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A comfortable place to sleep and lounge is a must-have for everyone, and that includes your cats. A cat bed gives them a place to feel safe and warm, get a good night’s rest, and be alone when they desire. Cats sleep between 15 and 20 hours a day, so having the right place to curl up makes a big difference in kitty quality of life.
But finding the bed of your cat’s dreams can be challenging. There are so many choices: Flat pillows or small boxes? Large towers or a perch? There are even options with activities for in-between naps. What type of bed is best for your particular cat—and more importantly, which type of bed will they actually use?
To find out, we talked to Dr. Iram Sharma, a veterinarian and writer at PupVine, who offers expert advice on picking the right cat bed, finding the right size, and placing it in the optimal spot for kitty coziness.
Read on for our top picks for every kind of cat and cat napper, from snugglers to sprawlers and burrowers to loafers.
- Best Orthopedic Cat Bed: PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed (Verified Review)
- Best Cave Cat Bed: Meowfia Premium Felt Cave Bed (Verified Review)
- Best Self-Warming Cat Bed: Aspen Pet Self-Warming Bolster Bed
- Best Plug-In Heated Bed: K&H Thermo-Kitty Fashion Splash Cat Bed (Verified Review)
- Best Cooling Cat Bed: ArfPets Self-Cooling Gel Mat (Verified Review)
- Best Calming Cat Bed: Best Friends By Sheri, The Original Calming Donut Cuddler (Verified Review)
- Best Cat Tunnel Bed: Kitty City Circular Tunnel Bed
- Best Cat Scratcher Bed: Frisco Cat Scratcher & Lounge Oblique
- Best Cat Bed for Window: Penthouse Cat Window Perch
- Best Elevated Cat Bed: K&H Comfy Pet Cot
- Best Outdoor Bed: Frisco Indoor/Outdoor Deep Dish Cuddler
- Best Wicker Bed: PawHut Rattan Wicker Elevated Condo
- Best Flat Bed: Furhaven NAP Ultra Plush Orthopedic Bed
- Best Cat Bed for Large Cats: Frisco Sherpa Orthopedic Bolster Bed
- Best Bed for Kittens or Small Cats: Best Friends By Sheri, Meow Hut
- Best Budget Cat Bed: Love’s Cabin Round Donut Bed
- Best Luxury Cat Bed: Tuft + Paw Stellar Cat Bed
- Cutest Cat Bed: Petgrow Banana Bed
Best Orthopedic Cat Bed: PetFusion Ultimate Lounge Memory Foam Bolster Bed (Verified Review)
Our product testers have found a quality orthopedic bed can make a real difference in a cat’s comfort. These beds provide joint support and pressure relief, promoting a more restful night’s sleep. They tend to be pricier, but for many pet parents, the health benefits justify the cost. When it comes to materials, memory foam offers some of the best support by distributing your pet’s weight evenly. Senior cats, arthritic cats, obese cats, or injured cats can all benefit from the additional padding and comfort of an orthopedic bed.
Regarded as the premier orthopedic pet bed, the PetFusion bed will hold its shape without sagging. The small size offers two inches of memory foam for medium firmness (the large and extra-large have four inches of foam). Polyfill bolsters support for your cat’s neck and gives them a spot to snuggle up against. And the memory foam liner is 100% waterproof, which helps protect your investment from spills and accidents.
Key Features:
- Materials: cotton cover, memory foam interior
- Washability: cover is removable and machine-washable
- Available sizes: small, large, x-large, jumbo
- Extremely durable
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Best Cave Cat Bed: Meowfia Premium Felt Cave Bed (Verified Review)
For cats who value their privacy, a cozy cave bed can offer a secure place to “get away from it all.” The den-like design of these beds is especially comforting to kittens, shy cats, and those who share their home with lots of noisy family members.
The Meowfia Cave Bed is made from 100% merino wool and is one of the most coveted cat caves on the market. Place it on the floor, on the sofa, or anywhere your cat likes to hang out. You can even flatten it out to let your cat use it as a sleeping pad. We’ve tried it ourselves and been impressed with its handsome design and cat appeal.
