Pet-Friendly Features to Add to Your Kitchen Remodel

If you have pets, you most likely consider them part of your family. Hence, you would like to factor them in when planning a kitchen remodel. At first, this may sound a bit overboard since your fluffy friends do not do kitchen chores. However, they indeed use the kitchen space in one way or another. As a pet owner, you must ensure that your entire home is safe for Fluffy or Fido and that it represents a functional space in which everyone feels comfortable. So, the following are some great ideas for pet-friendly features to add to your kitchen remodel project.

Plan your kitchen remodel

First, you will need a sound plan before kicking off your kitchen remodel. As a homeowner, you will need to take into account your pet's particular needs and habits. You may consider various ways to get more storage space in your kitchen, but you will need to factor in whether that suits your four-legged friend's lifestyle as well. There are many innovative pet-friendly features you could add to your kitchen remodel. Nevertheless, you will have to plan the space accordingly without compromising the needs and comfort of your pet. Here are a few practical ways to organize your kitchen before starting the remodeling project.

Start by packing your kitchen appliances and utensils

Renovating any part of your household will require a good deal of organization. For one thing, you will have to remove most items to make the space suitable for work. But before you call in extra pair of helping hands, start preparing and packing loose items to move them somewhere else. Before proceeding with larger objects, it is best to move and pack small kitchen appliances and utensils first.

Arrange a pet sitter for your pet

As part of your kitchen remodeling preparation, consider that once it starts, your pet's comfort will be at stake. Most pets are startled by a noise or are afraid of any commotion in their home. So, with time to spare, think of a way to keep your furry friend off the work scene. You can consider hiring a pet sitter or looking up a facility offering pet-keeping services.

Determine the main objectives for the final outcome of your kitchen remodeling project

Depending on the way you choose to have your kitchen revamp done, you may as well take a trip for the duration of it along with your pet. Of course, if you are working with a contractor you can fully trust and depend upon, this is not off the charts. Either way, it is essential to know the type of results you expect to see upon completion of the renovation. For instance, a naturally bright and ventilated kitchen is the preference of many. And your pet is sure to love this concept too.

Proceed with moving bulky items to free up the space for remodeling

Once you have decluttered your kitchen and the small appliances are moved to a safe location, set on vacating the remaining furnishings. These should be large appliances, such as your fridge or oven. Hence, be ready for heavy lifting and prepare for the task with safety. For your optimal convenience, you can enlist professional movers' help for moving bulky items and have one less thing to worry about.

5 of the most practical pet-friendly features to add to your kitchen remodel

The kitchen is easily one of the essential areas of a home. And no matter if you are a passionate cook or not, you likely spend a great deal of time here. Owning a pet means that it probably accompanies you in the kitchen often. So, making your small kitchen more functional entails the safety and comfort of your furry friends. Thus, here are 5 top pet-friendly features to add to your kitchen remodel for the optimal outcome of your project.

Pet-friendly flooring

It's no secret that pets like resting on the floor. However, some surfaces are more friendly and easier to maintain than others. Some are more resistant to fur and soil, while others can be difficult to clean from those paw prints. Also, if your pet sheds, keep in mind that fur is more visible on darker surfaces. Laminate would be the ideal kitchen flooring for any pet owner. It is easy to clean, and it is relatively resistant to scratches. You may consider adding a rug or runner as a practical decorative element if you have a larger space. This way, you will provide a spot for your pet to lay on. Additionally, consider choosing something easy to wash or clean, as you will likely do this often.

Polished kitchen hardware

Sharp surfaces in the kitchen are dangerous for us humans, and so are they for your pet. Hence, among the most useful pet-friendly features you should incorporate in your kitchen remodel are rather smooth hardware finishes. Selecting the little details will not only help you make your kitchen yours, but you will have it much easier with the cleaning and polishing part. So, choose knobs over pulls, and steer clear from anything with sharp edges and corners.

Built-in pet bed or crate

A built-in bed or crate for your pet is a practical and aesthetically pleasing feature you should consider adding to your kitchen remodel. Seamlessly blended in the kitchen design, it will provide comfort on demand for your pet, and you will have fewer loose items to deal with.

Pull-out food and water dishes

Knocking or running into your pet's water or food bowl is not uncommon, especially in the kitchen. So, opt to have these essentials built-in in the kitchen design and keep your kitchen tidy and clean. Besides, you may consider adding build-in rubbish bins to your kitchen remodel. This way, you will prevent the curiosity of your four-legged friend from harming them.

Use cleaning products safe for your pet

Most cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that are not safe for humans and pets alike. Thus, once you have finished your kitchen remodel project, pay attention to the type of supplies you use to keep the heart of your home clean. Stash cleaning products that are environmentally friendly and safe for your pet.

In summary, these pet-friendly features to add to your kitchen remodel will give you the lead on how to plan your project effectively. And last but not least, renovating your kitchen is mostly about your particular lifestyle, and as a pet owner, you will surely benefit from making it a good place for your four-legged friend.