Catnap Approved: How to Choose the Best Cat Bed for Your Pet

You know your cat loves to sleep—but do you know what type of cat bed they’d truly prefer for their catnaps? There are many options to consider: hanging window beds perfect for bird-watching, cozy covered caves for shy felines who crave privacy, and heated or self-warming beds that soothe achy joints and satisfy a cat’s natural love of warmth.

A relaxed cat curled up in a plush, covered cave-style bed

Felines can be delightfully particular—and the best cat bed for one cat may not suit another at all. To find the purr-fect match, consider your cat’s individual personality, age, size, and habits. It’s also wise to offer variety: “Anyone who’s had a cat knows—one week they want to sleep on your bed and then the next week they’re sleeping on the box in the living room,” says Jennifer Van de Kieft, a certified advanced feline training and behavior professional in Brooklyn, New York. “It’s like they’re always changing spots.”

Ready to find the cat bed of your kitty’s dreams? Start by asking yourself these key questions—before you even open your browser.

What to Consider Before Buying a Cat Bed

You don’t want to spend money on luxury beds your cat will ignore. Keep these factors in mind as you shop:

  • What does your cat already love to snooze on? Cats have strong, individual preferences—they adore soft, plush textures, but also gravitate toward cardboard boxes, paper bags, and crinkly packing paper. Observe where your cat naturally naps, then try to mirror that comfort in at least one of your chosen beds. Variety is key!
  • How big is your cat? The ideal bed is just a few inches longer than your cat when stretched out. Cats feel safest in snug spaces—but still need enough room to shift positions and curl up comfortably. Measure your cat from nose to tail base, then choose accordingly.
  • How firm is the bed? Most cats dislike sinking deeply into overly soft bedding—but they *do* love to knead, which helps them relax. Look for a bed that’s supportive yet offers gentle give. Since firmness is hard to judge online, read customer reviews carefully.
  • How thick is the bed? One to three inches is typically ideal. Some cats prefer plush surfaces—as long as the base remains supportive. Bonus points if the bed includes an extra pillow or bolstered edge for head support.
  • How cozy is the bed? Cats seek warmth instinctively. Self-warming beds, heated options with built-in thermostats, or Sherpa-lined designs all deliver comforting heat—making them especially appealing for older or arthritic cats.
A senior cat resting peacefully on a low-profile orthopedic cat bed with bolsters

Now that you understand both general feline preferences and your own cat’s unique quirks, let’s explore the top bed styles—and how to choose the right one.

Heated Cat Beds

These beds use low-wattage electricity and internal thermostats to gently warm your cat—never overheating. Some models, like the FurPetVo Heated Thermo-Mod Dream Pod, even include soothing heartbeat sounds and vibrations, helping ease stress in new or anxious cats.

Perfect for: All cats—but ensure kittens and seniors can easily step off if needed.

Self-Warming Beds

Made with special reflective materials, self-warming beds trap and retain your cat’s own body heat—no electricity required. They’re energy-efficient, safe, and especially helpful in cooler homes. The FurPetVo Round Self-Warming Cat Bed is a popular choice, featuring machine-washable fabric for easy care.

Perfect for: All cats—especially seniors whose stiff joints benefit from consistent, gentle warmth.

A curious kitten peeking out from a felt-covered cat cave bed with removable hood

Cat Cave Beds

Enclosed cave-style beds offer security and privacy—ideal for timid or easily startled cats. The FurPetVo Felt Removable Hood Cave Cat Bed doubles as two beds in one: the cozy hood provides seclusion, while detaching it opens up space for cats who want flexibility. Its plush, washable cushion adds everyday practicality.

Perfect for: Shy cats, rescue pets adjusting to a new home, or any feline who prefers a den-like nap spot.

Cat Window Beds

“Cats love to see what’s going on outside,” says Van de Kieft—and window beds satisfy that instinct perfectly. Securely mounted with industrial-strength suction cups, models like the FurPetVo EZ Mount Thermo-Kitty Window Cat Bed attach safely to sunlit windows and support up to 50 pounds.

Perfect for: Active adult cats who enjoy elevated vantage points—and watching birds, squirrels, or passing clouds.

Elevated Cat Beds

Cats naturally seek high ground for safety and observation—but not all cats can scale tall cat trees or shelves. Elevated beds strike the ideal balance: raised just enough to feel secure, yet accessible for seniors, kittens, or less agile cats. The FurPetVo Modern Elevated Tunnel Cat Bed features a soft eyelash-yarn cushion and a sleek, minimalist design that blends seamlessly into any room.

Perfect for: All cats—especially those who benefit from low-height elevation, including older pets and young kittens.

A cat lounging on an elevated wrought-iron cat bed with a long faux-fur cushion near a sunny window

Orthopedic Cat Beds

Designed with high-density foam bases and supportive bolsters, orthopedic beds relieve pressure on aging or injured joints—and maintain their shape over time. The FurPetVo Plush Orthopedic Front Bolster Cat & Dog Bed combines therapeutic support with a luxuriously soft Sherpa cover and a removable, machine-washable cover for effortless cleaning.

Perfect for: All cats—but especially seniors, post-surgery recoveries, or pets with chronic joint discomfort.