, we are talking about your four-legged friends.?

A large conversation dividing the cat-owner community surrounds indoor versus outdoor cats. Several studies have shown that letting your cats roam the streets alone with the expectation they will eventually return is a terrible idea. From diseases, unwanted pregnancies, getting hit by a car, getting lost, to now increasing concerns about the environment, cat owners need to find a way around this nomadic lifestyle. Recent studies highlighting the effects of outdoor cats on the bird population have come to light; outdoor cats are responsible for an estimated 1.4-3.7 billion bird deaths across the USA each year (the Smithsonian Conservatory Biology Institute’s estimate is 2.4 billion), and 7-20 billion mammal deaths, according to a report by JSTOR’s Matthew Wills. For the safety of the environment, other animals, and your own pet, you now have an excuse for an exciting home improvement project: the catio. (Great idea and great name.)

Catios (cat-patios) are a recent trend in both home projects and pet care. The idea behind a catio is that your cat can hang out outdoors without the dangers associated with being a fully outdoor cat. Catios range from outdoor cage-like structures to larger play pens, even to tents. Many companies sell catios but you can easily build one yourself. Typically, the catio has multiple floors, somewhat resembling that of an indoor cat tree, for cats to perch on and sleep on. While many of the sold catios are portable, some are fixed structures attached to your home. Catios are also intended to house more than one of your cats (if they like each other) and are also suitable for kittens.?

For dog-owners, an obvious home improvement project is cultivating a beautiful backyard. While this does include having a spacious lawn with few obstacles for your dog to run around, hang out in, and do their business, there are several other things to consider. Having a good quality fence – or just having a fence in general, as many pet owners don’t – is essential if you want to let your dog outside. Many traditional working dog breeds, like collies and shepherds need a lot of stimulation. This can be tackled by having a large, fenced yard. The cherry on top can be an agility course for your dog to tire them out before they come back inside and tear up your house.?

Another popular idea are automatic dog doors. These are motion sensored doors, similar to a garage door, that opens when it detects the sensor on your dog’s collar. Many people who work away from home may worry about their dog getting enough exercise during the day or having accidents in the house but installing these doors that open directly into your fenced backyard will combat this.?

A common concern for many home owners is being able to install a quality security system with a pet living in the home. ADT Security has the answer. Advances in home technology now allow pet friendly motion sensors to be installed that are calibrated to adjust for the size and weight of the pets. Consultation at the time of the system’s installation can also ensure that the placement of the sensors provides protection for the home while reducing the opportunity of a false alarm from your pet having a little too much fun.

Finally, it may be a good idea to invest in durable flooring. One of the most recommended flooring types for durability is vinyl plank, which is waterproof and affordable. Natural stone, like granite and marble, are also some of the most sturdy materials. The hope is that durable flooring will prevent stains, chips, dents, and more.

Most people with pets in their home will agree; they are a member of the family. Making them feel comfortable and happy is a joy, not a burden. The struggle for most pet owners will be knowing when to stop and then having the discipline to do it. In the mean time, have fun.?