Our Review Process
Our reviews are based on extensive research and, when possible, hands-on testing. Each time you make a purchase through one of our independently-chosen links, we’ll receive a percentage of the proceeds. Read more about how we’re supported here.At the end of a long day, all you want to do is curl up in a nice, comfy bed. Doesn’t your cat deserve the same? The trouble many cat owners run into is that their cats tend to ignore the special (often expensive) items we buy them in favor of the box they came in.
So, how do you choose a bed your cat will actually like?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer but there are certain features and characteristics you should look for in a cat bed. The right bed will provide your cat not only with a comfortable surface for sleep, but it can become a place for him to call his own. That’s all anyone really wants.
At A Glance: Our Top Picks For Best Cat Beds
In the comparison table below, we’ve highlighted some of the most important features of each product. You’ll find more detailed information about each product later in the article.
K&H Thermo Kitty Cat Bed
- Orthopedic foam base for comfort
- Raised edges and round shape perfect for cuddling
- Integrated heater keeps the bed warm
Pet Magasin Self-Warming Cat Cave
- Versatile, can be used in four different ways
- Faux-fur lining creates a self-warming effect
- Machine-washable on the cold, gentle cycle
K&H Self-Warming Pad
- Made with microfleece and self-warming material
- Affordably priced under $15
- Reversible and available in several colors
Feltcave Wool Cat Cave
- Handcrafted from 100% merino wool
- Cave-like design is cozy and protected
- Material naturally repels odor, dirt, and stains
Armarkat Cave Shape Covered Bed
- Enclosed design provides security
- Ultra-soft materials with plenty of padding
- Anti-skid, waterproof base
K&H EZ Mount Kitty Sill
- Sturdy steel frame holds up to 100 pounds
- Great for cats who like to look out the window
- Surface covered in soft faux fleece material
Top Picks Explained:
What To Look For When Buying A Cat Bed?
Cats have a tendency to sleep in strange places – anywhere except where you want them to. This makes finding a bed your cat will sleep in a difficult task. Fortunately, we’ve done the hard work for you in testing and researching some of the top cat beds on the market to help you make the right choice.
Here is what our checklist looked like as we searched for the elusive perfect cat bed:
- Comfort – What’s the point of a cat bed if it isn’t comfortable? We looked for a cat bed that was designed to accommodate various sleeping positions and was made from soft materials with the right amount of padding for optimal comfort.
- Durability – Each kitty has a different personality and some are more playful than others. Some cats have a tendency to scratch and others like to knead before they settle down. We looked for a cat bed that was made from durable materials to withstand a cat’s sharp claws.
- Easy to Clean – As a cat owner, everything you own is probably already covered in cat hair. We looked for a bed that was easy to clean, paying particular attention to models with removable covers that make them machine washable.
- Support – As your cat gets older, his joints may start to ache and he may develop issues like arthritis that can make it difficult for him to sleep comfortably. We looked for a cat bed that offered support both in the base and around the edges for cats who need it.
- Price – Everything comes with a price, but you don’t necessarily need to spend a small fortune to find a bed your cat will love. We tested cat beds on all levels of the price spectrum.
- Customer Service – Our reasoning here? Good customer service goes hand-in-hand with quality products. If there’s an issue with the bed, you want to know there’s someone you can contact.
We found the following products to be our top picks for the most loved cat beds. Hope this helps in your search for a suitable bed for your cat!
The Top 12 Best Cat Beds On The Market
#1 Best Heated Bed: K&H Thermo Kitty Cat Bed
Available in two different sizes, this circular cat bed features an integrated heating pad that warms the surface of the bed 10 to 15 degrees above the ambient temperature in the room. This puts the bed roughly in the same temperature range as your cat’s body temperature.
This heated cat bed is perfect for colder climates or for winter use, though there’s nothing to stop your cat from using it all year-round. It features a thick orthopedic foam base to make it extra comfy and to provide an added degree of support for cats who have joint issues. Plus, the removable cover is machine washable, just be sure you hang it up to dry.
