Ways to Keep Pets Comfy-Cozy at Home

There’s a briskness in the air. That means it’s time to cozy up your home for the pets. Sure, the human household members are important, but we can't deny our furry housemates those same creature comforts we enjoy. Here are some ideas for getting your pets' hangouts and bedding ready for the cooler temperatures in ways that are attractive to humans.

Build them their own nook. Cutouts like this circular one make the pet part of the decor ...


... or the reading experience.


The oversize mouse hole in this basement is in fact the perfect size for an old house cat who prefers to keep out of the action upstairs.


While cats may split from the family fun, dogs usually prefer to lie right in the heart of it. Encourage Buddy to not be a tripping hazard, especially in the kitchen, where it can be a serious hazard. Instead, give him a safer hangout all his own from which he can monitor the action.

Wherever you find the space for such a pet nook, fill it with plush materials that can be washed easily and often.


Build them a bench. Pets aren't demanding; they just need a little space to call their own. How about giving Kitty her own perfectly sized, custom-built bench in the sun? That's not asking too much.


Create a cave. Dogs generally crave a cave-like bed (when they aren't sprawled out in everyone's way). This undercounter crate provides that same atmosphere. A fitted cozy inside offers added warmth on frigid nights.


Instead of trying to hide the kennel, turn it into furniture. This dog's kennel acts as a table base that sits smack dab between his esteemed pack leaders' chairs.


Give them matching furniture. Not into showing off the kennel? Create an elegant bed that resembles the rest of the room's decor.

Find pet furniture or pillows that share similar properties with other facets of the room, such as color, finish, shape or texture. This dog bed blends in nicely with the living room, thanks to its library-like qualities.


This little Brussels Griffon gets to make himself at home on a love seat under his portrait when he's not hanging out in his own room. With something like this, just make sure guests know not to sit in the no-human zone.

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Art: Laura Alexander


If there is no delineation between pet and people furniture, lining furniture with stylish throws offers extra cush to cushions while keeping fur off them. Just make sure your throws (and any nearby pillows) are as washable as they are attractive.


Keeping Things Clean and Other Considerations

Washability. Washability is an important factor for any fabric that your pet sleeps on, especially during the rainy season, when muddy paws are a constant.

This guy's easy; he doesn't need his own bed. He'd much rather sleep in between his human companions. Good thing the comforter washes well.


Time apart at night. Just because your pets want to sleep next to you doesn't mean there's room for everybody. If you enjoy having your love bugs close to you at night, consider offering them a bench at the foot of the bed as their own. This way they can still see and hear you without sandbagging your feet.


Style. For larger breeds or multiple pets who enjoy one another's company at night, choose a bed that complements your own. There are no rules about what a pet's bed should look like. As long as the bed is comfortable for the animal, take liberties to make its design work with your room.


Color. It's believed that animals can't see color like we humans can. But that doesn't mean their bedding can't offer color in abundance to please our tastes. Pet pillows and upholstered cushions can be opportunities to add shots of seasonal color or pull from the existing room palette.


Outdoor shelter. Not all pets are allowed — or wish — to sleep indoors. It's especially important to make sure they're sheltered from the elements. This customized wine barrel is a stylish covered bed that doubles as a planter box.

Your turn: Show us how your pet is getting cozy for the season.

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