Isn't there some kind of sealant that can be put on the laminate? I don't think ceremic tiles will work for us. Our winters are very cold sometimes and I think it would make the house seem colder...or am I wrong? I will ask next time I'm out looking again and see if there is a sealant for the laminate, otherwise I guess I'll have to stick to carpet and keep vigilant about watching for signs of having to go. We are going to put up some fencing hoping to get them started going out more, so we'll see.