Pets are part of the family, and their needs (and demands) play an important part in choosing new floors. From pet-friendly carpet to anti-slip flooring for dogs, there are numerous options available to protect your floors from the scratches and accidents that are inherent to pet ownership.
For the best durable flooring options for pets, explore these five pet-friendly choices that strike a balance between brilliance and resilience.
The Three Best Flooring Options for Pet Owners
From energetic and untrained puppies to senior felines, pets often have a bigger impact on the longevity of flooring than humans (spills and furniture scrapes aside). The key to finding good flooring for dogs and cats is to recognize the strengths and weaknesses of various flooring materials.
- Vinyl Flooring: Both luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and luxury vinyl tile (LVT) are considered the best flooring options for pet owners. Vinyl flooring is effectively waterproof when professionally installed and sealed, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean. Vinyl flooring is pet-friendly in other ways, too, as it's softer and warmer underfoot (or paw) than tile, which is particularly beneficial for senior pets.
- Tile Flooring: Tile actually outperforms vinyl in terms of water-resistance and scratch-resistance because of its extreme density. It’s impervious to pet urine and easy to clean, but it does have some drawbacks. It’s cold and hard underfoot and tends to be more expensive than most vinyl products. Consider reserving tile for entryways and laundry rooms, where dirty paws tend to track in the most dirt and grit.
- Laminate Flooring: High-quality laminate flooring with a tough wear layer (think AC4 or AC5) and a high water-resistance rating can be a cost-effective, pet-friendly flooring option. Not all laminate products are created equal; when possible, choose a waterproof product or one with a high water-resistance rating.
Are Hardwood Floors Bad for Dogs?
Hardwood and engineered wood floors present challenges to owners and pups alike. In many cases, wood floors are:
- Most wood floors are slick for dogs, which can add stress on joints or cause injury, especially in very active and senior dogs.
- Easy to dent. Wood floors tend to scratch and dent easily due to dog nails. Running, playing, or simply stopping can leave lasting marks on even high-quality, professionally installed wood floors.
- Urine trouble. Urine (and vomit) can stain wood floors and the smell can linger for years. Most wood finishes offer a degree of protection, but prolonged exposure can still damage both the finish and the wood underneath. Dog and cat urine and hardwood floors are a dangerous mix; puppies and “forgetful” seniors can be a real challenge.
If you’re thinking about wood floors as a pet owner, look for a dense wood species (think hickory or maple), a durable, pre-finished product, and a light color to hide scrapes. Get in touch for more helpful ideas from our experienced team.
What Is the Most Pet-Friendly Carpet?
Regina-area residents love carpeting, and it’s still a viable option if you look for the right products. We recommend nylon or Triexta (also known as SmartStrand by Mohawk), both of which are stain and odor-resistant.
It’s also important to look for cut-pile carpet to avoid pets snagging their claws, and it’s typically easier to clean than loop-pile carpet. Finally, consider a multi-color pattern to hide any unavoidable stains. Ask about Shaw Floors’ pet-friendly carpet options and ideas from other manufacturers during your free, in-home consultation.
A Perfect Home for The Whole Family
Create a comfortable, beautiful home for the people and pets you love with Floor Coverings International® of Regina. Our knowledgeable staff of local flooring pros will help you find the flooring materials that meet your unique needs as well as those of your beloved pets. Let us bring over 3,000 flooring options to your doorstep with our Mobile Flooring Showroom®, serving Moose Jaw, Indian Head, and beyond.
Schedule your free, in-home consultation today to get started!
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