If you’re a cat owner, you probably know cats like to sleep… a lot. Finding the best cat beds usually means combing through reviews, determining what features are the most important to both you and your kitty and deciding on the best design for your space. In this article, we hope to do some of the heavy lifting for you.
Here at tuft + paw, we are cat experts. We're intimately familiar with features that are most important to cats, like sturdiness and materials. We searched through dozens of cat beds and found ten different cat beds that are great for a variety of homes, cats and styles. We interviewed cat veterinarians, cat behaviorists, and product designers on what features are most important to look for when purchasing a cat bed.
If you're concerned about your cat actually using their bed, check out our full guide on how to get your cat to use a new bed.
Cheat Sheet: The Best Cat Beds
| Best Overall | tuft + paw Kip Cat Cushion |
| Best Budget | Nisrada Cat Bed |
| Best Modern | tuft + paw Stellar Cat Bed |
| Best on Amazon | Pet Craft Supply Soho Cat Bed |
| Most Unique | tuft + paw Happy Camper Cat Tent Bed |
Why Cats Need Cat Beds
Cats need a bed for a variety of reasons: comfort, solitude, rest, and more. Consider beds one of the basic needs of a cat--after all they sleep almost sixteen hours a day! Beds help relax your cat and prevent stress in multi-cat households. Veterinarian Megan Tieber talked to us about what can happen when your cat gets stressed:
“If a cat feels stressed they are more likely to display problem behaviors, such as urinating out of the litterbox or fighting with other cats. Chronic medical conditions including bladder disease or upper respiratory infections can also flare-up. Providing a cat with his or her own resources, including a bed and tree, is the single most important thing you can do to reduce friction between household cats.”
Nuzzle Cat Bed by tuft + paw Credit: @marylou.angelcat on Instagram
Territory
Cats may not care for your personal space, but they certainly care about theirs. This becomes very important in multi-cat households where cats are trying to create a hierarchical structure to their territory. Supplying each cat with their own bed allows them to have their own space to rest and relax without having to worry about another cat, or a human, making them move.
Relaxation
Cats sleep up to 16 hours a day, so a nice spot to sleep in is great for them. As a bonus, it keeps their hair out of the linen closet or your fresh laundry! Since sleep is so vital for cats, it’s good to have their own secluded spot just for that purpose.
Cat Bed Features
There are all kinds of cat beds out there and it can be difficult to know what features to look for. Here we picked a few that we think are important to consider when purchasing a cat bed. Remember, you know your cat best! If you observe where they like to sleep the most, you can probably figure out what features will be the most important for your cat.
Soft Surface
Cats that love human beds, couches, towels and more will probably appreciate having a soft surface to lay on. Memory foam is a great option since it supports the pretzel positions cats get into, but other foam surfaces are comfortable too.
Heated Padding
If your cat snuggles up for body heat in the winter, you may want to invest in a heated bed. Cats that are in colder climates will appreciate having a heating pad under them and you can enjoy having your bed back again.
Seclusion
Do you own a shy cat? Perhaps a cat that likes to keep to themselves most of the day? Consider getting an enclosed cat bed, like a cat cave, for them to sleep in. The enclosed space helps cats feel secure and gives them their privacy to sleep and relax.
Washable
This is an important feature for humans! Cats are notorious shedders, and it’s great when you can throw their favorite sleeping spot into the washer and be done. The easier the surface is to wash, the happier both you and your cat will be.
Cat Bed FAQs
How do I clean my cat bed?
It’s important to check the label for care instructions before doing any cleaning. Some cat beds are washable, but need to be air dried. Other cat beds can handle spot treatments or damp cloths. Baking soda is a great, pet-safe way to help freshen up most beds.
How do I convince my cat to use a cat bed?
Chances are your cat won’t want to spend all their sleeping time in their bed right away, and may have their favorite spots next to you. The best way to coach a cat to use their bed is to be sure to put it near their favorite sleeping area. If your cat loves to sleep near you, don’t put the bed in a room they never go in.
Be sure to reward your cats with treats while they’re in their bed, or use catnip to make the bed more pleasurable and exciting. These steps may convince your cat to spend a little more time in their new bed.
Are heated cat beds safe?
Most heated cat beds are fairly low wattage, so they aren’t a risk for getting too hot or causing burns--they are just warm to the touch. If you’re worried about your heated cat bed, be sure to unplug it when it’s not in use or when you’re leaving the house for peace of mind.
How do I choose a cat bed my cat will like?
Be sure to spend some time watching your cat’s habits. By observing cat behavior, you’ll be able to tell where your cat likes to sleep the most and what surfaces they are most drawn to. That’ll help you choose the right cat bed for your furry friend.
