Pets fuel love, warmth, and joy into our lives. They are more than just animal companions. In the right environment–they become a member of your family. But while your furry friends are giving you so much – it's only reasonable that you provide them with a safe, pet-friendly home where they can thrive.

Whether you have a curious kitten, a playful puppy, a hopping bunny, or more mature furry companions, use these six tips to transform your home into a stylish pet haven.

Go for Durable and Easy-to-Clean Options (Always)

Pets can be messy, especially as they grow accustomed to new homes. However, much of the damage this new phase will cause can be averted by opting for durable, easy-to-clean, and scratch-proof materials. 

Non-slip flooring, for example, is non-negotiable. Avoid smooth, slippery marbles and hardwood floors. A tiled floor, in contrast, will offer a better grip and can withstand pet-infused wear and tear. 

The same goes for fabrics. Choose spill-resistant fabrics like Crypton, canvas, leather, or denim and easy-to-maintain shortlists like stains. Textured and patterned textiles will help camouflage pet hair and even minor scratches and stains.

A Dedicated Space- The Cozier the Better

Carving out a corner of your home specifically for pets will prevent them from seeking refuge in dangerous areas like the kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room. Create a pet-specific area with the following:

• A cozy bed

• Freshwater sources

• Adequate storage for pet supplies

• Safe toys

For dogs, a mudroom with access to a fenced yard is ideal. 

A small fenced-in "run" in your living room will make playtime fun for smaller pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters.

However, ensure the run is equipped with comfortable bedding – hay for your pet –to promote their natural behavior at home. The hay bedding will also double as a food source for rabbits and guinea pigs. 

Avoid Carpets

Say no to rugs and carpets because they are like magnets for shedding fur. While they can provide a comfortable, cushy environment for your pets, they'll soon be overflowing with trapped fur, dirt, odors, and dander—forming the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. 

Instead, opt for stylish but pet-friendly flooring–at least in the areas your pet can explore around the house. 

Choose Pet-Friendly Window Treatments

Windows treatments are often overlooked when it comes to getting your home ready for pets. However, some options, such as blinds with long cords, can be dangerous for your furry friends if they get entangled accidentally. So, instead, opt for cordless blinds or short cords that are out of reach.

Window films are also a great alternative since they can be directly attached to the glass–eliminating the dangling cords. If you want to take the films down once in a while, go for ones with static cling application since they can be easily removed and applied again. 

Special and Stylish Installation

Every pet has a particular need–space to retreat, a spot to admire nature, or the freedom to roam. Luckily, with modern, stylish installation, you can prepare your home for your pets' needs. 

Here are a few examples:

If you have a curious cat that loves bird-watching–consider adding preaches near the window in the form of floating shelves. They'll add a decorative appeal to your windows while giving the cats a safe area to indulge in curiosity.

Inclosed patios, or catios, are also great options for giving your cats, puppies, and other small pets an outdoor space to get fresh air and sunshine. They can be a simple window box or an elaborate outdoor space with multiple levels and tunnels.  

Similarly, custom built-in kennels that match your home's architecture and interior style can be a great addition to your dogs. They'll give your dog a safe, cozy, and dedicated corner in the home while complementing your home's aesthetic. 

Safety Should be Your Top Priority

Safe pet homes keep everything potentially dangerous out of sight, if not out of the house altogether–and you should too. This means:

• Keep all the chemicals and cleaning products locked away in cupboards or drawers

• Choose pet-friendly furniture, like tables and chairs, with rounded edges and materials that can withstand your pets

• Place your trash in tight-fitting lids to keep your pets from scavenging in them

• Don't leave anything that you can possess choking hazard out in the open

• Always keep the toilet lid down

• The best of all is to add pet doors to restrict them from the no-go areas (kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, etc.)

These few precautionary steps will ensure your pets can explore the home safely, even without supervision. 

The Finishing Touches to Your Pet Haven

Being a pet parent is one of the most rewarding experiences, but it certainly comes with its own set of quirks.

The trick to happiness lies in creating your home with elements that reflect your love for your furry friends–a place where you and your pets can thrive. 

The above six tips are easy ways to get started on this journey. As your pets grow, keep adding more elements to the house to make them feel safe, comfortable, and loved in their shared home. 

Jenny Kakoudakis likes to blog about interiors. She launched the award-winning Seasons in Colour in 2014. When she is not chasing criminals out of the financial system (her day job), she gets creative by redecorating her own home.

Download her free bathroom renovation guide here.