How to Create a Pet-Friendly Kitchen (That You'll Love Too)
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Let’s face it—pets aren’t just pets. They’re family—plain and simple. They steal our pillows, hog the couch, and somehow manage to make us feel guilty for using the can opener when it’s not for them. So it only makes sense that when you’re planning a kitchen renovation, your four-legged family members should be part of the design plan.
At Multi-Trade Building Services, we get it. We’re a pet-loving bunch through and through. Every single one of us has animals at home (and fur on our clothes to prove it). We’ve been known to give out nature breaks, refill water bowls, and even administer meds if your pets need them while you’re at work. We speak fluent “meow,” “woof,” and “oops-the-cat-got-into-the-cupboard-again.”
More than that—60% of our profits go straight to local animal rescues, and most of our free time is spent volunteering at local shelters and rescues. It’s our passion, our heart, and our way of giving back. So when we say we care about your pets, we don’t just mean during renovations. We mean always.
Why a Pet-Friendly Kitchen Matters
If you’re anything like us, you’re never in the kitchen alone. There’s always a tail-wagger underfoot, a whiskered face peeking from the windowsill, or a hopeful pup parked by the fridge like it's an automatic treat dispenser. So designing a kitchen that works for them too isn’t just smart—it’s essential.
A truly pet-friendly kitchen means:
A safe, secure layout (because “trip over the dog” isn’t a daily goal)
Easy-to-clean surfaces that can handle muddy paws and the occasional hairball
Thoughtful details that make life easier for everyone, human and animal
This isn’t about going over the top—it’s about recognizing that our pets are family. They deserve a space that considers their comfort, their needs, and their routines just like we do.
Real-Life Example: Meet Benny, the Beagle with a Built-In Buffet
One of our favourite renovations involved a retired couple in Courtice with a beagle named Benny who had a very refined palate (and by refined, we mean he could sniff out toast crumbs from a mile away).
The homeowners were constantly kicking over his water bowl or tripping over his food dish. So we designed a slide-out feeding station built right into their lower cabinetry—complete with a small drawer for his treats and medication. Not only did it make Benny’s mealtimes more comfortable (and stylish!), it made the kitchen feel more organized and intentional.
And the best part? Benny loved it. The second that drawer slid open, he came running like he’d just won The Price is Right.
Flooring That Can Keep Up With the Chaos (and the claws)
Let’s be real: your pets don’t care what your kitchen floors look like. But you do—and you also care that those floors can stand up to zoomies, wet paws, food spills, and the occasional "surprise" from your furry friend. So let’s talk options that balance beauty, durability, and sanity-saving ease of maintenance.
Tile: Classic, Cool, and Claw-Resistant
Pros:
Incredibly durable and nearly impossible to scratch (even with the most enthusiastic toe beans or claws).
Water-resistant and stain-proof, making cleanup a breeze.
Naturally cool—ideal for pets to lie on during hot weather.
Comes in endless styles, colours, shapes, and sizes.
Can add floor heat under tile floors in areas where your pets sleep
Cons:
Hard underfoot, which can be tough on older pets or those with joint issues.
Grout lines may require periodic cleaning and sealing to avoid staining.
Can be slippery when wet, especially for fast-moving paws.
Maintenance Tips:
Regular sweeping and mopping will keep things fresh. A quick spot-clean with a mild cleaner is all you’ll need for pet messes. For high-traffic areas, consider sealing your grout to prevent dirt buildup and stains. At Multi-Trade Building Services, we use a higher end grout that already has sealant right in it.
Pet Parent Tip: Add a soft mat or washable rug near feeding areas or favourite napping spots to give pets a more cushioned surface.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): The Overachiever of Pet-Friendly Flooring
Pros:
100% waterproof—perfect for drool, water spills, and the occasional accident.
Soft and slightly cushioned underfoot, making it easier on paws and joints.
Scratch- and stain-resistant—great for energetic dogs and cats who love to run laps.
Mimics the look of wood or stone without the maintenance or cost.
Cons:
Some lower-quality LVPs can dent if heavy furniture isn’t properly padded.
Can fade in direct sunlight over time (but most good brands now offer UV protection).
Not as “high-end” in feel as real hardwood or stone, though it comes impressively close.
Maintenance Tips:
Sweep or vacuum regularly, and mop with a vinyl-safe floor cleaner. No need for sealing or waxing. It’s one of the lowest-maintenance options out there—ideal for busy households (and those with shedding pets!).
Pet Parent Tip: Choose a textured finish to improve traction—your dog will thank you when they try to chase that rogue treat across the floor.
Laminate: Stylish on a Budget, with a Few Caveats
Pros:
Very scratch-resistant—great for households with multiple pets.
Comes in a huge range of styles and colours to mimic hardwood or tile.
Budget-friendly compared to real wood or stone.
Easy to install (if you’re the DIY type).
Cons:
Not all laminate is created equal—standard versions don’t hold up well to water.
Can be slippery for pets unless you choose a textured finish.
If water seeps into the seams, it can swell and warp over time.
Maintenance Tips:
Go for water-resistant or waterproof laminate (yes, it exists now!). Clean with a damp mop—not soaking wet—and use felt pads under furniture to avoid scuffing.
Pet Parent Tip: This is a great option if you want the look of hardwood without worrying about scratches—but avoid it altogether if your pet is prone to accidents and you’re not always home to catch them right away.
Stone: Durable, Elegant, and Built to Last (If You Don’t Mind a Bit of TLC)
Pros:
Extremely tough and durable—great for large dogs or high-traffic homes.
Natural variation makes each floor unique and visually stunning.
Cool underfoot, which many pets love (especially in summer).
Resistant to scratches and dents.