Key Features:
- Materials: soft, felted wool
- Washability: hand-wash with soap and water
- Available sizes: medium, large
- Streamlined, modern look
- Beautiful colors and patterns
- Probably not supportive enough for arthritic cats
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Best Self-Warming Cat Bed: Aspen Pet Self-Warming Bolster Bed
Cats are hard-wired to seek warm spots for resting. So if you live in a colder climate, a self-heating bed might make sense. These warm cat beds retain and reflect your pet’s body heat—without the need for electricity. A self-heating bed offers a convenient solution for the easily chilled senior cat or kitten and may contribute to improved feline sleep.
Generally, a self-heating bed will be cheaper than an electric model. They’re a good choice if you’re concerned about a drafty area of your house but don’t want electrical cords around. The affordable self-warming Aspen bed includes a layer of special material inside that reflects your cat’s natural heat. And high, bolster-style walls reflect that heat inward to make things even cozier.
Key Features:
- Materials: sherpa and corduroy cover, fiberfill interior
- Washability: machine-washable
- Available sizes: 19-inch, 24-inch, 30-inch
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Only available in spice/cream color combo
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Best Plug-In Heated Bed: K&H Thermo-Kitty Fashion Splash Cat Bed (Verified Review)
If you have a spare outlet, a heated plug-in bed can keep your indoor cat nice and toasty. Some electric beds also feature hooded canopies and/or bolsters to enhance their cozy appeal. Hairless cats, like the Sphynx, senior kitties, and cats with chronic pain will benefit most from an electric heated bed.
K&H Pet Products has developed some of the top heated cat beds on the market. Our testers loved the Fashion Splash Thermo-Kitty for its soft fabric and effective heating element. A perimeter of poly-filled bolsters encircles snoozers in warmth, and an orthopedic foam base adds to the comfort.
Key Features:
- Materials: faux fur exterior, orthopedic foam interior, 5.5-foot cord
- Washability: machine-washable (just remove the internal bed warmer first!)
- Energy efficient heater (runs on four watts)
- Can easily fit two cats (or a very large cat)
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Best Cooling Cat Bed: ArfPets Self-Cooling Gel Mat (Verified Review)
Gel mats are a popular type of cooling bed that absorb and dissipate your cat’s body heat—no water, electricity, or refrigeration required. The gel is safe and non-toxic (although it can cause a sour stomach if a curious kitty eats it). Cooling mats are ideal for cats who tend to overheat, including brachycephalic breeds, overweight cats, and cats with long, thick fur. They’re also a handy accessory for cat parents who live in hotter regions.
The ArfPets Self-Cooling Gel Mat is a low-maintenance gel mat that gets high marks for convenience. All it takes is your pet’s weight to activate the mat’s cooling effect. We tested it on two Rover kitties, who appreciated the mat’s comfy bolsters and its refreshing (but not frigid) temperature. The bed stays cold for up to three hours, after which 15 minutes of non-use will recharge it.
Key Features:
- Materials: nylon, gel foam
- Washability: wipes clean with soap and water
- Available sizes: small/medium, large/x-large
- Portable
- Stays cold for up to three hours
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Best Calming Cat Bed: The Original Calming Donut Cuddler (Verified Review)
Soft, plush, and supportive, calming beds are designed to alleviate stress and promote feelings of safety. They’re often circular with bolstered sides, enclosing your cat in a protected nook. Cozy fabrics like faux-fur help recreate the security of sleeping alongside mother cat and a clowder of siblings.
We’ve tested the Original Calming Donut on just about everybody, from a few Rover pups who gave it rave reviews to Zorian the kitten (above), who loves it so much he’s stolen it from his dog sibling. The donut shape lends itself to burrowing and is perfect for cats who like to curl up in a ball. The shag fur and a layer of insulation radiate warmth for the most relaxing retreat.
Key Features:
- Materials: faux fur exterior, plush fiberfill interior
- Washability: machine-washable and dryer-safe
- Available sizes: x-small, small, medium, large, x-large
- The donut shape and nine-inch bolsters create a safe haven
- Multiple colors available
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Best Cat Tunnel Bed: Kitty City Circular Tunnel Bed
Because sleep leaves them vulnerable to would-be predators (a.k.a. menacing vacuum cleaners), it’s not uncommon for cats to seek shelter during nap time. Tunnel beds also make a great playground when your kitty needs to channel some energy.