In terms of potential downsides for this cat bed, the raised edges may be a little high for cats with mobility issues. Additionally, because it is a heated bed, you may be limited in terms of location because it needs to be close enough to an outlet that you can plug it in.
Pros
- Orthopedic foam base for comfort
- Raised edges and round shape perfect for cuddling
- Integrated heater keeps the bed warm
- Available in two different sizes
Cons
- Raised edges may be an issue for some cats
- Must be placed within 5 feet of an electrical outlet
#2 Runner-Up: Pet Magasin Self-Warming Cat Cave
Some cats simply love to snuggle and this cave-style cat bed from Pet Magasin is a great option for such a cat. Constructed with a microfiber outer shell and soft faux-fur interior, this cat bed has just enough padding to keep your cat comfortable and the cave-style design traps their body heat to create a self-warming effect.
If your cat prefers an open-style cat bed, you can simply roll down the sides of the cave to create a cozy cup-like cuddler. The bed can also be used as a pod or laid out flat for use as a self-warming pad. When it gets dirty, you can throw the entire thing in the washing machine on the gentle cycle with cold water then hang to dry.
While the versatility of this cat bed makes it worth the $30 price tag, it may not be the best choice for very large cats. Some reviewers also report that the stitching on the seams tends to come apart with frequent use of the bed.
Pros
- Versatile, can be used in four different ways
- Faux-fur lining creates a self-warming effect
- Machine-washable on the cold, gentle cycle
Cons
- Stitching at the seams comes loose
- Not appropriate for very large cats
#3 Best Budget: K&H Self-Warming Pad
View On Chewy View On Amazon View On Petco
If you’re looking for a cat bed to keep your kitty warm but you’re not prepared to spend $50, this self-warming pad is an excellent option. Not only is it affordably priced under $15 but it comes in two colors to match your home décor. It can also be used as a carrier liner.
This self-warming pad is covered in a soft microfleece material which makes it a cozy spot for your cat to curl up in. It’s made with self-warming materials as well that reflect your cat’s body heat back to keep him warm. Because it doesn’t require electricity like the previous model, you can place it anywhere.
Though this self-warming pad is great for lining a carrier or for general use, some customers found it too small and others didn’t think the warming feature worked well.
Pros
- Made with microfleece and self-warming material
- Affordably priced under $15
- Reversible and available in several colors
Cons
- Some users found it too small
- No removable cover
#4 Premium Pick: Feltcave Wool Cat Cave
Handcrafted from 100% merino wool, this comfy cat bed is the perfect pick if you want to spoil your cat. It features a cozy cave-like design and comes eight different colors. This cat bed is hand-felted from soft but durable materials, so it will retain its cave-like shape.
This felt cat bed is easy to clean and the merino wool naturally repels odor, dirt, and stains. To remove accumulated cat hair, you can simply use a vacuum or, for spills and stains, handwash with warm water and detergent then let air dry.
For being handmade from premium materials, this cat bed is reasonably priced at $50. One thing to keep in mind is that this bed is intended for cats 15 pounds or less and, because each bed is made by hand, the dimensions may vary slightly from one product to another.
Pros
- Handcrafted from 100% merino wool
- Cave-like design is cozy and protected
- Available in eight different colors
- Material naturally repels odor, dirt, and stains
Cons
- May be a little more expensive than other options
- Some cats don’t take to the cave-like design
#5 Best for Cats Who Like to Hide: Armarkat Cave Shape Covered Bed
For cats who like to curl up and feel secure in their bed, the Armarkat Cave Shape Covered Bed is a great choice. This bed features an oblong shape with one open and one enclosed end, and it is lined with a plush pillow covered in luxe velvet fabric.
This covered pet bed is made with a waterproof, anti-skid base which adds to its durability. It is stuffed with 100% poly fill to make it extra comfy and it is machine washable for easy cleaning. This cat cave bed only comes in one size, but it is large enough to fit most cats comfortably and you can choose from three colors, all priced under $40.
