Best Flooring for Pets: Top Pet-Friendly Options Compared

Cats and dogs are some of the most popular pets. The UK Pet Food (previously known as the PFMA) also states that Pet ownership has increased in the UK. If you’re a pet owner who lives with one or two furry friends (or even five – no judgment here), you already know that pets can bring endless joy as well as the occasional mess. Whether wet paw prints left by your dog or the persistent scratching of a cat who claims the flooring is their personal property, your floors can take a variety of damage.

Choosing the right flooring can make cleaning easier, prevent frequent repairs, and keep your home and pets comfortable and safe. From vinyl flooring to hardwood, tile, and carpet, we explore various popular flooring types and their pros and cons to decide which flooring suits your situation.

Key Factors to Consider for Choosing the Best Flooring for Pets

There are four factors that you should keep in mind when you want to choose the best flooring for pets:

Scratch resistance

Pets’ long nails can easily scratch your beautiful flooring. Therefore, you should consider scratch-resistant flooring for your pets.

Water resistance

Moisture is an inseparable part of living with pets. Waterproof or moisture-resistant flooring will save you a lot of hassle.

Traction

Smooth floors can be slippery for pets, leading to injuries. Look for textured or matte finishes that provide a bit of grip underfoot.

Comfort

Hard, cold floors might be durable, but they can be rough on older pets’ joints. Softer flooring is a better option. 

Ease of maintenance

Undeniably, the easier the flooring is to clean, the easier it will be to maintain. Floors that don’t trap pet hair and don’t require special cleaning products will make your life much easier.

Top Pet-Friendly Flooring Types 

Choosing the ideal flooring for pet owners is all about balance. You need flooring that can withstand muddy paws, the occasional accident, energetic jumps, and various toys without showing signs of wear and tear after many years. It should also be beautiful and affordable. Let’s take a closer look at each of the best home flooring options.

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is considered one of the best pet-friendly flooring options due to its excellent moisture resistance. It won’t absorb spills or accidents, preventing stains and unpleasant smells. Additionally, vinyl is tough enough to withstand the wear and tear from paws and claws and the hustle and bustle of everyday pet life.

Modern luxury vinyl flooring (LVT) is available in various stylish finishes designed to mimic the appearance of wood or stone. Not only is vinyl soft underfoot, making it comfortable for pets, but it also provides a safe surface.

The thicker the vinyl flooring, the more durable it will be and offer better resistance to jumps, scratches, moisture, and dents from heavy furniture or energetic running pets. If your dog is lightweight, has his nails trimmed regularly, and is well-behaved, LVT can be a smart and long-lasting investment (despite being on the pricier side)

Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is an affordable choice that offers great durability and beauty. This flooring is remarkably resistant to scratches and moisture (if you clean it immediately), especially if you choose high-quality varieties built with modern technology. Laminate’s versatility makes it ideal for various interior design styles, from contemporary to rustic. Ultimately, the hard surface of laminate is the best option for a home with an active lifestyle. However, it should not be overlooked that pets, especially dogs, can be slippery. Your pet may have difficulty getting proper traction without a rug or pad.

Tile Flooring (Ceramic and Porcelain)

Ceramic and porcelain tiles are fully waterproof and incredibly resistant to scratches, making them the toughest flooring options. Tiles are a worry-free solution for homes with energetic pets that can last decades.

For all its advantages, this type of flooring may not be comfortable enough. It is hard and has a cold underfoot, which may not be pleasant for pets. Additionally, the tiles can be slippery.

To reduce this problem, choose textured tiles or use area rugs in high-traffic areas. Heated floors can also help to warm up the space and provide a more comfortable surface for your pet to walk on.

Another consideration is grout lines. While the tiles themselves are nearly indestructible, the grout can be more vulnerable to stains and scratches. To avoid this problem, choose tiles with narrower grout lines, which make it harder for dirt and debris to accumulate.

