According to a new study, almost half of the UK’s pets have their own private rooms or designated outdoor areas to unwind in. The research, which surveyed 2,000 cat and dog owners, found that a substantial 48% have set aside a special space for their furry friends.
Pet owners are increasingly recognizing the importance of providing dedicated chill-out zones for their companions, with 55% prioritizing this aspect. Comfort is also a top priority, as 34% go above and beyond to ensure maximum coziness for their four-legged pals. Additionally, 30% of pet parents prefer to keep their animal’s gear organized in one tidy place.
However, for some pet owners (18%), the primary motivation behind creating pet-friendly spaces is to minimize clutter in other areas of the house.
The survey also highlighted that 46% of pet owners have gone as far as adapting their home decor to accommodate their animal companions. Despite this, 21% confess that they would not purchase pet-friendly items if they clashed with their home’s aesthetic.
Popular home modifications for pets include removing fragile items from reach (29%), installing cat flaps (21%), and adding garden fences (20%). Some pet owners have opted for hard flooring instead of carpets (16%) or invested in scratch-resistant furniture (11%). Darker decor is also favored by some (9%) as it effectively conceals pet hair.
A significant proportion of respondents (17%) use baby gates to contain their pets, while 19% rely on throws to cover damage caused by their furry companions. However, 38% express a need for more stylish pet-friendly home design ideas.
Balancing quality and affordability in pet products poses a challenge for many, as 75% of respondents find it difficult to locate suitable items. The study, conducted via OnePoll, also revealed that 41% of pet owners have found the cost of keeping an animal higher than anticipated, with insurance and food being major contributors to unexpected expenses.
Interestingly, 15% of pet owners spend more on their pets than on their children, vacations, or cars. On average, pet owners spend £708 annually on their animal companions. Financial constraints have led 59% to cut corners when purchasing pet products, particularly in areas such as food, toys, and bedding.
Despite these challenges, a representative from Homesense emphasized the importance of never compromising when it comes to pets, stating, “We’re a nation of animal lovers, and we believe you should never have to compromise when it comes to your pets.”