Pros
- Enclosed design provides security
- Ultra-soft materials with plenty of padding
- Anti-skid, waterproof base
Cons
- Only available in one size
#6 Best Window Bed: K&H EZ Mount Kitty Sill
Though some cats love to curl up in a nest-style bed, others prefer to be off the ground. For cats who like to lounge on high, especially those who like to look out the window, this EZ Mount Kitty Sill from K&H Pet Products is a great option. It features a sturdy design and is priced under $40.
This window-mounted cat bed features a steel frame sturdy enough to hold up to 100 pounds. It attaches to the window using a set of four suction cups and the surface is covered in a soft faux fleece material that will keep your feline friend warm and comfy. There is a specific set of instructions you need to follow to mount the bed properly, but it only takes a few minutes.
Pros
- Sturdy steel frame holds up to 100 pounds
- Great for cats who like to look out the window
- Surface covered in soft faux fleece material
Cons
- Cats may not show interest in it on their own
- Takes a little while to set up
6 Other Cat Beds We Liked
Before choosing the six cat beds we’ve listed as our top picks, we tested and researched a wide variety of different options. In reading reviews and testing these cat beds ourselves, we came across a few more we’d like to recommend. Check them out below.
#7 MidWest Curious Cat Cube
This MidWest Curious Cat Cube is a great option for multi-cat households because it provides both interior and exterior sleeping space. The spacious interior measures 15.5 inches wide by 16.5 inches tall and the top of the cube is padded to provide an additional sleeping space.
With its square shape, this cat house works well in a corner but can be placed elsewhere if you prefer. The upper bed is made with a faux sheepskin liner and raised bolsters to give your cat an added degree of comfort and support. The interior hideaway is lined with plush fabric and the whole thing folds flat for storage. It’s a great option for older cats who don’t like to climb but it still provides high walls for cats who do.
In addition to providing your cat with a comfortable place to sleep, this cube also offers several hide-and-seek cutouts and hanging toys to provide exercise and entertainment.
Pros
- Affordably priced around $30
- Available in four different colors/patterns
- Spacious interior with cushioned top
Cons
- Cat could get stuck in hide-and-seek holes
- Included hanging toys could be more durable
#8 Armarkat Round or Oval Shape Pet Bed
If you’re looking for a padded cat bed, this model from Armarkat could be the perfect pick. It features a thickly padded base with raised bolsters and comes in a round or oval shape. This cat bed is made with faux suede and luxe velvet materials with a waterproof and skid-free base.
In addition to being a great choice for cats who like a lot of cushion, this cat bed is machine washable. You can simply remove the cushion and place both the bed and the cushion directly into the washing machine for quick and easy cleaning.
Pros
- Thickly padded base with cushioned bolsters
- Available in round or oval shape
- Completely machine washable for easy cleaning
Cons
- Machine washing may alter the shape
- Removing accumulated pet hair can be difficult
#9 Midwest Deluxe Bolster Pet Bed
Available in a wide variety of different sizes, this simple pet bed doubles as a crate mat. It features soft fleece material with a poly-fiber cushioned base and raised bolsters on the side to provide an added degree of security and support for your cat.
In addition to being soft and comfortable, this simple pet bed is machine washable which makes it easy to clean. Simply toss it in the washing machine and lay it flat or dry on the no-heat setting.
Pros
- Available in a wide variety of different sizes
- Cushioned base with raised bolsters for support
- Doubles as a crate mat or carrier liner
Cons
- May not be thick enough for use as a standalone bed
- Sizing can be a little confusing
#10 Frisco Eyelash Cat & Dog Bolster Bed
For cats who love to cuddle, this self-warming pet bed is a slam dunk. This bed is generously stuffed and covered in long faux fur to keep your cat comfy and cozy while he naps. Because it is overstuffed, the bed enables your cat to sink into the warmth, enjoying the added support from the bolstered edges.
