5 Features of a Pet-friendly Kitchen

These days, many people with pets refer to them as members of their family. We often exercise together, lounge together, and even sleep together. If you count yourself as one of these people, are you taking into account your pet’s needs when thinking about your lifestyle for your kitchen remodel? Planning for your pets in your design can make your new kitchen safer and more comfortable for your pets and your family.

Dog beds can be an eyesore in your newly remodeled kitchen. They are big, lumpy, and can take up valuable space that could otherwise be used for additional seating for your guests. Consider creating a space for your pup on the endcap of the kitchen island. This way, your furry friend can feel close to you while everyone is gathered in the kitchen, without being underfoot.

Another option for the kitchen island is a dedicated feeding station for your pets. This helps keeps your kitchen organized and all of the pieces related to your pet’s mealtime together including bowls, food, treats, etc. This is also convenient should you have a dog-walker or pet-sitter responsible for feeding Fido.

If you have cats, you know just how nimble they can be. Whether or not they are welcome to, many cats can easily jump onto countertops and therefore could just as easily step on a hot stovetop. When choosing new appliances, consider an induction stove which only heats the surface of the pan or one with quick-cooling burners.

Although you love them, there are times when it is simply unsafe to have your pets underfoot. When cooking hot food and using potentially harmful cleaning products, it’s better to keep your pets out of the way. A built-in gate is a no-fuss way to keep them out while hot plates and sharp objects are moving around the kitchen.

The tiny paws of your favorite furry friends are so cute until they’ve scratched up your newly refinished floor. Keep this in mind when choosing flooring type and finish. You’ll want something that simultaneously won’t show scratches so easily and will be easy to clean.

Our pets are a big part of our lives and therefore, need to be a part of our remodel. Modern kitchens make this easy with many options specifically designed to incorporate room for pets in kitchen designs. Ask a Fairview representative near you about options to incorporate your pet into your next design.