When cold weather settles in and the pellet stove becomes the heart of the home, pets are usually the first to claim the warmest spot. But “cozy” shouldn’t come at the expense of safety. With a few simple precautions, you can keep your home toasty and pet-friendly all season long.

1. Create a Safe Distance

Pellet stoves give off steady, radiant heat that can be irresistible—especially to cats, who believe any warm surface is their personal throne. Dogs, on the other hand, tend to investigate anything that glows or hums. To avoid accidents, establish a clear “no-paws zone” around your stove. A fireplace screen, decorative barrier or small safety gate helps keep curious noses and wagging tails at a safe distance. Aim for about 3 feet of space around the unit to reduce the risk of accidental burns or bumped controls. Bonus: These barriers work well for little ones, too.

2. Store Pellets the Right Way

Keeping pellets nearby for easy refilling is convenient, but fuel should be stored properly. Because pellet bags are not pet-proof. Dogs may treat them like oversized chew toys, and cats might see them as the perfect burrowing spot. When storing, try to keep pellets in airtight containers. This keeps fuel dry and protected from moisture, plus it prevents spills and keeps curious pets from turning your heating supply into a play area.

3. Offer a Better Cozy Spot

If pets are crowding the stove, it’s usually because they’re seeking warmth. Give them a safe alternative they’ll love even more. Place a plush bed or folded blanket near (but not touching) the warm area. Heated pet mats designed specifically for animals are another great option. For cats, consider cushioning a window perch or elevated shelf that is a safe distance from the stove. Older pets especially appreciate gentle warmth for joints and muscles, so giving them a designated comfort zone can keep them content and safely away from hot surfaces.

4. Watch the Small Details

A few small habits can make a big difference:

-Tuck away electrical cords.

-Keep toys, collars and tags from dangling near hot surfaces.

-Avoid loose blankets that could drift too close to the stove.

-Check that controls and settings are out of reach from curious paws.

-Routine maintenance matters, too. Make sure your stove is clean, functioning properly, and venting correctly—good airflow keeps the entire household safer.

With just a few thoughtful adjustments, your pellet stove can remain the warm heart of your home without putting curious paws at risk. A little prevention goes a long way toward keeping every member of the family—two-legged and four-legged—safe and comfortable all winter long.