The Frisco self-warming bed comes in four sizes and three different colors. Cats who love to curl up will like the smallest size while cats who tend to stretch out when they sleep may appreciate the extra room afforded by the medium size. To clean, simply throw the entire bed in the washing machine and tumble dry on low heat.
Pros
- Overstuffed for comfort with supportive bolsters
- Covered in soft, cozy faux fur material
- Available in four sizes and three color options
- Completely machine washable and dryer-friendly
Cons
- May not standing up to clawing and kneading
- Some units may not be as fully stuffed as others
#11 Best Pet Supplies Fleece Tent Covered Pet Bed
For cats who like a little bit of privacy but don’t like the restriction of a covered bed, this pet tent might be just right. Made from luxury materials including corduroy and linen, this tent features soft polyester-foam padding and faux fur lining for comfort and warmth. It also features an anti-slip bottom.
This pet tent measures 18×18 inches for the large size or 20×20 inches for the extra-large, making it perfect for cats of any size. It comes in a neutral beige color that blends well with most décor and it is machine washable for easy cleaning and maintenance.
Pros
- Provides comfort and security for cats
- Affordably priced around $30
- Machine washable for easy cleaning
Cons
- Arch may not stand up in all models
- Bottom may not be cushioned enough for some cats
#12 Brentwood Home Runyon Orthopedic Pet Bed
Give your cat the comfort he desires and the support he needs with this orthopedic pet bed. Featuring a 2-inch layer of gel memory foam, this bed relieves joint pain and provides cushioning to help your cat feel his best. Plus, it has a 2-inch therapeutic base foam layer to provide long-lasting support.
In addition to being extremely supportive, this cat bed is durable as well. It is made with an upholstery-grade cover that resists punctures and tears as well as premium zippers to keep the cover in place. The inner liner is waterproof to protect against accidents while the outer liner is removable, machine washable, and replaceable for convenience.
Though this pet bed is significantly more expensive than many on our list, it comes with a 3-year warranty and is available in four different sizes. Made with CertiPUR-US Certified foams, this bed naturally resists mold, bacteria, and dust mites as well.
Pros
- Ideal for cats suffering from joint pain
- Several layers of CertiPUR-US Certified foam
- Waterproof inner liner, washable outer liner
Cons
- Very expensive, priced over $150
Here Are Some Additional Features You May Want To Consider When Shopping For A Cat Bed:
Materials
The material from which your cat’s bed is made should be as natural as possible. The last thing you want is for your cat to spend hours in close contact with a material that triggers a negative reaction. Unnatural fibers are more likely to have gone through a chemical cleaning process which has the potential to affect your cat one way or another.
Materials also affect the durability of your cat bed and how easy it is to clean.
When shopping for a cat bed, check for a removable cover. In many cases, these covers are water-resistant and machine-washable which adds a certain degree of convenience.
Even if a cat bed says it’s machine washable, however, you should still follow the instructions carefully to avoid having the bed turn out crumpled or grossly misshapen after washing. Most cat beds do best when left to air dry, though some can be put in the dryer on the lowest heat setting.
Design
Functionality is one of the most important things to consider when shopping for a cat bed. Is it warm enough for the colder winter months? How about summer? Does it keep your cat cool?
Asking questions like these can help you decide what kind of design is best for your cat.
Two of the most popular cat bed designs are the sleeping mat and the nest-style bed (also known as a cuddler). A sleeping mat is a fairly basic design that provides a padded surface for your cat to stretch out on. A nest bed, on the other hand, is often rounded with raised bolsters designed for cats who like to curl up when they sleep.
A sleeping mat may be a better option if your cat likes to stretch out or if overheating is a problem. Nest-style cat beds, on the other hand, help retain body heat for warmth.
Raised
As your cat ages, it may become more difficult for him to get up from lying down – especially from the floor. A raised cat bed may be easier for your aging cat to get in and out of.
Raised cat beds can also provide a higher degree of support than traditional sleeping mats.