With the Kitty City Tunnel, your cat has their choice of a covered hideaway or a plush bed in the tunnel’s center. The tunnel has a diameter of 12.5 inches, so it’s plenty roomy. There’s some assembly involved, but it’s minimal; you’ll have to zipper two half moons together.
Key Features:
- Materials: polyester
- Washability: plush bed is removable and machine-washable
- Versatile design gives cats a place to both sleep and play
- Two large entry windows
- Collapses for easy storage and transportation
- Dangling catnip toy included
- Takes up more space than the average bed
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Best Cat Scratcher Bed: Frisco Cat Scratcher & Lounge Oblique
Scratching is a natural (and healthy!) cat behavior, but we’d still like to spare our furniture from kitty claws if we can. To that end, cat scratchers are a handy feline accessory—add a place for cats to lounge, and you can feed two birds with one scone.
The Frisco Scratcher Lounge gives your kitty a place to stretch, snooze, and keep their nails healthy. The oblique structure offers an elevated perch for chilling—or cats can lay into the middle section too. Constructed with recycled materials, this cat scratcher bed will appeal most to cats who enjoy digging their paws into cardboard. It may not work for cats who prefer a softer touch, but for cats who stretch out on firm surfaces, we think it’s likely to be a hit.
Plus, the clever cat-and-scratcher combo saves you from having to purchase both items separately (saving on floor space as well).
Key Features:
- Materials: durable, corrugated cardboard
- Washability: not washable
- Reversible surface (flip over when one side is scratched up)
- Sleek design
Best Cat Bed for Window: Penthouse Cat Window Perch
Most cats love watching the world go by through a window. But not every home has wide enough windowsills for perching or the space for a cat tree. Window perch beds offer a charming solution. Designs vary: some are flat, others are shaped like pods, and some are more complex with covered condos and stacked levels. But all window perches provide the vertical space your cat loves, while keeping them entertained with free “kitty TV.”
You can mount this airy, hanging cat bed Penthouse Perch on a window using the six industrial-strength suction cups. The front entrance ledge and roof deck make this abode extra roomy for your kitty to climb in and around. The plush microfleece pad inside is removable and washable.
Key Features:
- Materials: nylon, plastic, faux fur
- Washability: soft pad is machine-washable, exterior can be spot-cleaned
- Offers visual enrichment for a happier pet
- Spacious perch (23 X 19 X 9.5 inches) can accommodate two cats
- Recommended weight limit: 50 pounds
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Best Elevated Cat Bed: K&H Comfy Pet Cot
Cats are all about that vertical space—which is why you often find them dozing on the backs of couches or on top of tables. A bed that’s raised off the ground can make cats feel safe and secure. Plus, elevated beds keep pets off chilly floors.
Trusted pet brand K&H carries a variety of cot-like elevated beds. We like their “Comfy Pet Cot” for cats in particular because it’s extra cozy with a plush, cushioned center. You can use this bed indoors or outdoors, so it makes a good choice for your porch or catio.
Key Features:
- Materials: water-resistant denier fabric, fleece cover
- Washability: cover is machine-washable (air- or line-dry)
- Non-skid rubber feet
- Tool-free assembly required
- Only one size (but just right for cats and small dogs)
Best Outdoor Bed: Frisco Indoor/Outdoor Deep Dish Cuddler
Outdoor cats will appreciate a designated space to rest in the yard or catio. But not all pet beds can endure the elements. You need a bed that’s durable, waterproof (or at least water-resistant), and preferably easy to clean.
With this round, deep-dish Frisco bed, you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for practicality. The high bolsters surround your cat in cozy comfort. And the polyester fabric features a water- and mildew-resistant coating. The bed is easy to move around, from indoors to outdoors. And when it needs freshening up, you can toss the whole thing in the washing machine.
