Sit, Stay, Style: Pet-Friendly Design That Doesn’t Compromise on Looks.
Let’s be honest: adding pets to a beautifully curated home can sometimes feel like choosing chaos...in a fur coat. And I say this from fresh, firsthand experience.
After years without cats (our last ones were part of the family before our kids could even walk!), we’ve just welcomed two incredible young adult black female rescues into our home - and we are so in love. We’ve always had a soft spot for rescue cats, and now that the kids are older, the time felt right to bring that energy back into our space. It’s been pure joy - and also a swift reminder of what it’s like to decorate around zoomies, litter box “fragrance,” and mysteriously disappearing houseplants.
I’m suddenly remembering all the little things I used to obsess over:
“What’s that smell?”
“Was that chair always scratched like that?”
“Why is there a tail sticking out of my fern?”
Let’s just say…I forgot how real the cat-parent design challenges can be.
This blog post is for anyone who's ever had to pause a Pinterest scroll to chase a cat off the curtains - and for those of you welcoming pets back into your life after years away. It’s a guide to help you manage the transition, embrace the fur, and still have a home that reflects your personal style and your love for animals. So whether you're a seasoned pet parent or a newly initiated member of the "my decor is now shared property" club - read on for my favorite interior design tips for making your space both beautiful and pet-ready.
1. Choose Pet-Friendly Fabrics (That Still Look Chic).
Opt for durable, performance fabrics that can stand up to claws, drool, and shedding. Look for materials like:
Crypton or Sunbrella fabrics: stain-resistant, odor-resistant, and moisture-resistant - without looking like outdoor furniture.
Microfiber: tightly woven, making it harder for pets to scratch and dig into.
Velvet (surprisingly!): it’s less prone to trapping pet hair than other woven fabrics and looks luxurious. Choose darker shades to mask dirt.
Pro Tip: Skip silk, chenille, or tweed, which can snag easily or trap fur.
2. Rugs That Work as Hard as You Do.
Rugs add warmth, texture, and a sense of place in a room - and they can also take a beating from pets. Choose rugs that are:
Low-pile or flat-weave for easy cleaning.
Made from indoor-outdoor materials like polypropylene for extra durability.
Patterned or multi-tonal to help disguise pet hair and paw prints.
Bonus Tip: Use a washable rug or layer with a washable runner in high-traffic pet zones.
3. Elevate Their Style (and Yours) with Stylish Pet Accessories.
Your pet’s gear doesn’t have to be an eyesore. Today’s market offers design-forward options for:
Pet beds that blend with your furniture (think mid-century wood or neutral boucle). I want to say rattan but our cats in particular are currently shredding it like cheese.
Food bowls in ceramic or stainless steel with clean lines and modern bases.
Toy storage baskets in woven or canvas materials that match your decor style.
Home Goods has an amazing and stylish pet section BTW! Super stylish and on trend options for you to peruse. Remember to treat pet items as you would any other decor accessory - integrated and intentional.
4. Protect Your Furniture the Smart Way.
If your pet loves lounging where you do, protect your investment:
Add machine-washable throws or stylish slipcovers that can be laundered easily.
Use furniture protectors under cushions to deter accidents from soaking in.
Keep a lint roller or pet hair brush in a drawer nearby for quick clean-ups.
These small adjustments let you keep your statement pieces while making them more resilient.
5. Designate Pet Zones That Feel Thoughtful, Not Tacked On.
Give your pet a defined space of their own - a built-in nook under the stairs, a cozy corner bed, or a stylish crate in a quiet spot. When thoughtfully integrated, these areas can complement your room layout and show off your attention to detail.
6. Plants and Decor: Pretty and Pet-Safe.
Many popular houseplants are toxic to pets, so choose greenery that’s both safe and stylish, like:
Spider plants
Areca palms
Boston ferns
Prayer plants
You can also add your greenery from above! Hang your plants with a cute wall hook from the ceiling to make them out of reach, especially for cats. That way you can still have some green in your home, just not as accessible. And when accessorizing with candles, diffusers, or ceramics, ensure they’re placed out of paw’s reach or are made from non-toxic materials.
7. Color Palette Considerations.
Match your color palette to your pet - like, really. If you have a black lab, maybe avoid a white sofa. A sandy-haired golden retriever? Consider warm neutrals. This tip alone can make upkeep feel much easier.
Final Thoughts: Your Home, Re-imagined for Everyone.
You don't need to compromise elegance for the sake of your pets - you just need to design with them in mind. With thoughtful materials, smart layouts, and a few clever tricks, you can build a home that’s as stylish as it is pet-friendly.
After all, good design is about harmony - and there’s nothing more harmonious than a home where every family member feels at ease.
xoxo
Kym
