Cats are known to love sleeping for an average of 12 to 16 hours a day. Every feline enjoys curling up in warm cozy places, stretching out in the sun, or even hiding in a cave. In such a case, the right cat bed can remarkably improve their comfort and health. There are endless options available which tend to be overwhelming. This guide will cover the factors to consider when buying a cat bed, and various types of cat beds, as well as recommend the best cat beds for different types of cat personalities.
What’s the Benefit of a Cat Bed?
Even though many cats love lounging around on any random piece of furniture or even sleeping on the owner’s bed, a cat bed comes with uncountable benefits which include the following:
Comfort and security: A well-designed cat bed that is warm and secure provides a cat’s well-being.
Better sleep quality: When a bed has the ideal sleeping position along with the appropriate body temperature, cats tend to sleep better.
Helps with shedding: Giving a cat a personal bed reduces the amount of shedding on other pieces of furniture in the house.
Anxiety. A domiciled cat who is anxious can feel safe and relaxed in a securely closed warm bed.
Styles of Cat Beds
1. Foam Cushion Beds
These beds are soft, thick-padded, and perfect for cats who like to sprawl while dozing off. They come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, from round cushions to rectangular mattresses.
2. Warming Cat Beds
These beds are perfect for senior cats or cats that love to stay warm. Some self-warming beds reflect a cat’s body heat to warm up while the rest have an electric heating option.
3. Indented Hooded Beds or Cave Bed
They are the best for cats who like to hide or burrow when sleeping. Their design of being enclosed ensures safety while keeping warmth for shy or anxious cats.
4. Window Perch Beds
For cats that cannot stop gawking at the outside world, window perch beds can be plucked to the window with a vacuum, where your cat can enjoy the sun while watching high-up birds.
5. Elevated or Hammock Beds
These beds are for cats that prefer sleeping in high places. They have air vents beneath to help keep the cat cool in hot temperatures.
6. Orthopedic Beds
Cats with arthritis or older cats would find orthopedic beds most comfortable as they are crafted with memory foam or other supportive materials. Such beds provide extra comfort and support to joints, relieving pressure on them.
7. Donut or Bolster Beds
With raised edges, these round beds are ideal for cats who like to curl up. The raised edges offer a sense of safety while providing a comfortable surface for resting the head.
Factors to Choosing the Best Cat Bed
With this information on cat beds in mind, you must remember several points so that your cat is as comfortable as possible.
Size and Shape
Cats have unique sleeping styles; some snooze by curling up, while others require more space to stretch. It is important to select one which best suits your cat’s sleeping habits.
Material and Softness
Ease of cleaning is another significant factor to keep in mind. For hygiene purposes, a cat bed should accumulate as little hair, dander, and dust as possible, thus, a washable bed is essential. Machine washable beds make cleaning much more convenient.
Control of Temperature
For those who live in moderate-cold areas or have cats with short hair, self-warming pillows are a great option. In warmer areas, a breathable and raised cat condo does wonders in keeping your cat cool.
Safety and Durability
Make sure that the bed is made with non-toxic materials and doesn’t have small pieces that could potentially be choking hazards. If you are getting a heated bed, make sure it has a low-voltage option.
Non-Slip Bottom
Bouncy cat beds with non-slip bottom that prevents skidding during jumping as well as getting in and out of bed.
Placement and Design
Think in advance about how you are going to position the bed. For example, if your pet cat is fond of windows, then a window box will work best. If they like to bunker down, then a cave bed would be the best.
For The Most Selective Cat Owners:
1. The Snuggler:
Donut-shaped beds or bolster beds are perfect as they give a sense of security which cats get very fond of.
2. The Explorer:
A cat bed with multiple levels and hideouts in the form of tunnels is perfect for kitten explorers who love to roam and sleep everywhere.
3. For Your Aging Cat:
Cats suffering from arthritis or other types of joint pain find solace in orthopedic beds that add additional support and comfort.
4. For The Cat Who Loves the Sun:
Cats that are always on the lookout for warm places in the house will benefit from a heated cat bed.
Best Cat Beds Based on Personality
Cats can keep an eye on the outside world thanks to a cat window perch which gives them a comfortable yet elevated space to relax.
Best Rated Cat Beds
1. Best Overall: The PetFusion Ultimate Cat Bed
Memory foam base for joint support
Removable, machine-washable cover
Raised edges for security.
2. Best Budget: Amazon Basics Round Cat Bed
Soft plush fabric.
Budget-friendly and soft.
Can be washed in the machine.
3. Best for Anxious Cats: Best Friends by Sheri Donut Bed
Super soft faux fur.
Self warming properties.
Round shape with raised edges for security.
4. Best for Small Apartments: K&H Window Perch
Space-saving design.
Sturdy and holds up to 40 lbs.
No tools are required for installation.
5. Best for Seniors: Furhaven Orthopedic Cat Bed
Lowe entrance for easy access.
Memory foam base for joint support.
The cover is machine washable.
Techniques to Help Your Cat Adjust to a Bed Change
Here’s how you can help your cat adjust to changing their bed:
- Place the cat bed in a spot where they like resting to make the bed familiar to them.
- Use treats or catnip to help them associate the bed with something good.
- Reinforce the fabric with some of their scent by using a blanket to help them adjust.
- Do remember that some cats take a longer time than others to adapt to a new bed.
Conclusion
Finding the ideal cat bed for your kitty will depend on their sleeping habits, comfort preferences, and character. A cat who likes sleeping in a cozy cave, warm bed, or on a plush cushion can find relief in the right bed for their usage. A better understanding of your furry friend’s needs can be achieved by analyzing some details such as the material, dimensions, and how complicated it is to clean.
FAQs
For older cats, the best kind of bed is one that is made of memory foam and an orthopedic sleeper, since it offers relief from joint pain as well as ample support.
A cat’s bed should be washed every 2 to 3 weeks, as this will help avoid the accumulation of fur, dust, and bacteria.
It all comes down to a cat’s individual nature. While some cats sleep better in enclosed beds because they feel more secure, other cats prefer open beds where they can stretch.
Heated beds for cats can be used if there are safety features like a low-voltage setting and an automatic shutoff. Always adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Memory foam beds are excellent because they give extra support to senior cats, but ultra-soft and plush materials like fur and fleece are the best for warmth and comfort.
