We use a large sisal in our cooking area and it really warms up the kitchen (visually and physically), doesn't show the dirt (it's interwoven with darker colors) and if you get to spills quickly, they can be easily wiped up - so I would recommend a sisal as it's also inexpensive. I would make the cowhide decision based on the price, as I think a rug lasts about a year in a kitchen (we have 3 kids, an english setter and a cat).

Thanks for the feedback guys! I sent back the rug so get one that doesnt have any holes and less graying. So wish me luck! And yup... zebra cowhide rugs are all over pinterest and look quite lovely when done right.... to me its a no brainer that the zebra stripes are stenciled on the cow skin. Wish me luck!

I do not suggest you use a marker. though it may be an easy solution, and may make the damage less noticeable, it will remain visible, and will not blend in naturally. if you want to diy this, read the following blog: blog.rawhidecompany.com/2011/10/how-to-patch-your-cowhide-rug.html?m=1 here's a picture of the top and bottom of a goatskin I have, which was slightly damaged during skinning. you can't differentiate between patched areas and the rest

When it comes to decorating your space with some natural area rugs, such as cowhide rug, would you rather go for Natural look of cowhide rug OR Patchwork style cowhide rug?