Kitchen Remodel: 8 Pet-Friendly Features to Add

Pets are amazing creatures that bring joy to our lives in many ways. They provide us with companionship, love, and loyalty. 

Further, studies have shown that they can improve our overall health and well-being. So, it's no wonder that we love to include them in our lives as much as possible, including giving them their own special places in our homes.

If you're planning a kitchen remodel and you have pets or are thinking of getting a pet in the near future, here are eight great ideas;

1. Install an Easy to Clean Floor

Pets can be messy eaters, and dogs have a tendency to track in mud and dirt from outside. So, one of the best things you can do to make your kitchen more pet-friendly is to install a floor that's easy to clean.

Many types of floors fit this bill, including tile, laminate, and vinyl. These materials are durable and water-resistant, making them ideal for withstanding spills and pet accidents. And they can all be easily wiped clean with a mop or cloth.

2. Add a Pet Station

If you have the space, add a dedicated pet station to your kitchen remodel. This could be something as simple as a raised platform with a built-in food and water bowl or a more elaborate setup with storage for pet food, toys, and supplies.

A pet station is a great way to keep your furry friend out of the way when cooking or cleaning up in the kitchen. And it can help to minimize messes by giving your pet a designated eating and drinking area.

3. Include Built-In Storage for Pet Food

If you don't have the space for a pet station, or if you just want to be able to keep your pet food out of sight, built-in storage is a great option. You can add a few extra cabinets to your kitchen remodel to create a dedicated spot for pet food and supplies. Or, if you're planning a pantry remodel, include some shelves or drawers for pet food storage.

4. Choose Pet-Friendly Countertops

When it comes to countertops, there are a few things to keep in mind if you have pets. First, you'll want to avoid materials that are easily scratched or stained, like wood or marble. Second, you'll want to make sure the surface is smooth and non-porous so that it's easy to clean and won't harbor bacteria.

And third, you may want to consider a heat-resistant material in case your furry friend decides to use the counter as a nap spot. Some great pet-friendly countertop materials include quartz, granite, and solid surface.

5. Add Rugs or Runners

If you have a hard floor in your kitchen, consider adding rugs or runners to create a softer surface for your pet to walk on. This can be especially helpful if your pet is older and has joint pain.

Just be sure to choose rugs or runners that are easy to clean and stain-resistant. And avoid materials like wool or shag, which can be difficult to clean and may harbor pet hair and dander.

6. Keep Things at Pet Level

If you have low cabinets in your kitchen, consider keeping some things at pet level so that your furry friend can help themselves. This could include a food or water bowl, a toy box, or a bed.

7. Install a Pet Door

Consider installing a pet door in your kitchen if you have an outdoor space for your pet to play in. This will give your furry friend easy access to the outdoors and help keep them from tracking mud and dirt into the house.

8. Use Pet-Friendly Cleaning Products

Finally, be sure to use pet-friendly cleaning products in your kitchen. This will help keep your furry friend safe from harmful chemicals and make cleaning up any accidents easier.

 Are you planning a kitchen remodel soon and have pets? Edesia Kitchen & Bath Studio can help. We are an award-winning kitchen designer in Boston, MA, specializing in creating beautiful and functional kitchen spaces. We can help you create a pet-friendly kitchen that meets the needs of both you and your furry friend. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

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