Finding the perfect window covering is always a challenge, and sharing a home with a cat can make the challenge even more difficult. Fortunately, there are blinds options to meet every challenge your cat may pose. 

1. Cord Challenges

Cords are a playful temptation for most cats. They will bat at the cord, play with it, and become tangled up in it. Not only can this damage the cord and inhibit the operation of the blinds, but it can also be a safety hazard for your cat. Cordless blinds are the best solution, as these do not have a cord to pose a problem. There are manual varieties that you can simply push open or pull closed, as well as motorized types that work with a switch or remote control. If you already have corded blinds, you need to install a wall-mounted cord winder to keep the cord out of reach.

2. Blind Chewing

Cats will rub against things and even sometimes chew on them. Blinds seem to be a favorite target, particular thinner horizontal blinds made from aluminum or vinyl. It only takes a couple of tooth marks to ruin the blinds to the point that they need to be replaced. Avoid miniature horizontal blinds if possible. If you like the look of horizontal blinds, opt for wood or thick vinyl slats made to resemble wood, as these are more durable than thin mini blinds. Plantation shutters are another chew-proof alternative with a similar appearance.

3. Climbing and Clawing

Your window blinds shouldn't be your cat's scratching post, nor should they be a ladder to climb. Fabric blinds and shades, such as cellular shades and fabric roman blinds, are the most likely styles to attract clawing and climbing behavior. Cats may also claw at fabric vertical blinds or horizontal blinds with decorative fabric webbing over the blind cording. Opt for smooth materials, like wood or vinyl, instead of fabric to minimize this behavior.  

4. View Seeking

Cats love to sit in windows to watch the birds and the world go by, and they will push your blinds out of the way to get that view. This can lead to damage and broken slats on miniature blinds. Vertical blinds without a bottom connector chain can be pushed aside by a cat with no damage to the blinds. Another option for those that prefer horizontal blinds is to install a cat curtain, which is like a shortened cafe curtain, over the low 8 inches of the window and have the blinds above it. 

Contact a blinds dealer to find the perfect window treatment for you and your cat.