Choosing the right flooring is a big decision — especially for New Zealand families with pets. Dogs, cats, and other furry companions bring joy to our lives, but they also bring muddy paws, claws, hair, and the occasional accident. So, is laminate flooring up to the challenge?
In this blog, we’ll explore whether laminate flooring is truly pet-friendly, what makes it suitable (or not), and the best ways Kiwi families can get the most from it.
What Makes Flooring Pet-Friendly?
Before diving into laminate specifically, let’s define what pet-friendly flooring should offer:
- Scratch resistance – Can it handle claws and playful zoomies?
- Moisture resistance – How does it react to spills, accidents, or wet paws?
- Ease of cleaning – Is it quick and simple to remove pet hair, dander, and dirt?
- Safety and comfort – Does it offer traction and comfort under paw?
- Non-toxic materials – Are the materials safe for pets who lie on or lick the floor?
Laminate flooring performs well in many of these areas — but there are also a few caveats to be aware of.
Scratch Resistance: Built to Withstand Claws
Laminate flooring is built with a hard, wear-resistant top layer that makes it highly durable and scratch-resistant — ideal for active pets. Studies have shown that laminate floors meet or exceed international durability standards like BS-EN 13329, especially in terms of abrasion resistance (Kara-Çamlıbel, 2025).
That means your dog’s claws are unlikely to leave visible damage, and your cat’s bursts of energy are less likely to ruin the finish. Of course, no flooring is completely claw-proof — regular nail trims and mats in high-impact areas will help extend the life of your flooring.
However, one caveat: harsh cleaning products — especially those with alcohol — can weaken the scratch resistance over time (Karamanoğlu, 2022). Stick with pet-safe, gentle cleaners to maintain the floor’s durability.
Moisture Sensitivity—With a Modern Solution
One of the biggest drawbacks of traditional laminate is its sensitivity to water. The core is made from wood-based fibreboard, which can swell or warp if moisture seeps into the joints.
This is where water-resistant technology steps in.
AquaRepel™ laminate flooring by Power Dekor NZ offers an upgraded, water-resistant alternative, perfect for pet owners. Designed with tight-locking seams and a hydrophobic surface, AquaRepel™ can withstand spills, pet accidents, and damp paws without swelling or damage. It’s a game-changer for households needing peace of mind.
Moisture Tips for Pet Owners:
- Use waterproof mats beneath food and water bowls
- Clean accidents promptly to avoid seepage
- Opt for water-resistant laminate in high-traffic or wet areas like kitchens and entrances
Easy to Clean: Laminate vs. Carpet
If you’re tired of fur embedded in your carpet, laminate will be a breath of fresh air. It has a sealed surface that makes vacuuming and wiping a breeze — especially helpful for pet hair, muddy paw prints, or the occasional “oops” moment.
Plus, laminate doesn’t trap allergens like carpet does. This is great news for NZ families managing asthma or allergies, as pet allergens are less likely to accumulate on smooth surfaces (Egmar et al., 1998).
Whether you’re cleaning up after a shedding Labrador or a muddy moggy, laminate flooring helps keep your home feeling fresher and more hygienic.
Pet Safety and Traction
While laminate is tough and easy to clean, it can be slippery, especially for older dogs or fast-moving pups. Lack of traction may lead to joint strain or injuries over time.
A recent study ranked “walking safety” as one of the most important subcriteria when selecting laminate flooring for family homes (Singer & Özşahin, 2021). This applies even more to pet households, where dogs and cats sprint, slide, and sleep on the floor.
How to Make Laminate Safer for Pets:
- Add non-slip rugs or runners in high-traffic areas
- Consider textured laminate with a matte finish for added grip
- Use paw balm or grip pads for senior pets with mobility issues
Is Laminate Flooring Safe for Pets?
Yes — modern laminate products are much safer than in the past. Many New Zealand suppliers now offer low-VOC and formaldehyde-free laminate, ensuring a healthier indoor environment for your family and your pets.
This is especially important for animals who spend most of their time indoors, or who lie belly-down on the floor for hours. Look for certifications like:
- E1 emissions rating
- GREENGUARD or Blue Angel labels
- NZ Building Code compliance
These standards ensure the laminate flooring meets strict safety criteria for air quality and chemical content.
Why NZ Families Are Choosing Laminate
Laminate flooring continues to be a top choice in New Zealand for its:
- Affordability: Get the look of hardwood at a fraction of the price
- Style: Modern laminate comes in a wide range of wood looks, colours, and textures
- Durability: Withstands pets, kids, and everyday life
- Low maintenance: Ideal for busy Kiwi households
- Allergy-friendly: Less dander and dust than carpets
And with water-resistant upgrades like AquaRepel™ laminate flooring by Power Dekor NZ, it’s now suitable for nearly every room in the house — even kitchens and laundry areas.
Is Laminate Flooring Pet-Friendly?
Yes, laminate flooring is a smart, pet-friendly choice for NZ families — especially when you choose modern, water-resistant options designed to handle life with pets. While you’ll want to take precautions for traction and moisture, laminate offers the perfect blend of durability, ease of cleaning, and style.
Whether you’re adopting a new puppy or upgrading your home for your senior cat, laminate flooring can support your family’s lifestyle beautifully.
References:
- Aydin, M., Kara, M., & Çamlıbel, O. (2025). Influence of Décor and Overlay Paper Mass on Laminate Floor Product Properties. Lesnoy Zhurnal (Forestry Journal).
- Egmar, A., Emenius, G., Almqvist, C., & Wickman, M. (1998). Cat and dog allergen in mattresses and textile‐covered floors of homes which do or do not have pets, either in the past or currently. Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, 9.
- Karamanoğlu, M. (2022). The effect of disinfection products on the scratch resistance, surface roughness and total color change of laminate flooring. Ormancılık Araştırma Dergisi.
- Singer, H., & Özşahin, Ş. (2021). Prioritization of laminate flooring selection criteria from experts’ perspectives: a spherical fuzzy AHP-based model. Architectural Engineering and Design Management, 18, 911 – 926.