You buy a plush, beautiful cat bed, and your cat sleeps in the cardboard box it came in. Every cat parent knows the feeling. The truth is that cats are particular about where they sleep, and the right bed depends entirely on your cat's personality and habits. Here is how to pick one they will actually use.
First, watch how your cat sleeps
Your cat is already telling you what they like. Notice their go-to spots and positions:
- Curls into a tight ball? They will love a round, bolstered bed or a cave.
- Sprawls out flat? They want a flat mat or an open cushion with room to stretch.
- Hides under blankets and in boxes? An enclosed cave bed will feel safe.
- Perches up high, watching everything? A window hammock or elevated bed is the dream.
The main cat bed types
Bolstered and sofa beds
Raised edges give a sense of security and a built-in pillow. Great for cats who curl up and like to rest their head on something.
A soft, bolstered nest with cushioned sides, ideal for cats who curl up and like to lean on something.
Shop nowCave and enclosed beds
Covered, den-like beds appeal to cats who crave privacy and warmth, and to shy or anxious cats who like to hide. Picture a nervous rescue cat who finally relaxes once they have a cozy cave to retreat into.
A semi-enclosed cave that feels safe and warm, perfect for shy cats and dedicated burrowers.
Shop nowHammocks and perches
Window hammocks satisfy a cat's love of height, sunshine, and surveillance, perfect for the cat who claims the back of the sofa or the windowsill.
A suction-cup window perch for sun-worshippers who like to nap up high and watch the world go by.
Shop nowSizing and placement tips
- Size: big enough to stretch a little, snug enough to feel secure. Most cats like cozy over cavernous.
- Placement: warm, draft-free, and in a spot your cat already gravitates to, like a sunny window or a quiet corner.
- Multiple cats: offer more beds than cats so no one gets boxed out.
- Washability: removable, machine-washable covers make life much easier.
Help them love it
Place the new bed in a favorite napping spot, add a familiar-smelling blanket or a sprinkle of catnip, and give it time. Cats often need a few days to claim a new bed as their own. Browse our full range of cat beds and everything else for your cat. Every purchase helps a shelter cat find a comfy bed of their very own.