Bringing home a new couch or dining table is exciting—until your cat launches off it like a springboard or your dog decides the legs are fair game for chewing. If you’ve got pets running the house, you might be wondering: is solid wood furniture a good choice for pet owners? Let’s break down what really matters when you’re shopping for pet-friendly furniture.
Will It Hold Up to Scratches?
Pets, especially cats, love to scratch. Even dogs can leave marks just jumping up to say hi.
While solid wood is tougher than laminate or particleboard, it’s not scratch-proof. Softer woods like pine dent easily, while hardwoods like oak and maple do better. Even with those hardwoods, you’ll still see marks eventually. But you can sand and refinish the surface to cover them up, which is a big plus if your pet treats your furniture like a jungle gym.
Can It Handle Accidents?
If you’ve got a new puppy or an older cat, accidents happen. And when liquid hits wood, it soaks in fast. That can leave stains or even cause warping if you don’t catch it right away. A water-resistant seal helps, but it’s not a total fix. For high-risk zones, like near litter boxes or dog crates, solid wood might not be the best call unless it’s protected.
What Type of Wood Is It?
Some types of wood make more durable furniture than others, so it’s worth checking before you buy. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and walnut are better at resisting damage from claws or chewing. Softer woods like pine or cedar dent and scratch a lot more easily.
You’ll also want to pay attention to the finish. A tough, sealed surface adds extra protection, especially in high-traffic spots your pets frequent. If durability matters, wood type and finish both need to be right.
Will Pets Try to Chew It?
If your dog’s still in the chewing phase—or if your cat’s taken a liking to gnawing wood corners—that’s a concern. Solid wood might survive a few chews better than MDF or veneer, but it’s not invincible. The damage can look pretty rough. Table and chair legs are prime targets, so if you’ve got a known chewer, you might need extra deterrents or chew-proof leg covers.
How Hard Is It to Clean?
Pet hair sticks to everything. Luckily, wood’s a smooth surface, so it’s easier to wipe down than fabric or textured materials.
That said, hair can collect in grooves or carvings. A simple design with a sealed finish will make cleaning quicker. Just don’t skip regular dusting—especially if you’ve got a shedding machine of a pet.
Is It Worth It for Your Home?
Is solid wood furniture a good choice for pet owners? It depends on your pet and your expectations. If you’re ready for some upkeep and you choose the right wood type, it can definitely work. The longevity and repairability help offset the risk of scratches or dings, especially compared to cheaper alternatives. Just know what you’re signing up for before you bring home that new dining table.
