Cats are notorious for turning up their noses at expensive toys in favor of everyday objects like bottle caps and rubber bands. It is also common for cats to sleep in strange places like the middle of a laundry basket full of clean clothes or on top of your laptop keyboard. It’s a mystery what makes a cat choose to sleep where he chooses to sleep, but you have to assume that comfort is a factor.
So, when choosing a cat bed for your cat, comfort is definitely something to think about. Cat beds come in all shapes and sizes, so it can be difficult to predict which type your cat will like and actually use. The best thing you can do is learn about the different options available and choose the one you think is going to be a good fit. Keep reading to learn about the top 10 cat beds to see which one might be the right choice for your cat.
#1 PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge
The PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge may not look like your typical cat bed, but there is a reason it has over 6,000 positive reviews. This cat bed doubles as a scratcher and a bed, offering your cat comfort as well as exercise and activity. It is made from nontoxic recycled cardboard in an attractive design that won’t clash with your home décor scheme. This bed is generously sized and because it doesn’t have an enclosed design, it works for cats of all sizes. Plus, it comes in three different colors to suit your preferences.
Thoughtfully designed with curves to accommodate both scratching and sleeping, the PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge is a dual-purpose cat bed. This cat bed will fulfill your cat’s desire to scratch, saving your furniture from those sharp claws. Plus, it is double-sided which means it will last twice as long. When your cat is worn out from scratching, he can simply climb on top and lay down to take a nap. The surface is large enough to accommodate a full stretch or, if your cat is feeling friendly, for multiple cats to cuddle up together. It also comes with USA organic catnip that you can sprinkle on to attract your cat to the scratcher.
Pros: made from nontoxic recycled material, dual-purpose bed and scratcher, large surface for stretching or multiple cats, double-sided for long-lasting use, comes with USA organic catnip
Cons: not padded like a traditional cat bed, not water resistant or washable, somewhat expensive
#2 K&H Pet Products Thermo-Kitty Heated Cat Bed
If your cat still turns up his nose at a high-end, thickly padded cat bed then you may need to go above and beyond to make a cat bed more appealing to him. One way to do it is to choose an option like the K&H Pet Products Thermo-Kitty Heated Cat Bed. This cat bed features a 4-watt heater with soft foam walls that enclose your cat in heated comfort. The bed itself is round with a thickly padded base to keep your cat toasty warm. This bed comes in two sizes (16 and 20 inches) with high 6-inch walls to keep all the warmth where your cat needs it most.
The K&H Pet Products Thermo-Kitty Heated Cat Bed comes in two neutral tones, so it will fit easily into your home décor scheme no matter where you put it. The cover is removable for easy cleaning and you can easily remove the heater as well. During the summer, you can remove the heater completely and replace it when the weather cools down in the fall and winter. The heater features a dual thermostat and it automatically warms the bed to 10 to 15 degrees higher than the ambient air temperature. No matter what time of year it is, however, this deluxe cat bed will cushion your cat in comfort for hours on end. Plus, it’s protected by a one-year warranty.
Pros: comes with an integrated heater, soft foam walls for comfort, high 6-inch sides to retain heat, padded pillow base, removable cover is machine washable, heater automatically heats to 10 to 15 degrees higher than ambient air temperature, covered by 1-year warranty
Cons: not recommended for outdoor use, not waterproof, cover is not dryer-friendly
#3 Armarkat Cave Shape Cat Bed
Cats love to feel secure which is why the Armarkat Cave Shape Cat Bed is such a great option. This cave-style cat bed cushions your cat in comfort while also keep him snug and secure while he sleeps. It is made from soft velvet materials with a thickly padded base to keep your cat warm and comfortable, trapping his body heat for extra warmth. It comes in a wide range of sizes to accommodate the smallest kittens all the way up to the biggest adult cats and there are several color choices as well. Overall, it is easy to find a model that fits with your home décor scheme.
The Armarkat Cave Shape Cat Bed is practical yet luxurious, featuring a nonskid base and protected by a washable, stain-resistant cover. If the bed gets dirty, simply remove the cover and throw it in the washing machine. You’ll also be glad to know that the bottom of the bed is waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about accidents. The only challenges with this bed are that the shape may not hold if a larger cat tries to climb on top of it and some users say that it has a slight chemical smell when it is first removed from the packaging.
Pros: made from soft velvet materials, plush padded base for comfort, nonskid base keeps the bed where you put it, cave-like design keeps cats warm and secure, comes in several sizes and colors, removable cover is machine-washable
Cons: may have a chemical smell at first, structure may not hold if cats jump on it
#4 Twin Critters Handcrafted KittiCubbi Cat Bed
If you are looking for an all-natural cat bed that is still appealing to cats, consider the Twin Critters Handcrafted KittiCubbi Cat Bed. Made from ultra-comfortable felted wool, this ecofriendly cat bed is a great option. In addition to being super-soft, it is uniquely designed to keep your cat cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It features a cave-like design which cuddles your cat in comfort while also making him feel safe and secure. Best of all, it is handcrafted by skilled artisans, so you can feel good about buying it for your cat.
