The Best Wood Floors for Dog and Cat Owners – Part 2

How to use and maintain your wood floors living with dogs and cats in the home.

Dogs and cats are probably the most common pets we all have in our home. Much like any member of our family they spill water, shed hair, scratch the wood floors and just plain wear through the house just living in it. That is part of everybody’s life. Added to the equation is the fact that if not properly trained, pets will urinate on the wood floors and permanently stain the wood.

If you have a dog or a cat and hardwood floors in your home, this blog is to help you understand what your pets do to your floors and how to keep the floors clean and maintained.

Common topics my clients have asked me about:

• Pets who shed hair on your hardwood floors – This is a pretty easy fix. You can use a vacuum, a broom or a lightly dampened mop. I find it easier to use a damp mop or a micro fiber mop. A lot of the new micro fiber mops will pick up hair and dust without having to spray anything on the wood floors. When the mop is dirty just take it outside and shake it clean.
• Water spills around their water station – Water and wood do not mix. No matter the finish you have on the floor, water will penetrate through it and will soak in through the floor seams and end joints over time. Water spills and drips in one area on a daily basis will cause discoloration in the wood, stain the wood or cause minor expansion and swelling of the hardwood floors. To keep those from happening, use a dry clean rag or towel to wipe the area daily. I have seen some clients that placed a plastic sheet on the wood floors and that works well.
• Scratches on your wood floors – dogs and cats, especially large dogs will scratch your wood floors very easily. The heavier the dog the more scratches. A common mistake with site finished floors is for the home owner to move in too soon after the last coat of finish was applied. Since the finish had no time to cure properly the pets would then scratch the wood floors quickly and easily. It is important to try and keep those nails groomed and filed. It is also recommended not to let your 80lb dog run and play inside…

Much like us dogs and cats use and wear our wood floors. Following these simple guidelines will help reduce wear and tear on your floors and keep them clean for all to enjoy.