How to Keep Your Pets from Destroying Your Blinds

It's always fun to see your pets' playful side, but not when it comes at the cost of your blinds!

We understand that it can be extremely frustrating when your pet destroys your blinds. You are not alone in this frustration! It is very common for this to happen.

In this blog post, we will explain why your pet may do this, preventative strategies you can try to fix this behavior, and alternative blinds you can try out>

At Blind Plus and More, we want to help solve your issues.

If you want to learn more about ideal blinds and shades, click here!

Why do Pets Destroy Blinds?

There are many reasons why your pet may destroy your blinds, including boredom, separation anxiety, curiosity, lack of training, habits, and instinctual responses.

We have explained these reasons below.

1. Boredom:

Pets, especially dogs and cats, may destroy blinds out of boredom. If they are left alone for long periods without any mental or physical stimulation, they may resort to chewing or scratching at the blinds to alleviate their boredom.

In addition, the desire to see outside, or the attraction to the texture and type of material of blinds can cause your pet to go after your blinds.

2. Separation anxiety:

When pets experience separation anxiety, they may exhibit destructive behavior, such as tearing up blinds, to cope with their anxiety. This is a common issue for pets who are left alone for extended periods or for pets who have recently been adopted or experienced a change in their routine.

Also, if your pet sees or hears something outside that piques their curiosity, they may attempt to get a better view by destroying the blinds.

3. Curiosity:

Pets are naturally curious creatures and may be drawn to the movement and sound of blinds. They may paw at or chew on the blinds simply out of curiosity.

4. Lack of training:

Pets who have not been properly trained or provided with appropriate chewing toys or scratching posts may turn to blinds as a target for their natural chewing or scratching behavior.

5. Habit:

Once a pet has established a habit of destroying blinds, it can be difficult to break. If the behavior has been reinforced by attention or if the blinds provide a satisfying sensory experience for the pet, they may continue the destructive behavior.

6. Instinctual Response:

Lots of animals have an instinct to hunt and play. For instance, cats may destroy blinds due to their instinct to hunt and play. The movement of blinds in the breeze or sunlight can attract their attention and they may feel compelled to play with or attack them.

Furthermore, many animals have a natural urge to climb and explore their environment, which may lead them to scratch or climb on the blinds, causing damage.

Prevention Strategies

We suggest that you implement some deterrents and training solutions to help prevent your pet from destroying your blinds.

With the right training and preventative measures, you can effectively stop your pet from destroying your blinds.

Below we have outlined a few tips and tricks.

1. Use bitter sprays or double-sided tape to make the blinds unappealing.
   
   
2. Supply your pet with plenty of toys and activities to redirect your pet's energy.
   
   
3. Provide exercise and mental stimulation for your pet during the day. This will look different depending on the kind of pet you have. For instance, if you have a dog, we recommend taking your dog on a walk at least once a day to release excess energy.
   
   
4. Use baby gates or barriers to block access to the blinds when you cannot supervise your pet.
   
   
5. Try positive reinforcement training. This can involve using rewards such as treats or praise to encourage your pet to exhibit desirable behavior, such as staying away from the blinds.
   
   By consistently rewarding them for leaving the blinds alone, they will learn that this behavior is more rewarding than destroying your blinds.
   
   Clicker training can also be effective in teaching your pet an alternative behavior and rewarding them when they engage in it instead of destroying the blinds.

Consistency and patience are key in implementing these strategies, as it may take time for your pet to learn the desired behavior.

We also recommend that you try to figure out the underlying cause of your pet's behavior if they are being destructive regularly.

Alternatives to Traditional Blinds

Alternatives to traditional blinds such as darkening liners, motorized shades, and exterior window treatments can help prevent your pet from destroying your blinds.

It is also important to consider the specific needs and behaviors of your individual pets when choosing which type of shades, you get.

Below are a few alternative blinds that can be an option for you!

Room Darkening Shades:

These are a good alternative to traditional blinds for pet owners because they provide added protection and privacy while also preventing pets from damaging the blinds.

These liners can be easily added to any existing blinds, reducing the chance of pets getting caught in the cords and potentially destroying them. The added layer of room-darkening material also helps to block out light, creating a more controlled environment for pets and reducing the temptation to scratch or chew on the blinds.

Motorized Shades:

This is a great alternative to traditional blinds for pet owners. With the ability to be controlled remotely, motorized shades eliminate the need for dangling cords that pets may be tempted to play with. This reduces the risk of pets getting tangled in the cords and damaging the blinds.

Additionally, the smooth movement of the motorized shades makes them less likely to be damaged by pets compared to traditional blinds.

With the Hunter Douglas® PowerView® motorization system, you can easily adjust your shades to your desired position to keep your pets from the shades, all with a simple tap or voice command.

Exterior Window Treatments:

For pet owners looking for a more permanent solution, exterior window treatments such as exterior shades or shutters are a good alternative to traditional blinds. These treatments are installed on the outside of the window, keeping them out of reach from pets and reducing the risk of damage.

Exterior window treatments also add an extra layer of insulation and protection for the interior of the home, making them a practical choice for pet owners.

Protect Your Blinds with Blinds Plus and More

By selecting alternative blinds that are durable, resistant to damage, and providing alternative outlets for your pets you can be sure that your blinds are protected!

If you are looking for your next great window treatment upgrade, stop by one of our five showrooms in Mason, Centerville, Florence, Cincinnati, and Eastgate today!

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