The Twin Critters Handcrafted KittiCubbi Cat Bed comes in a wide range of colors, all made from 100% natural merino wool. This cat bed is generously sized, so it works well for even large cats, including Maine Coons. It can also be flattened and used as a padded crate mat. This cat bed is free from harsh chemicals and synthetic materials and the materials are naturally dirt-repellent. If you do need to clean the bed, you can spot-clean it with a soft rag and warm water. For heavier soiling, the bed can be machine-washed cold and laid flat to dry.
Pros: made from 100% natural merino wool, handcrafted by artisans, naturally repels dirt and moisture, cave-like design keeps cats warm and secure, available in many colors, no harsh chemicals or synthetic materials, easy to clean
Cons: may need to be shaped after shipping or washing, not padded on the inside
#5 MidWest Homes Deluxe Super Plush Cat Bed
Available in seven different sizes, the MidWest Homes Deluxe Super Plush Cat Bed is specifically designed for use in a crate or carrier. It is made from ultra-soft synthetic materials in an attractive ombre swirl pattern in a neutral grey color to fit with any décor scheme. This crate mat is padded for comfort and features a non-skid underside so you have the option to use it on hardwood or tile floors as well as in your cat’s crate.
The MidWest Homes Deluxe Super Plush Cat Bed is affordably priced and easy to clean and maintain. Simply throw the entire bed in the washer and lay flat to dry. This cat bed holds up well against kneading and it holds its shape well. The only downside is that it isn’t water-resistant, so if your cat has an accident in the crate, the liquid could pool under the bed. Overall, however, this cat bed is a comfortable and affordable option.
Pros: available in seven different sizes, works well in crates and carriers, made from ultra-soft synthetic materials, lushly padded with polyester fiberfill, machine washable, holds its shape well, non-skid underside for use on hard surfaces
Cons: not waterproof, larger sizes may not fit in a standard crate, no removable cove
#6 K &H Pet Products Outdoor Kitty House
While the K &H Pet Products Outdoor Kitty House may not look like your typical cat bed, it certainly serves its purpose as such. What makes this cat bed unique is the fact that it is designed specifically for outdoor use. Made from ultra-durable 600 denier Nylon, this outdoor cat house is water-resistant to protect your cat from the elements. Keep in mind, however, that it is not completely waterproof so it is best used in sheltered areas such as a covered porch or in a garage.
The K &H Pet Products Outdoor Kitty House features two doors on either side, making it easy for your cat to enter and exit as he pleases. This dual-door design also ensures that your cat has an emergency escape route so he can’t be trapped by predators. Both the doors and walls of the house are removable for easy cleaning and even the roof comes off with a simple zipper. To make this cat bed even better, there is a heated version which is ideal for winter use and you can add a padded crate liner or mat-style cat bed to make it even comfier for your cat.
Pros: designed to protect your cat from the elements, made from durable 600 denier Nylon, features two doors for easy entry and exit, doors and roof are removable, available heated version
Cons: not waterproof (needs to be in a covered area), may not be big enough for very large cats
#7 Kitty Cot World’s Best Cat Perch
Indoor cats are fascinated by the outside world and they will gladly spend the entire day staring out the window. For a cat bed that keeps your cat comfortable while he keeps watch, consider the Kitty Cot World’s Best Cat Perch. This cat perch can be attached to any window using large, patented USA suction cups and the perch itself is durably constructed from super-tough PVC plastic pipe. It comes in three sizes (small, medium, and large) to accommodate cats of all sizes and it is approved by the Humane Society, so you know it’s a good product.
The Kitty Cot World’s Best Cat Perch features a heavy-duty frame covered with water-resistant fabric that stands up well against even the sharpest cat claws. Use the perch alone or top it with a padded crate mat for an extra degree of comfort. The perch is easy to spot-clean with soap and water and it is highly durable. Plus, with stainless steel support cables and suction cups rated for 25 pounds, you can rest easy knowing that it is safe as well as comfortable.
Pros: made from heavy-duty materials, attaches to window using suction cups, stainless steel support cables, lightweight frame, can be used with cat beds or crate mats, easy to clean
Cons: surface is not padded, suction cup fitting may slip out of the PVC as it wears out
#8 Best Pet Supplies Tent Bed
Even if you have an indoor cat, you can give him a taste of experiencing the great outdoors with this tent-style cat bed. The Best Pet Supplies Tent Bed is a cozy and comfortable option for cats that like to sleep in enclosed beds. It features a unique tent-like design with padded walls to cushion your cat in comfort while still giving him enough vertical room to sit up or change positions. It is made from soft corduroy and faux suede and it comes in four different sizes as well as several different color options to suit any home décor scheme.
