What Type of Flooring is Best When You Have Pets? 

Pets bring a lot of love and joy into your home, but they can also be tough on your floors. From muddy paws to scratching nails to occasional accidents, your flooring needs to be durable, easy to clean, and comfortable for both you and your furry family members. Luckily, there are several pet-friendly flooring options available that offer the style you want with the resilience you need. 

At Best Flooring Outlet, we help homeowners across the Indianapolis area find the best flooring solutions for every lifestyle, including pet-friendly options. In this article, we'll break down the top flooring types for pet owners, what makes each one a smart pick, and what you should know before choosing the right fit for your home. 

What Makes a Floor Truly Pet-Friendly? 

Before diving into specific flooring types, let’s define what "pet-friendly" really means. The best floors for homes with pets are: 

• Scratch-resistant to withstand claws and active play 

• Water-resistant or waterproof to protect against accidents and spills 

• Easy to clean for hair, dirt, and dander 

• Durable enough to handle high foot traffic 

• Comfortable and safe for paws (traction matters, especially for older pets) 

At Best Flooring Outlet, we offer several flooring types that meet these criteria, all backed by our local expertise and professional installation services. 

Is RevWood a Good Choice for Homes with Pets? 

Yes! RevWood is an excellent flooring solution for pet owners who want the warm, authentic look of hardwood without maintenance worries. Made by Mohawk and crafted in the USA, RevWood is engineered with durability in mind. 

It features a strong wear layer that resists scratches, dents, and everyday wear. Many styles are also water-resistant or waterproof, making them a reliable choice for homes with pets prone to messes. Plus, RevWood is easy to clean and doesn’t require refinishing like traditional hardwood. 

What to consider: RevWood can't be sanded or refinished like solid wood. While it feels firm underfoot, it may be a little harder than carpeted areas for lounging pets. 

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Stylish and Waterproof 

LVP is one of the most popular and practical choices for pet owners. It combines high-end wood or tile looks with incredible performance, including full waterproof protection. 

LVP is: 

• Waterproof, which is perfect for accidents and water bowls 

• Scratch- and scuff-resistant 

• Soft and quiet underfoot, which helps reduce noise from paws 

• Easy to clean and available in endless styles 

What to consider: Some budget-friendly LVPs may have a thinner wear layer, which can wear down over time. Choose quality products from a trusted local flooring provider to ensure long-lasting results. 

Laminate Flooring: Affordable and Pet-Resistant 

Laminate flooring is another solid option for homes with pets. It offers realistic wood visuals at an affordable price point and holds up well against scratches and general wear. 

Many newer laminate options are water-resistant, which adds another layer of pet protection. It’s also easy to install and maintain, making it great for busy households. 

What to consider: Standard laminate is not fully waterproof, so it’s important to clean up any spills or accidents quickly. You’ll also want to select a laminate with a durable wear layer. 

Not sure which type of flooring is right for your pet and your space? Request a Free Estimate and let our local team help you compare options that fit your lifestyle and budget. 

Carpet for Pets? It Depends on the Type 

While carpet isn't always the first flooring type that comes to mind for pets, certain styles are made specifically with pets in mind. At Best Flooring Outlet, we offer several pet-friendly carpet options from brands like Shaw, Mohawk, and Stainmaster. 

• Shaw Pet Perfect™: Engineered to resist pet hair, odors, and stains—ideal for active pets in family homes. 

• Mohawk SmartStrand®: Made with Triexta fiber, this carpet offers built-in stain protection that won’t wear off over time. It’s also luxuriously soft. 

• Stainmaster® PetProtect™: Known for its color retention and odor-fighting properties, perfect for long-term performance. 

Carpet works well in bedrooms, playrooms, and areas where pets love to relax. Just be ready for more frequent vacuuming and occasional deep cleaning. 

How to Choose the Best Floor for Your Pet and Lifestyle 

When deciding which floor is best for your household, consider: 

• Your pet’s size and habits (active dogs, messy eaters, shedding breeds) 

• Room function (bathroom, bedroom, living space, entryway) 

• Style and design preferences 

• Your maintenance expectations 

If you need help making the right choice, our experts are here to walk you through your options and recommend the best fit for your home and pet. 

Request a Free Estimate to get personalized advice and explore flooring samples in person. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Pet-Friendly Flooring 

What is the most scratch-resistant flooring for pets? 
RevWood and luxury vinyl plank are both excellent at resisting scratches and everyday wear. They’re ideal for homes with energetic dogs or cats. 

Can pet accidents damage flooring? 
Yes, especially if not cleaned up quickly. Waterproof flooring options like LVP and certain RevWood styles are your best defense against long-term damage. 

Is carpet a bad idea for pets? 
Not if you choose a carpet specifically designed for pet households. Options like Shaw Pet Perfect™ and Mohawk SmartStrand® offer built-in stain and odor resistance. 

What flooring is easiest to clean with pets? 
Luxury vinyl plank is generally the easiest to clean, followed by RevWood and laminate. These surfaces require only basic sweeping and occasional damp mopping. 

Does pet-friendly flooring cost more? 
Not necessarily. Many pet-friendly options like laminate and vinyl are more affordable than traditional hardwood while offering better long-term durability. 

Flooring That Works for You and Your Pets 

Living with pets doesn’t mean sacrificing beautiful floors. From the scratch resistance of RevWood to the waterproof strength of LVP and the cozy comfort of pet-specific carpets, Best Flooring Outlet has something for every home. 

We offer expert guidance, in-stock selections, and professional installation services tailored to your lifestyle and budget. 

Looking for pet-friendly flooring in Indianapolis or nearby communities? We proudly serve Carmel, Fishers, Zionsville, Lawrence, Plainfield, Greenwood, Cumberland, Fairland, Mooresville, Shelbyville, New Palestine, Westfield, and of course, Indianapolis. 

Request a Free Estimate to get started today and find the best flooring for you and your four-legged friends.