If your cat has arthritis or other bone and joint issues, support is very important. Make sure the bed you choose isn’t just overstuffed with padding – if it sinks under your cat’s weight it may be more difficult to get out of than if the base is made from a responsive material like memory foam.
Covered
Some cats choose where to sleep based on where they feel most secure. For some cats, it’s an elevated area where they can see around them on all sides. For others, it’s a covered cat bed.
In addition to providing a sense of security for your cat, a covered cat bed can also help keep your cat warm. Depending on the materials from which it is made, covered cat beds can retain body heat to create a self-warming effect.
Size
When shopping for cat beds it’s important to consider not only the size of the bed itself, but the size of any additional features. For example, think about the size of the opening for a covered cat bed or the size of the bolsters on a supportive nest-style cat bed.
As a general rule, your cat’s bed should be large enough for your cat to lie down and turn around in. To get an idea what size cat bed you need, measure your cat from head to the base of its tail. You may want to add a few inches to that measurement to give your cat some leeway.
Cost
Cat beds can be pretty expensive, so think about your budget before you start shopping. You may also want to ask yourself some questions about how many cat beds you need and where you plan to put them. If you have more than one cat, you may want to provide multiple beds.
The average cat bed ranges from $20-$50 while heated options are around $50- $100. Cat furniture that incorporates sleeping areas tend to be the most expensive.
Consider Your Cat’s Sleeping Habits
In addition to thinking about features like materials, durability, and design, you should think about your cat’s sleeping habits to guide you toward the perfect cat bed.
Think about where your cat tends to sleep. Does he choose an elevated area where he feels untouchable, or does he curl up in the middle of the living room floor? Does your cat prefer to stretch out while sleeping or does he curl up into a tiny ball?
Answering these questions will help you narrow down the options once you start shopping for a cat bed to get to the most appropriate choice for your cat.
Relevant Content
Frequently Asked Questions
Do cats need cat beds?
Not necessarily. Chances are your cat has already found a few comfortable places to sleep, but that doesn’t mean he won’t appreciate having his own bed. Though they may not be necessary, cat beds are a way to spoil your cat if you want to.
Where should I put my cat’s bed?
If your cat already has a favorite sleeping spot, you can try putting the cat bed there. Otherwise, choose an area that is a little bit out of the way where your cat can feel secure. For cats who like sleeping up high, try placing the bed on an end table or another piece of furniture.
How can I get my cat to use a cat bed?
Don’t be worried if your cat doesn’t take to the bed right away – he may just need some time to get used to it. You can try sprinkling a little catnip into the bed as incentive or place one of your cat’s favorite toys in it, so it smells familiar.
Beware of Cat Cave. Customer support is horrible. I’m still trying to get the cat cave I ordered over a year ago.
Thanks for sharing this, Anne. Where did you purchase the Cave?
Directly through Cat Cave. Delivered through UPS but never received. I have never had any issues with packages received through UPS before this. Building security cameras have no record of a delivery. Cat Cave has not been helpful. I had to discontinue pursuing this due to Covid infection, but I am still trying. If it were just something for me, I wouldn’t bother and just consider it a loss. But since it’s for my cat, I will continue with the hassle. It makes me sad when he uses boxes and bags as a “cat cave.”
I really like this post which is about cat beds. I am too much attached with my pets and I was searching some cool stylish beds for my pets but it seems nothing to work. I tried to find out at many places then I got a fabulous Nandog Pet Gear and there I found so many stylish dog beds for the best price. So I must suggest this for all.
Thanks for the suggestion, Ethan! If your cats don’t show much interest in a new cat bed, you can always try tossing a few treats into it from time to time or rewarding your cat for going near the bed to help encourage them to use it.
I wish you reviewed more orthopedic beds. Older cats with arthritis need better construction and support.
Article is great, thanks for sharing
I can’t find the post where you suggested a warming pad that could be used inside a cat bed. I recall it came in a pack of 3 or 4 from Amazon…..
Hey Mo, it sounds like you might be referring to the reflective blankets we mentioned in one of our Whisker Wise emails a few weeks ago. Check them out here