The Best Pet Supplies Tent Bed encloses your cat in comfort to keep him warm in the winter while also giving him the privacy he desires. Though designed primarily for comfort, this cat bed is also made for durability. The design is also very sturdy, less likely to collapse than other similar models. The Best Pet Supplies Tent Bed features a waterproof bottom and the cushion can be removed and washed in the washing machine. You can also wash the entire bed if it will fit in your machine, but reshape it and let it air dry instead of putting it through the dryer.
Pros: made from soft and comfortable materials, tent-like design provides warmth and security, available in several sizes and colors, machine-washable for easy cleaning, unique and timeless look
Cons: may have a slight chemical smell at first, bottom may go flat over time, shape may collapse over time or with frequent washing
#9 MidWest Curious Cat Cube Condo
If you have limited space in your home, the MidWest Curious Cat Cube Condo is a great option because it doubles as both a cat bed and a cat house or condo. This cube-like cat bed features a strong, sturdy construction so your cat can hop on top to get a higher vantage point. If he wants to take a nap, he can simply step inside the cube and rest on the padded cushion covered with ultra-soft synthetic sheepskin. Best of all, the whole unit collapses and folds flat for storage or travel.
The MidWest Curious Cat Cube Condo comes in several different models, so you can choose the one that best suits your cat as well as your home décor scheme. In addition to the padded interior, this cat condo also features several “hide and seek” cutouts to encourage play. You’ll also love that it is generously sized, able to accommodate very large cats or multiple cats at one time.
Pros: sturdy design, padded interior cushion for comfort, designed to encourage play, doubles as a cat bed and cat condo, several color options and sizes, large enough for big cats or multiple cats
Cons: may be too large for very small spaces, toys that come included are not particularly durable, cube itself is not machine-washable
#10 Aspen Self-Warming Cat Bed
While it may not be as durable and long-lasting as some of the more expensive options on the market, the Aspen Self-Warming Cat Bed is a budget-friendly option that many cats find perfectly acceptable. This cat bed features a lightweight polyester construction with a special padded interior that reflects your cat’s body heat to cushion him in comfort and warmth. The bed features a comfortable round design with thickly padded bolsters and it comes in several sizes to accommodate kittens through larger cats. Plus, it comes in several color combinations to match your home décor.
The Aspen Self-Warming Cat Bed features a non-skid bottom to keep the bed in place on hardwood or tile floors. The corduroy exterior is attractive while the faux lambswool interior is soft and comfortable. To wash the bed, simply throw it in the washing machine with some mild detergent then reshape it and let it air dry. Just keep in mind that the bed will wear out more quickly if you wash it too frequently, so try to spot-clean as needed.
Pros: thickly padded for comfort, naturally reflects body heat to keep cat warm, attractive corduroy exterior and lambswool interior, available in several sizes and colors, machine washable
Cons: not the most durable option on the market, no removable cover, not waterproof
Tips for Choosing a Cat Bed
Cats spend a significant portion of their day sleeping, so you want to provide your cat with a comfortable place to rest. But what exactly should you look for when shopping for cat beds? Here are some things to consider:
Size – When selecting the right size for your cat’s bed, you need to walk the line between making him feel secure and giving him enough room to stretch out. To determine the right size for your cat’s bed, measure the length of his body from head to the base of his tail and add a few inches for stretch.
Shape – In addition to choosing the right size in a cat bed, you also have to think about the shape and design. The bed should be easy for your cat to get in and out of while still providing plenty of cushion for comfort. Some cat beds are round with padded bolsters for cushion and comfort while others are more cave-like in design for added privacy and security.
Materials – When considering materials for your cat bed, think about what materials are going to be durable as well as easy to clean. Heavy-duty fabrics like Nylon are easy to clean while softer fabrics may be machine-washable. You also want to make sure the materials are nontoxic, both in the lining and in the cover for the cat bed.
Cleaning – Many cat beds feature a removable cover that is machine washable – this is a great feature. If the materials are not machine-washable, you should at least ensure that they are easy to spot-clean. If the only option is to throw the entire bed in the wash, you may have trouble reshaping the bed after it dries.
Durability – While cats don’t tend to chew on things as much as dogs, they do have very sharp claws. When shopping for a cat bed, look for one that is durable enough to withstand some kneading – it should also be durable enough to handle multiple washes.
In the end, you can’t predict whether your cat will like the bed you’ve chosen for him. The best thing you can do is choose a cat bed that is comfortable, durable, and easy to clean.