@tuftandpaw Replying to @dndgrl one of our new team members recently got the kip cat bed, here’s what his cat thought 👀 #catbed #catproducts #catfurniture #unboxingasmr ♬ original sound - tuft + paw
Deep Dive: The 10 Best Cat Beds
Best Overall: tuft + paw Kip Cat Cushion
Price: $99
Rating: 4.9/5 with 94 reviews
Materials: Molded foam, faux shearling, ultrasuede base
The Kip Cat Cushion is the ideal classic cat bed. It's made of molded foam and covered in faux shearling to provide a cozy yet sturdy texture. The gently scooped bowl is the perfect shape for loafing or curling up in, and the ultrasuede base prevents it from sliding around on smooth surfaces. Bonus for cat parents: it's just nice to look at! The sleek design fits seamlessly into any decor style.
| Pros | Cons |
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Materials: The molded foam and faux shearling are cozy and durable. |
Price: On the pricier side because of the high-quality materials. |
| Style: This cat bed adds style to your home while giving comfort to your cat. | |
| Shape: We've had so many cat parents tell us how much their cat loves to curl up in the gentle scoop of this bed. Seems like winner so far! |
Runner Up: The Whisker Box
Credit: Whisker Box
Price: $42
Rating: N/A
Materials: Nylon canvas, recycled wool felt core
The Whisker Box is all about the squeeze. It creates comforting compression by using a flexible eco-felt core. That means when your cat squeezes in, they feel hugged and comforted by the secure space. It might look too small at first, but that's exactly the point. Think of it like a deluxe, flexible cardboard box. Of course, not every cat will gravitate towards a bed like this. If your kitty prefers sprawling out on the couch or curling up in cushioned spots, this bed might not cater to their preferences.
| Pros | Cons |
|
Therapy Based: This innovative cat bed is made by vets and uses compression therapy to make the cat feel as comfortable and safe as possible. |
Not Plush: If your cat favors soft cushions, this may not be the bed for them. |
| Price: This cat bed isn’t going to break the bank. |
Small Size: If your cat likes to stretch out when sleeping, they might not use this bed much. |
| Portable: This bed can be packed flat. |
Best Budget: Nisrada Cat Bed
Credit: Amazon
Price: $15
Rating: 4.6/5 with 1,500 Amazon reviews
Materials: faux fur, cotton blend filling
Cozy as can be, this super plush cat bed is great for sinking into a good night’s sleep. Even better, it’s easy to wash! Your cat’s bed will be fresh as can be as often as you want. You can also choose the size and color you desire, so it’s easy to personalize for your cat. The smallest size should be roomy enough for most cats, but Nisrada offers larger sizes as well.
| Pros | Cons |
|
Price: Starting at under $20, this bed won’t break the bank. |
Lower Quality: Cheaper products tend to not last as long. |
|
Cozy: Faux fur and plush filling make this bed very warm and snuggly |
Style: As a budget pick, this bed's design is not particularly stylish. |
Runner Up: Frisco Sherpa Orthopedic Bolster Cat Bed
Credit: Chewy
Price: $24
Rating: 4.6/5 with 1,600 Chewy reviews
Materials: Memory foam, polyester plush filling, synthetic chenille fabric
This affordable bolster bed is great for any cat, but elderly and arthritic cats will benefit the most from it. It's made with memory foam for extra joint support and the wrap around bolster acts as a raised headrest. The double-sided center pillow has faux fur on one side and smooth twill on the other, which basically provides a winter bed and a summer bed in one! Of course, as a budget pick this bed may not hold up to extended wear and tear, and it's not the nicest looking.
| Pros | Cons |
| Price: Starting at under $25, this bed won’t break the bank. |
Lower Quality: Cheaper products tend to not last as long. |
|
Double-Sided Cushion: Faux fur for cold days, smooth twill for hot days |
Style: As a budget pick, this bed's design is not particularly stylish. |
|
Supportive: Memory foam and bolster provides orthopedic support for sore joints |
Best Modern: tuft + paw Stellar Cat Bed
Price: $299
Rating: 4.5/5 with 32 reviews
Materials: Yarn & resin, steel base, foam, ultrasuede, faux fur
The Stellar Cat Bed is as modern as it gets. It’s basically your cat’s personal relaxation pod! With sleek lines and a textured exterior, this cat bed adds style to your home and matches many contemporary interiors. As for your furry friend, the rounded walls and soft foam cushion provides support and comfort. If your cat prefers curling up in enclosed spaces over sprawling in the open, this bed is perfect for them.
| Pros | Cons |
|
Modern Design: The beautiful refined look of this bed will match with any decor style. |
Price: This luxurious cat bed comes with a price tag to match. |
|
Comfortable: Faux-fur-lined foam cushion for ultimate comfort. |
|
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Materials: This bed's high-quality materials will last for years. |
Runner Up: Sunexinlo Cat Hammock Bed
Credit: Wayfair
Price: $63
Rating: N/A
Materials: Polyester mesh, metal base
The Sunexlio Cat Hammock is a simple bed option with understated style. Its rounded lines are easy on the eyes, while the metal base and polyester mesh hammock create a stable and comfortable hangout zone. Cats who like to sleep curled up will love this option, particularly in the warm summer months. On the other hand, the lack of insulation might not be warm enough for some, and the raised hammock might be inaccessible for elderly or arthritic cats. Lastly, the recommended weight limit of 9 lbs means this hammock is best for kittens and smaller cats.
