Every cat parent has been there—you buy your feline a plush, expensive cat bed, only to find them snoozing in the cardboard box it came in. Cats are particular creatures, and choosing the best cat bed isn’t just about buying the fluffiest option. It’s about understanding what your cat actually wants. If you’re tired of seeing your cat nap in odd places, here’s how to find a bed they’ll actually love—and use.
Why Do Cats Ignore Their Beds?
Before diving into the best cat beds, let’s address the big question: why do cats ignore their beds in favor of your laundry pile?
- Scent Matters – A new bed smells unfamiliar. Cats prefer items that carry their scent.
- Location is Key – If it’s not in their favorite nap zone, they’ll ignore it.
- Too Big or Too Small – Some cats love sprawling out, while others prefer a snug, enclosed space.
Funny Insight: If your cat’s bed is in the exact spot they claimed as their own before, congratulations—you have outsmarted them!
Disclaimer
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How to Choose the Best Cat Bed
Finding the perfect bed means considering your cat’s sleeping style and preferences. Here are a few key factors:
1. Consider Your Cat’s Sleeping Style
Cats have different sleep preferences, and the right bed will match their style:
- Cuddlers: Prefer round, enclosed beds that provide warmth and security.
- Stretchers: Love large, open beds where they can sprawl out.
- Burrowers: Enjoy covered beds, tunnels, or cave-style options.
- High-Risers: Prefer elevated perches or hammock-style beds.
Pro Tip: Observe where and how your cat naps most often. That’s the style of bed they’ll gravitate toward.
2. Prioritize Comfort and Warmth
Cats love warm spots, which is why they steal your laptop, sunbathe in windows, and curl up in blankets. Choosing a self-warming bed or placing the bed in a naturally warm area increases the chances of them using it.
Best options for warmth:
- Self-heating beds (reflect body heat for extra coziness)
- Covered cave beds (traps warmth inside)
- Memory foam beds (provides comfort for older cats)
Engagement Hook: Ever caught your cat napping on your fresh-out-of-the-dryer laundry? That’s the level of warmth they’re after!
3. Look for Easy-to-Clean Materials
Cats shed. A lot. Choose a washable cat bed with a removable cover to keep their sleeping area clean and odor-free.
Best materials for cat beds:
- Faux fleece or plush for softness
- Durable cotton or microfiber for easy washing
- Water-resistant liners for accident-prone kittens or senior cats
4. Ensure a Safe, Non-Slip Base
A wobbly or unstable bed is a dealbreaker for most cats. Beds with non-slip bases prevent sliding, especially on hardwood floors.
5. Choose the Right Spot
Even the best cat bed won’t be used if it’s in an unappealing spot. Place it in a quiet, cozy corner where your cat already enjoys napping.
Ideal locations:
- Near a sunny window
- High-up perches for privacy
- Next to your bed for bonding
Funny Insight: If you place the bed where your cat already naps, they’ll believe it was their idea all along.
Top Recommended Cat Beds for Every Type of Sleeper
Here are some of the best cat beds that match different feline preferences:
🐾 Best for Cuddlers – Donut-shaped plush beds (soft, round, and cozy)
- Secure & Cozy: The cat bed features a higher supportive edge that offers excellent support for your pet’s neck and head….
- Non-shedding comfy fabric: This dog bed is made from non-shedding milk plush, helping to maintain a cleaner home, you wo…
- Anti-Slip Bottom: The round cat bed features a nonskid bottom, providing stability and preventing it from sliding. Wheth…
- 【Calming & Anti-Anxiety】:this fuzzy faux fur dog bed / calming cat bed is super fluffy to touch, soft & cozy, serves as …
- 【Supportive & Cuddly】: this cat calming bed / anxiety relief dog bed with sides contains 40% more filling compared to in…
- 【Machine Washable】: low maintenance has always been what we care, hence this must be an easy clean dog bed for small dog…
- Versatile 2-in-1 Comfort: Transform your pet’s playtime and rest with Lesure’s innovative 2-in-1 Cat Tunnel Bed. This de…
- Luxurious & Durable Materials: Crafted with plush jacquard shaggy sherpa for unmatched softness, our cat tunnel bed prom…
- Interactive Fun: Keep your cat entertained for hours! The Lesure cat tunnel can be shaped into a circle, S-shape, or sem…
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🐾 Best for Stretchers – Large memory foam beds (extra space for full-body naps)
🐾 Best for Burrowers – Cave-style beds (provides warmth and security)
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🐾 Best for High-Risers – Wall-mounted or hammock beds (for cats who love heights)
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Pro Tip: Rotating cat beds or having multiple options around your home increases the chances of your cat finding their perfect spot.
Making the Bed Irresistible to Your Cat
Once you’ve chosen the best cat bed, the final step is convincing your cat to actually use it.
- Sprinkle catnip inside to make it more enticing.
- Place a worn T-shirt or blanket inside to add a familiar scent.
- Use treats or toys to create positive associations.
- Position the bed in a spot they already love.
Engagement Hook: If your cat still prefers the box it came in, place the bed inside the box—you might just trick them into using it!
Key Insights
Choosing a cat bed is about understanding your cat’s preferences. Whether they love curling up in a cozy cave or stretching out on a plush cushion, the right bed can turn any corner into their favorite nap spot.
