Lifestyle / 6 Complaints Desi Grandparents Have About Keeping Pets & How You Can Counter Them

Here’s How To Create A Chic & Pet-Friendly Living Space.

6 Complaints Desi Grandparents Have About Keeping Pets & How You Can Counter Them

Lifestyle Aug 30, 2024

by Kiran R. Khan | Features Editor - Lifestyle

Creating a pet-friendly home while maintaining a stylish environment can be a unique challenge, especially for desi parents and grandparents who often have specific concerns about keeping pets. Here’s a guide to addressing those concerns with practical solutions that balance tradition, aesthetics, and pet needs.

Concern 1: Pets Will Ruin Expensive Furniture

Common Complaint: Desi parents often invest in high-quality, often expensive furniture that they worry will be damaged by pets.

Solution:

Durable Fabrics: Opt for furniture with pet-resistant fabrics like leather or microfiber, which are easier to clean and less likely to be damaged. For a softer feel, tightly woven fabrics resist snagging and hair collection, keeping furniture in top condition.
Stain-Resistant Materials: Choose furniture treated with stain-resistant finishes or use removable slipcovers that can be easily washed. Darker colors and intricate patterns can also help camouflage fur and dirt, reducing the need for constant cleaning.

Concern 2: Floors Will Be Scratched or Stained

Common Complaint: Many desi households have hardwood or marble floors that they worry pets will scratch or dirty.

Solution:

Pet-Friendly Flooring Alternatives: Consider installing luxury vinyl, tile, or laminate flooring, which are not only stylish but also scratch- and water-resistant. These options offer the elegance of hardwood or marble without the maintenance hassle.
Area Rugs and Runners: Place washable, low-pile rugs in high-traffic areas. Patterns can hide stains and fur, while rug pads prevent slipping, making your home both safe and stylish.

Concern 3: Pets Will Chew or Destroy Houseplants

Common Complaint: Parents worry about pets eating plants, which could harm both the pet and the plant.

Solution:

Non-Toxic Plants: Choose pet-safe plants like spider plants, Boston ferns, or areca palms that are non-toxic if ingested. These plants also add a touch of greenery to your home without posing a threat to pets.
Strategic Plant Placement: Place plants on elevated stands or use hanging planters to keep them out of reach of curious pets. This not only protects the plants but also adds a decorative element to your home.

Concern 4: The House Will Look Messy

Common Complaint: Desi parents often prioritize cleanliness and organization, worrying that a pet will make the house look untidy.

Solution:

Hidden Litter Boxes: Incorporate litter boxes into cabinets or use stylish enclosures that blend with your decor. This keeps them out of sight and maintains a clean appearance.
Toy Storage: Use baskets or bins that match your decor to store pet toys. Opt for solutions with lids to keep toys out of sight when not in use, ensuring a clutter-free home.

Concern 5: Difficulty Keeping the Home Clean

Common Complaint: Maintaining cleanliness in a pet-friendly home can seem like an endless task, especially with shedding and pet odor.

Solution:

Regular Cleaning Routine: Establish a regular cleaning schedule to manage pet hair and dander. Vacuum frequently, especially in areas where pets spend a lot of time, and use lint rollers on furniture and curtains to keep them fur-free.
Pet-Safe Cleaning Products: Use non-toxic, pet-safe cleaning products to keep your home clean without compromising your pet’s health. These products ensure that floors, furniture, and surfaces are safe for both pets and humans.

Concern 6: Pets Will Create Unpleasant Odors

Common Complaint: There’s often concern about unpleasant pet odors lingering in the house.

Solution:

Washable Covers and Throws: Use machine-washable covers on sofas and beds to protect them from fur and spills. Wash these regularly to keep them fresh and odor-free.
Regular Pet Grooming: Regularly groom your pets to reduce shedding and odor. A well-groomed pet means a cleaner, fresher-smelling home.

By addressing these common concerns with thoughtful solutions, you can create a home that satisfies both the style-conscious and the practical needs of a desi household while ensuring a comfortable environment for your pet

Main Photo Credit: https://www.washingtonpost.com/

Kiran R. Khan | Features Editor - Lifestyle

Author

Kiran R. Khan (@kiranrkhanandco) is a journalism graduate from Sheridan College, possesses an extensive freelance portfolio encompassing various topics, including lifestyle posts and profile stories. Kiran loves to craft engaging content that resonates with readers, aiming to leave a lasting impress...

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6 Complaints Desi Grandparents Have About Keeping Pets & How You Can Counter Them

by Kiran R. Khan | Features Editor - Lifestyle

Concern 1: Pets Will Ruin Expensive Furniture

Concern 2: Floors Will Be Scratched or Stained

Concern 3: Pets Will Chew or Destroy Houseplants

Concern 4: The House Will Look Messy

Concern 5: Difficulty Keeping the Home Clean

Concern 6: Pets Will Create Unpleasant Odors

Kiran R. Khan | Features Editor - Lifestyle

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