Key Features:
- Materials: water-resistant polyester
- Washability: entire bed is machine-washable
- Available sizes: small, medium, large
- Puffy, plush, and cozy
- Water- and mildew-resistant
- Budget-friendly
Best Wicker Bed: PawHut Rattan Wicker Elevated Condo
Most shoppers will be drawn to a wicker pet bed for aesthetic reasons: these beds look right at home among modern or traditional decor. But wicker is also well-liked for its durability. It holds up fairly well to scratching, and it’s easy to keep clean.
This elegant PawHut condo combines the benefits of elevated beds and cave beds—with the strength and style of wicker. The height will appeal to cats who like to perch, and it allows for better air circulation. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but if you’re leaning toward wicker, this one is worth it.
Key Features:
- Materials: hand-woven, durable rattan
- Washability: cushion is removable and machine-washable
- Attractive design
- Not for super large cats
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Best Flat Bed: Furhaven NAP Ultra Plush Orthopedic Bed
Is your cat a sprawler? A flat bed without bolsters lets them stretch their limbs freely. These beds are also a good choice for senior or mobility-impaired kitties because they’re easier to get onto than an elevated bed or one with high sides. (It’s one reason dog beds are a popular choice for senior cats.)
Topped with fluffy faux fur, the Furhaven NAP bed is warm and inviting. The orthopedic egg crate foam and low step-on profile make it a good match for older cats, cats with achey joints, or those recovering from surgery or an injury. The foam also helps pets regulate their temperature, which senior cats will appreciate. Plus, the cover is removable, so you can wash it in case of accidents.
Key Features:
- Materials: faux fur cover, orthopedic egg crate foam
- Washability: cover is machine-washable, foam can be hand-washed
- Available sizes: small, medium, large, jumbo, jumbo plus
- Comfy, orthopedic foam
- Affordable
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Best Cat Bed for Large Cats: Frisco Sherpa Orthopedic Bolster Bed
One of the most important considerations when choosing a cat bed is size. Larger cats, naturally, need a larger bed—preferably one that’s extra supportive on their joints and bones.
This Frisco bed is available in sizes medium, large, and x-large; filled with high-loft polyester; and covered in durable, machine-washable polyester. The orthopedic memory foam supports your big cat’s joints and bones, and the comfy bolsters provide a nice neck rest.
Key Features:
- Materials: soft cloud sherpa, memory foam
- Washability: machine-washable
- Available sizes: medium, large, x-large
- Spacious and durable
- Double-sided cushion
- Fluffy bolsters make a nice headrest
Best Bed for Kittens or Small Cats: Best Friends By Sheri, Meow Hut
Kittens need a bed that is secure, warm, and oh-so-cozy. Cave-style beds are a favorite, as they offer a safe place for kittens to observe the world. Kittens may also enjoy plush cushions and blankets that recreate the comforting warmth of mother cat.
Aside from being adorable, the Meow Hut from Best Friends By Sheri has major kitten—and small cat—appeal. The enclosed design gives shy kittens a place to retreat and nap in peace. The oxford fabric bottom is water- and dirt-resistant, which is a nice feature if your mini furball is still learning to use the litter box. (The whole thing is machine-washable, if there is an accident.)
Plus, the affordable price means less heartbreak if kitty decides it makes a better scratching post than a bed.
Key Features:
- Materials: soft, faux fur
- Washability: machine-washable
- Available sizes: standard and jumbo
- Best for pets under 15 pounds
Best Budget Cat Bed: Love’s Cabin Round Donut Bed
It’s not hard to spend a small fortune on a pet bed. But you don’t always have to spend big for a quality bed that your cat enjoys. While orthopedic beds might be a good investment for arthritic or senior cats, not every kitty needs such luxurious sleeping quarters—many sleep soundly and snuggly in a cheap cat bed.
Whatever your budget, you still want a bed that’s comfy and that your cat will enjoy using. Soft yet supportive, this donut bed by Love’s Cabin fits the bill. The round shape and raised sides offer the nest-like design that many cats love. Reviewers mention even their picky cats were fans. Bonus: You can throw the entire thing in the washer and dryer.