Engineered and solid hardwood

Solid wood can be susceptible to scratches and dents over time. Still, if you love the feel and look of natural wood and want to avoid stress, engineered hardwood is a more forgiving option. However, while it is mainly composed of plywood, it still has a top layer of real hardwood, so it must be cared for against moisture and scratches. Both types of flooring are suitable for quieter, well-behaved pets. Both options can still be great and very pet-friendly, with trimmed nails and preferably mats in high-traffic areas. For a more comfortable feel, using hardwood from harder trees, such as maple, with a thick layer is better. Hardwood and engineered wood, although susceptible to damage, are easy to clean and help you maintain a fresh environment without hassle. Additionally, hardwood is hypoallergenic, so it does not trap dust, pet hair or dander, making it an excellent choice for people with allergies or sensitivities.

Carpet

The carpet is very cosy and brings a warm feeling into the room. However, you shouldn’t judge a flooring option only by its comfort level. Carpets can be a nightmare to keep clean; even with regular vacuuming, odours and smells can linger for a long time.

Carpet is also the worst choice for allergy sufferers because it can easily trap dirt, debris, and pet hair, leading to a build-up of allergens compared to other types of flooring. For pet owners, this can mean extra work to keep things clean, as fur tends to get everywhere, and the fibres can wear down over time due to scratching.

Some carpet textures can also cling to pets’ claws.

Best Flooring by Pet Type and Home Needs

Flooring that works well for a calm cat or a gentle puppy might not offer enough durability to withstand the energy and enthusiasm of a lively, boisterous dog.

Large dogs can be tough on the floor. Their weight, energetic play and long nails can easily scratch and wear down delicate surfaces. Choose scratch-resistant options like tile, luxury vinyl, or durable laminate with a thick wear layer for large breeds.

On the other hand, small dogs are less of a hassle. However, they can still get into accidents, so waterproof or water-resistant flooring like vinyl and tile are great choices. 

Cats are agile, quiet, and usually clean, but their claws can still cause damage. They also prefer quieter, softer surfaces to land on after jumping. Vinyl and luxury laminate with a heavy-duty wear layer are both good options for cats – they’re tough enough to resist scratches but still comfortable under their paws.

Best for Multi-Pet Households

You can rely on luxury vinyl or ceramic tiles if you have a home with multiple pets. They can handle numerous accidents and endless foot traffic. Plus, they’re easy to clean.

Best for Homes with Puppies or Older Pets

Older pets need better traction and prefer softer surfaces that support their joints. Waterproof vinyl is excellent here. It’s easy to clean and offers more comfort than tile. Remember, it is crucial to avoid slippery flooring for old pets.

Maintenance and Care Tips 

Maintaining your flooring is just as important as choosing the right type. Even if you choose the best flooring, you won’t be able to enjoy it for a long time if you don’t know how to keep it clean and cared for. Here are some essential tips for caring for your pet’s flooring:

• Placing a rug or mat in high-traffic areas, especially where pets tend to play or run, will help keep your flooring less susceptible to scratches and moisture. 
• Trimming your pet’s nails is another simple but effective way to minimise scratching. 
• Cleaning up any spills or messes in the shortest possible time is essential to prevent long-term damage. For example, vinyl and tile floors are water-resistant. However, moisture can still seep into the cracks if left untreated over time.
• Harsh chemicals not only put pets at risk but can also cause allergies in humans and damage flooring. Choose gentle, eco-friendly cleaners specifically designed for your flooring.
• A microfiber mop or a soft-bristled broom is the best tool for cleaning hard floors without scratching. If you have carpets or rugs, a pet-friendly vacuum with a HEPA filter can help reduce shedding and allergens in your home 

Conclusion

While comparing flooring can give you a better idea of ​​what is best for your pet, it ultimately comes down to your lifestyle and the type of animal you share your home with! Larger, heavier pets will need flooring more resistant to scratches and moisture. In comparison, quieter pets can go for more delicate flooring. If your pet listens to you, you can opt for solid and engineered hardwood. Still, if they are more energetic and boisterous, it is better to consider a more durable flooring option.

For any flooring queries, drop us an email at info@flooringsurgeons.co.uk – or Visit our showrooms located in Birmingham & Wolverhampton!

Halesowen

214A Dudley Road. Halesowen, Birmingham, B63 3NJ

0121 274 8575

Monday – Friday: 9 AM – 6 PM | Weekends: 10 AM – 4 PM

Wolverhampton

317 Penn Rd, Wolverhampton, West Midlands, WV4 5QF

01902 836666

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info@flooringsurgeons.co.uk

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