Every cat owner knows that cats like to nap in their own space. You’ll end up with a grumpy cat if they don’t have a special napping spot to catch up on their rest. We all want the best for our kitties, but each has their own preferences for the type of space that they like to lounge in. Some are fine with a simple mat on the floor next to you, while others prefer an enclosed hideout where no one can find them.
Let’s explore the different types of cat beds available and how you can provide the best rest for your beloved feline.
The 14 Common Types of Cat Beds
1. Cat Cave
There are numerous cat cave styles, shapes, and sizes, but they all have similar characteristics. Cat caves provide an enclosed space with a small opening on one side for entry and exit. They are the perfect bed for cats that like to hide in small spaces.
2. Cushion
A simple cushion bed is probably the most common type of cat bed. It is a basic soft pad that sits on the floor and can be covered in various materials, like fur, Sherpa, or cotton. These beds are usually extra soft for cats to snuggle into, but they’re not ideal for cats that like to chew on or scratch their beds, as they have loose fibers that will easily come apart.
3. Heated Pad
A heated pad cat bed is exactly what it sounds like. Cats prefer the heat over the cold, which is why they often lounge next to sunny windows. Heated cat beds come in all shapes and sizes. While most cats can safely regulate their own body temperature, a heated bed may be necessary for hairless cats like Donskoys or Sphynxes that lack hair to keep themselves warm. However, most cats will enjoy a nice warm space to sleep, especially during the cold winter months.
4. Window Bed
Since cats love to gaze out the window, why not build their bed into the window? A window bed is like a window seat that attaches directly to the window frame. Some are designed like hanging hammocks or cots, while others have built-in cushioning. These can be used as your cat’s primary bed or as an extra spot for window gazing. They’re not ideal for large cats that would be too heavy to “hang” off the window.
5. Raised Bed
There isn’t a cat around that doesn’t want to be treated to a life of luxury. Whether you’ve got a fancy cat on your hands or just one that likes to sleep up high, an elevated bed is exactly what you need. These beds typically stand a couple of feet off the ground. Many are basket-style beds with cushioning inside and provide not only elevation but also extra privacy. Raised beds are good for agile cats that can easily get in and out of them, but they’re not ideal for cats with mobility issues.
6. Cat Pod
Cat pods, or spaceship beds, may be among the funkiest-looking cat beds on the market. Some attach to walls or windows, while others stand on their own, but they are all elevated in the air. These beds are ideal if you have a cat that likes to “supervise” the household. They also offer an enclosed hiding space out of view for those cats that like to hide.
7. Indoor/Outdoor
Cats that spend time both inside and out can benefit from an indoor/outdoor bed. Even if your cat only spends time on your balcony or deck, these beds give them space to relax in the sun and fresh air.
Outdoor mattresses are more durable than indoor ones; most can be washed off easily if they get dirty. These types are also great for taking on the go because many are foldable and waterproof.
8. Cat Sofa
If your cat likes to sleep on the couch, a cat sofa can give them their very own version to lie on. These are literally Sofa for cats and come in all sorts of sizes, colors, and styles to meet your design needs. While they look cute, most cat sofas don’t have much padding. If your cat likes to lie in an extra-cushioned space, this may not be the right bed for them.
9. Flat Mat
The basic flat mat doesn’t have much cushion or fluff, but it is a great option for cats that destroy their beds. While this problem is more common with dogs, some cats do it too. These mats aren’t destroyed as easily as most other beds. They’re also great for travel because they fold up and fit in most travel crates. The downside is that they don’t offer much cushioning.
10. Scratching Bed
The scratching bed is basically an upgraded cardboard box, but some cats love to sleep in boxes so they can scratch themselves on the corners and the outsides. These beds are extra durable for scratching and a great choice for a “play bed” or secondary bed. They don’t offer cushioning, and you can add a small blanket for snuggling, but some cats like their sleep space this way.
11. Burrow
Burrow beds enable cats to burrow inside them. They are functional beds and a great choice for older cats with joint pain. They offer plenty of cushioning for rolling and stretching because the bed moves with the cat. These beds are multi-purpose because your cat can lie on top of it or use it as a pillow while lying on the floor.
12. Memory Foam
Memory foam orthopedic beds are perfect for aging cats or cats with arthritis. They offer support for aching joints and are lined with thick foam that doesn’t flatten, but rather conforms to the shape of your cat’s body. Some memory foam beds have heating capabilities or cooling layers.
13. Bedside Caddy
A bedside caddy may be the way to go if you have a clingy cat that likes to share your bed. These beds hang between your mattress and box spring and enable your cat to sleep beside you without actually being in your bed. Unfortunately, if you have a big cat, you’re out of luck. Since these beds don’t anchor to your bedframe, cats that are too large won’t be supported well in these types of beds.
14. Bunk beds
If you have more than one cat in the house, cat bunk beds might offer a solution for a cat bed that takes up less space than most other options. They come in double and triple bed sizes and are cute additions to any room. The problem with bunk beds is that each cat must be willing to commit to a spot and share that spot with others; not all cats get along well enough to share their bed space.
Conclusion
Our cats are family, so we want to give them the comfiest bed possible. Hopefully, we’ve given you a good overview of the different types of cat beds on the market to help you find one that’s best for your cat. With so many options available, you are sure to find one that meets your cat’s needs and your own!
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Featured Image Credit: Aleksandar Cvetanovic, Unsplash
