6 Tips for Choosing Cat-Proof Window Treatments | House Of Drapery

Cats are curious and need a lot of stimulation. Part of that stimulation comes in the form of playtime, such as pulling dangling objects. They likewise need to sharpen their claws, which also provides exercise.

You know these facts to be true, but that means little when you discover cat-scratched curtains or broken blinds. Stave off the disappointment in your cat by choosing cat-proof window treatments ahead of time.

Consider Roman Shades

Roman shades are fitted to the window at both the top and bottom, so they don't present any dangling fabric for cats to try climbing. What's more, it's easy to adjust the shades to a specific height. So, if you have a cat who likes lounging in the window — as most do — you can adjust the shades for cat access and light control.

The key to choosing cat-proof Roman shades comes in the pulling mechanism. You don't want the cords that end in a fob — they already look like cat toys. Instead, you want the shades that utilize the continuous chain. While the chain still dangles, there's no fob to attract cats. You can easily tuck the chain behind the shade. You can also choose shades with wand openers, which don't appeal to cats.

Invest in Interior Shutters

Interior shutters are the sturdiest of window treatments, which makes them ideal for withstanding curious cats. Indeed, cats tend not to be any more interested in interior shutters than they are in the window frame. Since cats love sitting in windows, consider accordion-style shades. You can open up one panel to accommodate your feline charge.

Think about Panel Blinds

Another fitted option is the panel blind. These blinds consist of tracks that are attached to the window frame at the top and the bottom. The panels move along the track. Since the blinds don't present any hanging bits, cats aren't particularly attracted to them. Just look for cat-proof materials, such as tightly-woven fabrics or smooth surfaces.

Avoid Venetian Blinds

Some of the funniest cat images on the Internet features cats tangled up in horizontal window blinds. In fact, such a situation can present a danger to your cat if they get injured from the cords holding the louvers together or even the louvers themselves.

Vinyl or aluminum Venetian blinds that have narrow louvers are especially hazardous. The material bends, which encourages cats to intertwine between them in the quest to reach the window. As a result, they can become stuck. Sharp edges can even scratch them, especially if they start struggling. Look for wide, sturdy horizontal louvers instead.

Look into Sturdy Vertical Blinds

Why not avoid horizontal blinds altogether? Blinds are convenient for light control because you can close them for total light elimination or angle the louvers to allow some light while still maintaining privacy. That said, you can choose vertical blinds over horizontal. You still get the light control without the tempting horizontal construction.

Your cats will still want to get to the window. So, you want to choose sturdy blinds that can withstand being pushed out of the way by an eager cat. Stiff PVC or even faux wood or wood are ideal. Just stay away from fabric-covered or otherwise embossed louvers. Not only will the texture attract cat hair, it could inspire your cat to use them like a scratch post.

Stay Away from Bamboo and Matchstick Blinds

Speaking of cat scratchers, look closely at a cat tower. Many are covered in carpeting, but you also see corded scratching posts. Guess what — bamboo or matchstick blinds look exactly like scratching posts to your feline. If you love the organic, appealing appearance of bamboo and matchstick blinds, you can get a similar look with wooden or wood-look blinds.

Cat companions are a great advantage to your life. Just make sure they're not a detriment to your window treatments by choosing appropriate styles and materials. Consult with House of Drapery for more advice in cat-proofing your window treatments.