Cat and dog friendly rugs for homes with pets
Pets and good rugs can live together. The trick is choosing the right pile, weave and fibre, and having a cleaning plan. Here is what to look for.
What to look for
| Feature | Choose | Avoid | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pile | Low or medium cut pile, flatweave | Deep shaggy, long loops | Hair vacuums out; claws do not catch |
| Weave | Tight, dense | Loose loops, chunky jute | Claws snag loops and pull them |
| Fibre | Polypropylene, polyester, wool | Viscose, jute | Synthetics resist water-based accidents; viscose and jute mark with water |
| Colour | Mid-tones, patterns, close to your pet's coat | Very pale or very dark solids | Hides hair and paw prints |
| Care | Washable designs | Dry-clean-only rugs | Accidents happen |
Browse washable rugs, low pile rugs and polypropylene rugs.
Cat friendly rugs
Cats like to knead and scratch, so loop-pile rugs, which are rugs made from uncut loops of yarn, can snag claws and pull threads. A cut-pile or flat-weave rug is usually a safer choice. Low-pile and patterned designs also hide hair and small marks better than plain light colours. If accidents are a concern, choose a rug labelled washable by the maker, such as those in our washable rugs collection, and blot any mess straight away. Fine fibres and delicate viscose blends are best kept for pet-free rooms.
Removing pet hair
- Vacuum slowly, twice in different directions, with suction only on delicate rugs.
- A rubber glove or rubber broom drawn across the pile lifts embedded hair.
- Groom pets regularly, especially in spring and autumn moults.
Muddy paws
Let mud dry, then break it up and vacuum. Treat any remaining mark with a little mild detergent in cool water, blotting. Keep a washable mat or runner by the back door. See kitchen rugs.
Accidents
- Blot up as much as possible with kitchen paper, pressing hard.
- Dab with cool water, then with one part white vinegar to two parts water; blot again.
- Use an enzyme cleaner (safe for the rug's fibre) to break down odour so pets do not return to the spot.
- Dry thoroughly; for washable rugs, wash as the care label says.
Avoid ammonia-based cleaners: the smell can attract pets back to the same spot.
Habits that help
- Trim claws regularly.
- Give pets their own bed or blanket so the rug is not their favourite spot.
- Use a non-slip underlay: older dogs struggle on rugs that slide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best rug material for dogs?
Polypropylene and polyester are practical because water-based accidents do not soak in quickly. Wool is durable and hides dirt but needs quick action on accidents.
Are shaggy rugs bad for pets?
Deep shaggy piles trap hair and are harder to clean, so they are not ideal for pets that shed heavily.
Do cats scratch rugs?
Some do, especially loop piles and jute. A tight cut pile or flatweave and a scratching post nearby help.
How do I stop my dog chewing the rug fringe?
Choose rugs without a fringe, or tuck the fringe under, and give the dog a chew toy instead.
What is the best rug for cats?
A low or cut-pile rug, or a flat-weave rug, without loops that claws can catch. Patterned or mid-tone colours hide hair best.
Are jute rugs good with cats?
Many cats like to scratch jute, so a jute rug may become a scratching post. Choose a different fibre if that is a concern.
Shop the guide
-
Amelie Lana Rug in Rust With Faded Blue Hues
from £29.98 -
Deline Shaggy Rug in Dark Brown
from £69.98 -
Deline Shaggy Rug in Green
from £69.98 -
Izaline Checkered Shaggy Rug in Dark Brown
from £69.98
-
Colores Cloud Everest C011 Rug in Multicoloured
from £69.98 -
Colores Cloud Jungle C009 Rug in Multicoloured
from £69.98 -
Colores Cloud Magma C012 Rug in Multicoloured
from £69.98 -
Colores Cloud Sunset C010 Rug in Multicoloured
from £69.98
Related guides
- Washable rugs: how to choose and wash them
- How to remove stains from a rug
- How to vacuum a rug properly
- All rug guides
Questions about a specific rug? Every product page lists the maker's size, material, pile height and care details. Delivery is free to England, Wales and mainland Scotland: 2-5 working days for Asiatic rugs and 1-2 working days for Livabliss rugs. See delivery and returns.