Pets bring endless joy, but they can also cause a fair share of wear and tear on your home. From scratched floors to chewed-up furniture, pet-related damage can add up fast. The good news? Many common issues can be prevented with the right strategies and pet-friendly solutions.
Here are 10 common home repairs caused by pets—and how to stop them before they start.
1. Scratched Floors
Dogs and cats can leave deep scratches on hardwood floors, especially when they run or play. Prevent damage by keeping nails trimmed, adding area rugs or runners in high-traffic areas, and choosing scratch-resistant flooring like luxury vinyl or tile.
2. Chewed Furniture and Baseboards
Puppies and some adult dogs love to chew, leaving furniture legs and baseboards in ruins. Provide plenty of chew toys, use bitter-tasting sprays on furniture, and redirect destructive chewing to safe alternatives.
3. Stained Carpets and Rugs
Accidents happen, but pet stains can be tough to remove if left untreated. Blot messes immediately, use an enzyme-based cleaner to break down odors, and train pets with consistent bathroom routines to minimize accidents.
4. Torn Window Screens
Cats and dogs can tear screens by scratching or pressing against them. Upgrade to pet-resistant screens made of stronger mesh, keep nails trimmed, and add a perch or window seat to give pets a designated lookout spot.
5. Damaged Doors and Door Frames
Anxious pets may scratch at doors when left alone. Protect doors by using kick plates or clear plastic guards. Address separation anxiety with training, puzzle toys, and gradual desensitization to being alone.
6. Clawed-Up Furniture
Cats love to scratch furniture, especially sofas and chairs. Provide sturdy scratching posts, use furniture protectors, and try cat deterrent sprays. Regular nail trimming or soft claw caps can also help.
7. Muddy Walls and Paw Prints Everywhere
Excited dogs can leave muddy streaks on walls after outdoor play. Prevent the mess by wiping paws at the door, using washable wall paint, and adding a protective wall covering near entryways.
8. Clogged Drains from Pet Hair
Bathing your pet can lead to serious drain clogs over time. Use a drain cover or hair catcher, brush pets before bathing to remove loose fur, and clean out drains regularly to avoid blockages.
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9. Torn Curtains and Blinds
Cats and dogs love to peek outside, often bending blinds or tearing curtains in the process. Opt for pet-friendly window treatments like cordless blinds, sturdy shutters, or placing furniture away from windows to reduce temptation.
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10. Fence and Yard Destruction
Digging, chewing, or jumping can wreak havoc on fences and landscaping. Reinforce fence bottoms with chicken wire, provide designated digging spots, and use deterrents like citrus peels or motion-activated sprinklers to keep pets away from trouble areas.
Pets and a well-kept home can coexist with a little planning. By making a few adjustments, you can minimize damage and avoid costly repairs—while still giving your furry friend the freedom to be themselves!
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