Cons:
Expensive to install, and stone tiles can be heavy—your subfloor needs to be ready.
Can be hard on joints (for both humans and pets).
Porous unless sealed regularly—can stain or absorb odours if not maintained properly.
Slippery when polished; go for a honed or textured finish instead.
Maintenance Tips:
Sweep or vacuum regularly, mop with a gentle cleaner made for stone, and reseal every 1–2 years depending on the stone type and traffic levels. Spot-clean spills quickly to prevent staining.
Pet Parent Tip: If your dog likes to flop in front of the fridge or stretch out in sunbeams, stone can be their dream bed—but if you’ve got a senior pet, consider some strategically placed non-slip mats or runners for comfort and safety.
Client flashback: We once renovated a kitchen for a family in Bowmanville with three rescue dogs—two golden retrievers and a dachshund. They specifically requested flooring that could handle mud, water bowls, and paws galore. We installed wide plank luxury vinyl throughout the kitchen and hallway. After the first rainstorm, they called us—not to complain, but to thank us for saving their sanity.
Thinking about renovating your kitchen?
Whether you're dreaming of a dedicated pet nook or a full kitchen transformation, we're here to help bring your vision to life—with every family member in mind. Explore our Kitchen Renovation Services page.
Built-In Pet Zones That Make Life Easier
Let’s be honest—if you’ve ever kicked a dog bowl across the kitchen or stepped in spilled water before coffee, you know that pet feeding areas deserve a little more thought.
Designing a built-in zone for your pet isn’t about spoiling them (okay, maybe a little). It’s about making life more convenient, safer, and let’s face it—less soggy.
Feeding Stations:
Built-in drawer units for food and water bowls—easy to tuck away and clean.
Slide-out trays that disappear under your cabinetry when not in use (bonus points if you store treats nearby!).
Freestanding raised feeders that match your decor and reduce neck strain for bigger dogs or aging pets.
And here’s a fun one we loved:
We once worked with a client who had us create a feeding station at the end of her kitchen peninsula. Her golden retriever, Bailey, had a dedicated nook for her bowls—but the client was always spilling water on the way from the sink. So she asked us if we could install a small pot filler-style faucet right above the dog’s water bowl area. Brilliant! Now she simply reaches over, fills the bowl in place, and doesn’t trail water across the kitchen. It's one of those little conveniences you never know you need until you have it.
Want to steal that idea? We fully support it. And yes—we can help you plan for it, too.
Resting Areas:
Pets love being close to the action—but preferably from a safe, cozy distance (especially when there’s chopping involved).
Under-cabinet nooks make excellent cuddle caves for cats and small dogs. Add a cushion, and you're good to go.
Window seats with storage underneath offer the perfect perch for curious cats (and jealous dogs).
Cozy corners with a bed and toys give pets a defined “chill zone” that feels like their own special territory.
And yes—we’ve had clients request heated floors in their dog’s designated nap zone. No judgment. We totally get it.
Safety First: Because the Dog Will Try to Eat That
Kitchens are full of things pets shouldn’t get into—sharp tools, cleaning chemicals, onions, chocolate… the list goes on.
Here’s how we help you create a safer space:
Childproof latches on low cabinets
Pull-out garbage bins (with secure lids!)
Tall pantry storage for food and treats
No-slip mats for senior pets who need extra grip underfoot
Story time: One of our clients in Oshawa had a large mixed-breed dog named Tank. Despite his name, Tank was terrified of the sound of the trash lid slamming shut. We installed a soft-close, pull-out garbage bin hidden behind cabinetry. Not only did it keep Tank from nervously pacing in the kitchen—it kept their toddler out of the compost. Win-win.
Choosing the Right Materials for the Realities of Pet Life
Let’s talk surfaces. Because if you’ve ever had a cat saunter across your counter with dirty paws, or a dog sneeze near your backsplash mid-chop, you know: materials matter.
Pet-Approved Choices:
Quartz countertops – Non-porous, tough as nails, and a cinch to clean
Tile or glass backsplashes – Stylish and easy to wipe down
Satin or semi-gloss paint – Perfect for wiping away wet nose smudges or fur tufts sticking to the baseboard
We once had a client paint their entire kitchen in a light beige before we started. They had three black cats. Let’s just say… we gently recommended a mid-tone grey with a satin finish. The thank-you text came a week later.
Bonus Features to Consider (Because You're That Pet Parent—And So Are We)
Want to go the extra mile? We’ve helped clients include:
Pet toy drawers tucked into the island
Custom cabinets for food and treat storage
Automatic water bowl fillers
Built-in gates that blend with cabinetry to keep pets safely out of the kitchen during cooking (or parties)
If you’ve got a wild idea, chances are we’ll be just as excited about it as you are.
Final Thoughts: It’s Not Just a Kitchen—It’s Their Home Too
This isn’t about being fancy or going overboard. It’s about love. It’s about creating a kitchen that works not just for cooking, entertaining, and midnight snacks… but also for wagging tails, purring loafs, and little paws curled up under the table while you sip your coffee.
We believe in renovations that honour the way you actually live. And for most of us, that means paws on the floor, pet beds in the corner, and treats in the drawer.
Still wagging your tail for more inspiration? These blogs might just hit the spot:
10 Tips for a Pet Friendly Renovation
A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Countertop for Your Kitchen
Our Best Kitchen Renovation Tips for a Successful Kitchen Makeover
The Luxury of a Heated Floor: Is it Worth it?
Ready to Design a Kitchen That Welcomes Every Member of Your Family?
We’d love to help. Whether your pet is a 100-pound gentle giant, a feisty feline, or a three-legged rescue who rules the house—we’ll work with you to design a kitchen that feels like home for everyone.
Give us a call. Or just send us a message with a pet photo—we love those too.
