Best Cat Beds: How to Choose the Right One for Your Pet

Before purchasing, watch how your cat sleeps naturally. If they stretch out long on the sofa, they will hate a restrictive donut bed and need a flat, rectangular mattress. If they constantly bury themselves under your blankets or curl into a tight circle, a high-walled bolster bed or a covered cave will be their ultimate comfort zone.

Unlike dog houses where you want a little extra room, cats prefer beds that fit snugly. A bed that is too large will fail to trap their body heat, leaving them cold and exposed. The ideal cat bed is just large enough for them to stretch out slightly, but small enough that their body touches the sides when curled up.

Cats are meticulous groomers, but they still shed hair, dander, and occasionally track litter. Always look for a bed with a removable, machine-washable cover. For high-walled beds that don't have removable covers, ensure the entire unit can be tossed into the washing machine without losing its structural integrity.

A kitten might love scaling a tall cat tree to reach a hammock, but an arthritic 13-year-old cat will struggle with that climb. For senior pets, prioritize low-profile beds with high-density memory foam that provides joint support. Avoid overly plush, sinking fabrics that make it difficult for an older cat to push themselves up to a standing position.

You can buy the most expensive bed in the world, but if you place it in a high-traffic hallway, your cat will ignore it. Cats instinctively seek high vantage points where they feel safe from foot traffic. Try placing the new bed on a sturdy credenza, a wide windowsill, or in a quiet, sunlit corner of the home office.