Dog Chewing Furniture

 

Here in the United Kingdom, we are a nation of animal lovers and according to the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association 2014 statistics, 24% of households had a dog, with 18% owning a cat. They can be companion, protector and even a disability tool. But it’s not all plain sailing, as pets cause over £3bn of damage to homes every year. So what are the sensible precautions to take if you’re contemplating buying or adopting a cute canine or fluffy feline?

Poisons

 

It’s almost impossible to stop cats and dogs vomiting altogether, however to reduce having to clean expensive rugs and upholstery, keep all the known toxic substances out of reach. Human foods they shouldn’t ingest include chocolate, onions, grapes (and raisins), xylitol (artificial sweetener), macadamia nuts, alcohol, caffeine, blue cheese and mouldy foods. In addition, cooked bones can cause mechanical problems and dairy can also cause diarrhoea. As cats are fond of eating plants, avoid keeping lilies, as severe kidney failure can result. Naturally any medicines and cleaning products should be stored securely, remembering that cats can reach very high shelves.

Shedding

 

If you have your heart set on a particular breed, there’s little you can do to stop them losing fur, which gets everywhere, particularly where cats are concerned. Although it may not bother the owner, this deposited fur can aggravate visitors’ allergies and/or breathing problems. Fortunately, there are vacuum cleaners with special filters that are designed to remove the fur and dander. For a list of those recommended by Allergy UK, click here. Of course there are breeds that shed less. Dogs such as poodles, Bedlington terriers or Irish water spaniels don’t moult and the Kennel Club have a comprehensive list. If you’re into cats, then opt for a Cornish Rex, Bengal or Javanese.

Dogs Chewing and Cats Scratching

 

A dog can chew out of boredom and frustration. If your dog chews on furniture legs, cushions or anything it shouldn’t, look for the root cause. Is it being left alone too much and is it lacking mental stimulation? When you see your dog commit this crime, firmly say “No!”, then give it a chew toy. When the pooch chews on it, give it a treat and some praise. Eventually, the message will sink in. Avoid getting angry; use a voice and attitude that is calm but firm. Unfortunately, it’s more problematic getting cats to stop scratching. You can buy a scratching post for every room but they could still prefer your sofa or curtains. Techniques such as spraying your pet with water have limited success but you can actually train a cat. As soon as the cat comes into your home, put treats and toys with catnip near the scratching post. Every time it uses the post, reward it with loves and treats. During the training period, tie up long drapes and cover furniture with plastic. Of course, you can also make sensible choices, such as opting for a wooden headboard for your divan, such as the Oxford Contemporary Oak, rather than an upholstered model, which would act like a magnet for your feline. If all efforts fail, you can get humane claw caps, which are far preferable to having your cat declawed.

 

 

Most people who adore their pets will accept the inconvenience that accompanies them, however it is possible to keep this to a workable level.