For many Australian pet owners, their furry friends are more than just animals – they’re part of the family. But as much as we love our pets, we don’t always love the wear and tear they can inflict on our home furnishings. Enter the latest sensation that’s got pet owners across the country flocking to Kmart: a $7 pet furniture protector that’s being hailed as ‘pure genius’.
This budget-friendly solution has been designed to safeguard your beloved sofas, chairs, and other valuable pieces from the enthusiastic claws of cats and dogs. The product’s simplicity is matched only by its affordability, making it an instant hit among those looking to protect their homewares without breaking the bank.
The protector itself is a transparent PVC sheet measuring a generous 300cm x 30cm, accompanied by a plastic scraper to aid in application. It adheres securely to a variety of surfaces, including polyester, cotton, wood, glass, and acrylic. While it’s also deemed ‘suitable’ for velvet and faux or real leather, caution is advised when applying anything adhesive to such expensive materials.
The buzz around this product began in earnest when a shopper in a private Kmart decor community sought advice on how to keep her cat’s paws off her pricey furniture. She posted a photo of the new item, asking for reviews and whether it would damage her real leather couch. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with many pet owners sharing their success stories.
One customer exclaimed, ‘Oh I love mine, it has stopped my kitten from scratching my lounge.’ They detailed how they applied the protector to the corners and sides of their three-seater, and since then, their kitten had ceased scratching and instead used her cat pole.
For those hesitant to stick anything onto their furniture, other suggestions included using a thick plastic tablecloth from Spotlight, which can be cut to size, or even aluminium foil, as cats generally dislike the texture and sound.
Kmart’s pet-friendly offerings don’t stop there. They also offer a $10 cat scratch couch protector made from polyester in stylish grey and cream colours. This alternative drapes over the side of the furniture and features a sisal surface to entice cats away from the couch itself. ‘My cats have learned how to use it… so also happy that it’s protecting my couch from damage,’ a satisfied customer reported.
The store’s pet section has become a treasure trove of popular items, including the $25 pet couch cover, the cosy pet corduroy couch topper, and the $15 IQ toy dispenser, all of which have garnered five-star reviews. Kmart’s puppy pads are also a consistent best-seller, proving that the retailer knows what pet owners need.
In the grand scheme of Kmart’s top products for 2024, the pet furniture protector is just one of many must-haves. The 50c Bubble Mega Wand took the crown as the number one product of the year, followed by childhood favourites like $2 Hot Wheels cars, practical kitchen appliances like the $49 21L microwave and the $59 3.75L air fryer, and outdoor essentials like the $59 Foldable Beach Trolley and a $7.50 1.7L cordless kettle.
It’s obvious that the $7 pet furniture protector has become a must-have for many pet owners looking to keep their homes safe from the wear and tear caused by their furry friends. With its simple design and affordable price, it’s no wonder it’s flying off the shelves.
What do you think about this innovative solution? Have you tried the pet furniture protector, or do you have other tips for protecting your furniture from pet damage? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences—feel free to share in the comments below!
Also read: Kmart’s $3 snack obsession: Why it’s the talk of the town