| Pros | Cons |
|
Simple Design: This bed's streamlined look isn't an eyesore. |
Warmth: If your cat seeks out heated places, this bed might not be warm enough for them. |
|
Breathable: The breezy mesh will stay comfortable on hot summer days. |
Accessibility: Senior and arthritic cats may have trouble getting into this raised bed. |
| Packable: Can be easily disassembled and moved. | Size: May not be roomy enough for big cats. Recommended weight limit is 9 lbs. |
Best on Amazon: Pet Craft Supply Soho Round Cat Bed
Credit: Amazon
Price: $40
Rating: 4.3/5 with 5,700 Amazon reviews
Materials: Memory foam, linen, faux fur
This round memory foam bed is great for cats that love the comfort of cushions. It’s machine washable, so it’s easy to keep clean as well. With high walls and a sunken center, cats will feel safe and secure in this cat bed. Overall, it's a good bed that should satisfy most cats, though cat parents with an eye for design may find it lacking in style.
| Pros | Cons |
|
Comfortable: Memory foam adds extra comfort and faux fur keeps in the warmth. |
Style: It’s fairly cat bed 101, so it’s not going to win any design awards. |
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Machine-Washable: So it’s always fresh for your furry companion. |
Runner Up: K&H Pet Products Thermo-Mod Dream Pod
Credit: Amazon
Price: $71
Rating: 4.4/5 with 1,300 Amazon reviews
Materials: Polyester
The Thermo-Mod Dream Pod looks a bit like a flying saucer, so you’ll either love it or hate it. Personally, we think it’s pretty cool! This is a heated cat bed that warms up slightly when your cat enters, making it perfect for chilly winter nights. Cats that prefer enclosed spaces or just want a little extra heat will love to curl up in here.
| Pros | Cons |
|
Heated Bed: Great for cold weather areas or cats that appreciate just a little extra warmth. |
Warmth: Some reviewers feel the heater doesn’t get hot enough. |
| Cave Formation: Cats love a little hidey-hole to snuggle into. | Outlet Needed: This cat bed needs to be plugged in for the heater to work, which limits where you can put it. |
Most Unique: tuft + paw Happy Camper Cat Bed
Price: $249
Rating: 4.5/5 with 11 reviews
Materials: Premium plywood, ash veneer, felt, faux fur cushion
Is it sculpture or is it a cat bed, who can decide? This reversible cat bed is conal in shape, making it one of the most unique cat beds on the list. The geometric wooden panels are covered in ash veneer on one side and scratchable felt on the other, so it's up to you (and your cat) which side you want to see. It also doubles as a scratching post! Inside is a faux fur cushion, perfect for an afternoon cat nap.
| Pros | Cons |
|
Modern Design: This cat bed features a beautiful design that you won’t find anywhere else. |
Price: This bed is made with high-quality ash veneer and felt, and the price reflects that. |
| Cat Cave: Cat caves help your cat feel secure and private while resting. | |
| Multi-Purpose: This bed is equally great for sleeping and scratching. |
Runner Up: Meowfia Merino Felted Cat Cave
Credit: Meowfia
Price: $40
Rating: 4.6/5 with 5,600 Amazon reviews
Materials: Felted merino wool
This cat bed is made from 100% merino wool and felted into a snuggly round cat cave. The wool felt traps heat inside and provides a soft surface that's satisfying to scratch. Perhaps best of all, the structure can be interchangeably used as a cat cave or collapsed into a flat bed depending on what your cat prefers. It's versatile, natural, and pretty dang cute.
| Pros | Cons |
| Design: A unique design that’s sure to be a conversation starter. |
Wool: Cats and humans with wool allergies should avoid this bed |
| Quality Construction: Hand felted in Nepal and made from pure merino wool. | Dust: The entirely felted structure can quickly collect dust. |
| Versatile: Can be used as a cave or as a flat bed. | Smell: Some reviewers (human and feline) don't like the smell of this bed. |
Conclusion
That wraps up our list of the best cat beds! We hope you found this article useful in your search for the perfect snoozing spot for your kitty. Every cat has their own specific preferences, so make sure you pay attention to where your cat likes to sleep and relax before picking out a cat bed. This list just scratches the surface of the diversity of cat beds out there, so don't be afraid to keep researching.
One last tip: If your cat doesn't care for conventional beds, a window hammock could be just the thing. It provides an elevated perch and fascinating views of the outside world—deluxe cat TV, if you will. It's also great for humans because it takes up zero floor space! The Cloud Nine Window Hammock is our personal favourite, but there are lots of option out there.
Check out some of our other educational cat content below.
Suggested Reading
How to Introduce Your Cat to New Furniture
5 Best Non-Tracking Cat Litters
