Rugs, Carpets and Carpeting - What kind of pad for area rug over wood laminate?

We're moving to a house with wood laminate flooring. We'll be having new carpet sized and bound to use as area rugs.What kind of pad/underlay should we use for the area rugs, keeping in mind that we have three cats, and the occassional "accident" happens. We want to be able to clean spills and cat pee without harming the wood underneath.

I've seen rubber mesh pads, but these seem as if they would allow moisture to seep through to the wood. The smooth rubber pads (no holes) would seem to be the most appropriate, but I don't know if there are any long-term issues with this type of pad on wood laminate.

Also, what's the appropriate pad thickness for this application? Thanks.

The National Oak Flooring Manufacturers Association recommends a 100% non-solvent based waffle rubber, untreated natural fiber like wool or jute, or chopped urethane. Padding should be non-yellowing. Some pads and some rug backings contain plasticizers that cause yellowing and discoloration of floor finish. To avoid uneven appearance, area rugs should be removed occasionally and windows should be draped or shaded to protect floor from sun's light and heat. Finding a pad for area rugs that is both non-yellowing and waterproof would be a challenge.