Whether you’re a dog lover, cat owner, or the proud parent of a rabbit or parrot, your home should be a safe, comfortable space for everyone, including your pets. At Oraanj Interiors, we believe that beautiful interiors and pet ownership can go hand in paw. You don’t have to sacrifice style for practicality.

Here are our top interior design ideas to help you create a pet-friendly home that’s stylish, functional, and easy to maintain.

1 . Durable and Pet-Safe Flooring

Let’s start from the ground up. Flooring is one of the most important elements in a pet-friendly home. It needs to withstand claws, fur, and the occasional muddy pawprint.

Top flooring options for pet owners:

Luxury vinyl flooring: Durable, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean.
Porcelain or ceramic tile: Great for high-traffic areas and resistant to water and stains.
Sealed hardwood or engineered wood: Choose a matte finish to hide scratches better.

Avoid wall-to-wall carpet where possible, especially in areas your pets frequent—it traps hair, odours, and allergens.

2 . Choose Upholstery That’s Easy to Clean

Your sofa is often your pet’s favourite perch. Selecting the right fabric can make a huge difference in terms of maintenance and longevity.

Best pet-friendly upholstery fabrics:

Leather: Easy to wipe down, though susceptible to scratches.
Microfibre or tightly woven fabrics: Durable and resistant to claw marks.
Indoor/outdoor fabrics: Originally made for patios, they’re now popular indoors for their water- and stain-resistant qualities.

Opt for removable, washable slipcovers for the best of both worlds—style and convenience.

3. Built-In Pet Zones

Designating areas specifically for your pets ensures a harmonious cohabitation. Whether it’s a nook under the stairs, a built-in feeding station, or a cosy pet bed integrated into cabinetry, having a spot just for them will help reduce clutter and make your home feel more organised.

Consider adding:

A built-in bench with a pet bed drawer
Mudroom cubbies with hooks for leashes and pet jackets
Pet feeding stations with pull-out drawers for bowls

These bespoke features can be customised to match your home’s aesthetic.

4 . Stylish Storage for Pet Essentials

From toys and treats to grooming tools and accessories, pets come with lots of “stuff.” Incorporate stylish storage solutions that blend into your existing decor:

Decorative baskets and bins
Lidded containers for food and treats
Wall-mounted organisers for leads, poop bags, and brushes

This helps keep things tidy and ensures that everything your pet needs is within reach, without looking like a pet shop exploded in your living room.

5 . Pet-Safe Plants and Decor

Plants bring life to any space, but some are toxic to animals. Opt for pet-safe plants like spider plants, areca palms, or calatheas. Avoid lilies, philodendrons, and pothos if you have curious pets.

Also consider using weighted or stable decorative objects that can’t easily be knocked over by wagging tails or bounding paws.

6 . Washable Rugs and Throws

Rugs add warmth and texture to your interiors, but they can also be magnets for fur and pet mess. Choose washable rugs made of synthetic fibres or invest in an outdoor rug with an indoor look—they’re low-pile, tough, and easy to clean.

Use throws on sofas or beds to protect your main upholstery while adding a stylish accent. Go for dark tones or patterned fabrics to help disguise fur and stains between washes.

7 . Keep Claws in Mind: Wall Finishes and Paint

Pet claws can do a number on walls, especially in narrow corridors. Use durable, scrubbable paints like eggshell or satin finishes to keep walls clean with minimal effort.

For high-impact zones, consider wall panelling, beadboard, or even tile up to dado height—it’s a great way to protect your walls while adding a decorative touch.

Final Thoughts

Creating a pet-friendly home doesn’t mean giving up on good design. With a few clever adjustments, you can enjoy a space that reflects your style while accommodating your pets’ needs. From scratch-resistant fabrics to bespoke pet zones, the possibilities are endless.

At Oraanj Interiors, we specialise in custom interior solutions tailored to your lifestyle, including your furry family members. Get in touch to explore how we can help design a pet-friendly, stylish home you’ll both love.