Selling a Home with Pets: How to Keep Showings Stress-Free

24 February 2026

Let’s be honest—selling your home is already a big deal. Between cleaning, staging, and juggling your real estate agent’s schedule, your plate is pretty full. Now, throw in a couple of furry (or feathered!) friends, and things can get a little... hairy.

If you're a pet parent trying to sell your home, you’ve probably asked yourself: “How do I keep my pet calm—and my house looking perfect—for buyers?” That’s exactly what we’re diving into here.

In this guide, we’ll cover all the bases—from prepping your home to managing showings—so that the process is stress-free for both you and your beloved animals. Let’s get into it.

Why Pets Can Complicate the Selling Process

You love your pets—we get it! They're part of the family. But not everyone shares the same love for dogs, cats, or exotic critters. For some buyers, seeing pet toys scattered across the living room or catching a whiff of “eau de litter box” could be enough to send them running.

Here’s why pets can be a problem during home showings:

- Allergies and fears: Not everyone is comfortable or healthy around animals.
- Odors: Nose-blindness is real. What smells like home to you might be unpleasant to visitors.
- Damage: Scratched floors, chewed trim, or pet stains can raise red flags.
- Distractions: Pets can steal the show—in the worst way. Buyers might focus more on your Chihuahua than your crown molding.

But don’t worry! You don’t have to choose between your pets and a successful home sale.

Step 1: Start with a Deep Clean

Picture this: a buyer walks through the front door, takes a deep breath, and says, “Wow, it smells so fresh in here!” That’s the goal.

Furry Friends = Furry Furniture

Start by removing pet hair from furniture, carpets, and drapes. Use lint rollers, vacuum attachments, or even rubber gloves for a simple, cost-effective solution. If you’ve got long-haired pets, this step might need to happen daily.

Address Odors at the Source

Don’t just try to mask smells with air fresheners. Buyers have noses like bloodhounds. Enzyme cleaners work wonders on pet stains, and a good carpet shampooing can go a long way.

Pro tip: If you've got a cat, clean the litter box every single day. And consider moving it out of the main living areas entirely if possible.

Step 2: Repair Pet Damage

Got a dog that loves to scratch at the door? Or a cat who’s redecorated your baseboards? It’s time to tackle those little “customizations.”

Focus Areas:

- Doors and door frames: Sand and repaint scratches.
- Carpets and rugs: Steam clean or replace stained areas.
- Floors: Buff out scratches on wood or replace damaged boards.

You want the first impression to say “move-in ready,” not “needs TLC.”

Step 3: Remove Pet Items Before Showings

You might not even notice your pet’s stuff anymore—it’s just part of the décor. But for buyers, reminders of your pets can be a distraction.

Before each showing, stash away:
- Food and water bowls
- Litter boxes
- Leashes, toys, and scratching posts
- Crates, beds, and cages

Think of it like staging your home to look like a hotel suite—neutral and inviting to everyone.

Step 4: Create a Plan for Showings

Here’s where it gets a bit tricky. You’ve made the house look spotless and scent-free—now what do you do with your pets when potential buyers come knocking?

Best Option: Relocate Temporarily

If you can, take your pets with you during showings. Even better—ask a friend or neighbor to pet-sit during busy periods. It keeps them safe and removes all distractions from the home tour.

Second-Best: Contain Them

If leaving the house isn’t possible, try confining your pet to a specific area, preferably one that’s already clean and tidy. Use a baby gate, crate, or an enclosed porch.

Important: Always let your agent know if pets will be in the home and where they are confined so there are no surprises.

Step 5: Talk to Your Vet

This might seem a bit extra, but if your pet gets anxious with strangers in the house or is sensitive to changes in routine, it could be worth checking in with your vet.

They might suggest calming products like:
- Pheromone diffusers
- Anxiety wraps
- Natural calming treats

It’s all about keeping your furry friend as comfortable as possible during what can be a confusing time for them.

Step 6: Highlight the Pet Potential (If It Makes Sense)

If your neighborhood or property is super pet-friendly—a fenced yard, nearby dog parks, walking trails, pet-friendly HOA—this could actually be a selling point.

Just be careful not to overdo it. You don’t want your listing to scream "This house is full of pets!" But a subtle nod to the pet-loving buyer can go a long way.

For example:
> “Enjoy the spacious backyard, perfect for kids and pets alike!”

Step 7: Work with a Pet-Savvy Real Estate Agent

Not all agents have experience juggling showings with pets underfoot. Look for someone who:
- Understands how to handle pet-related concerns
- Can be flexible with showing times
- Will give you a heads-up for last-minute tours

Communication is key. Keep your agent in the loop about where your pet will be during showings, and establish some ground rules to ensure their comfort and safety.

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Sale

Keep a Pet “Go Bag” Ready

You never know when a last-minute showing will pop up. Keep a bag packed with:
- Leash or carrier
- Treats and toys
- Waste bags or litter supplies
- A small blanket or bed

That way, you're always ready to scoop up your pet and head out on a quick walk or drive.

Use Smart Tech for Peace of Mind

Pet cameras or smart home devices let you keep an eye on things if you can’t be home during a showing. It’s especially useful for checking if your pet sitter shows up or if your anxious pup starts barking.

Your Pets Deserve a Smooth Transition, Too

Selling a home isn't just a transition for you—it’s a big change for your pets, too. As you declutter and depersonalize, they’ll likely notice the shift in energy. Keep their routines as normal as possible, offer lots of affection, and give them a quiet space to retreat.

And once that “SOLD” sign goes up? Give them time to adjust to the new place slowly. Familiar smells, favorite toys, and your love go a long way to making a new house feel like home.

In a Nutshell...

Selling a home with pets takes a bit more planning, patience, and elbow grease—but it’s absolutely doable. With a clean space, a flexible showing plan, and a focus on your pet’s wellbeing, you’ll keep stress levels low and your offers high.

After all, happy pets and happy buyers? That’s a win-win.