Key Features:
- Materials: suede fabric
- Washability: whole bed is machine-washable
- Non-skid bottom
- Available in 10 colors
Best Luxury Cat Bed: Tuft + Paw Stellar Cat Bed
Design-conscious pet parents may have their eye on a bed that doesn’t scream “tacky cat furniture.” Fortunately, fashionable cat beds aren’t as rare as you might think. Luxury cat furniture company Tuft + Paw offers a line of thoughtfully designed cat beds. They’re expensive, but the company justifies its prices with superior materials and the most functional designs.
If the price tag fits your budget, we think the Stellar would make a striking addition to any home. The spherical design envelopes your cat, and there’s a soft cushion inside for extra comfort. It’s tricky to clean (you can’t get it wet), but this bed is sturdy and beautiful.
Key Features:
- Materials: sphere is made of yarn and resin, base is powder-coated steel
- Washability: dab sphere with dry cloth
- Sleek, minimalist design
- Breathable material
Cutest Cat Bed: Petgrow Banana Bed
For the fun-loving cat parent, a whimsical bed may be more your style. You can find novelty cat beds shaped like fruit tarts, llamas, or Baby Yoda—whatever you and kitty are into.
We think it doesn’t get any sweeter than a cat in a banana. This cute cat bed from Petgrow is great for cats who like to curl up in a nest.
Key Features:
- Materials: soft plush and sponge
- Washability: hand wash
- Available sizes: medium, large, x-large
- Semi-open design with lid
- Cozy and comfy
How To Choose the Right Cat Bed
To find a cat bed that’s a good fit for your kitty, start by taking a look at the places where your cat likes to sleep—and the positions they like to sleep in.
“Examine the spots around your home that your pet cat likes to sleep in the most,” suggests PupVine‘s Dr. Sharma. “Perhaps your cat chooses your woolen blanket or likes to nap under the covers. A full-surround bed, such as a cushioned tunnel, may be the best option.”
If they like to stretch out on your sofa or bed, a plush sleeping pad might work better. Some cats will seek out ways to have their heads and necks cushioned—they’d do best with a bolstered bed. For shy kittens, or cats who just like to cozy up in privacy, Sharma recommends covered or enclosed beds.
Keep in mind that your cat’s taste in sleeping arrangements may change as they age. Also, if your cat is Siamese or Birman, you may need to pass on a pretty wool bed; those breeds have a tendency to chew on, and even eat, wool.
There are some practical considerations as well. A good cat bed should be easy to clean so if there’s a hairball incident or a flea infestation, you can toss the bed into the washer and dryer. And it doesn’t have to be frumpy or boring—as you can see from our list, there are some beautiful contemporary beds out there.
Tip: If you have multiple cats, check out some of the stacked cat beds and cat trees where you can have a cat sleeping on each level.
How to size your cat’s bed
Whatever style cat bed you choose, be sure to get one that’s large enough. Pet parents might love the neat and tidy look of a little cat bed, but your cat may find it too cramped, says Dr. Sharma.
“Even though our cats tend to roll in a ball and make it look like they could crawl into anything, it’s important to buy them a bed that is comfortable, and where they have plenty of room to stretch,” she explains. On the flip side, you don’t want a bed that’s too big, or it might not feel cozy enough.
To get it right, Dr. Sharma recommends measuring the length of your cat, from head to tail, and then adding a few inches. And don’t forget to consider the space and furniture you’re working with.
Where is the best place to put a cat bed?
The best place to put a cat bed is, you guessed it, wherever your cat loves to sleep. “If your cat has already picked out their favorite spot to nap in, when you buy them a bed, put it there,” Dr. Sharma advises.
Consider your cat’s preferences, as well. Many cats like to nap in high places, so try placing it on top of furniture or a windowsill. They also like their privacy, so avoid high-traffic areas where they’ll be disturbed.
Furthermore, cats love to sunbathe, so placing their bed in a warm, sunny spot could be the way to go. Experimentation is often part of the process: you may have to try a few locations before you find the one that’s “just right.”
How We Chose
The cat beds featured here were selected based on a combination of our own hands-on testing, a comprehensive look at customer reviews across a variety of retail platforms, and interviews with veterinary experts. We prioritized comfort and durability, favoring beds with quality materials and sound construction. In addition, we considered each bed’s design, keeping in mind the range of feline preferences and sleeping habits.
We’re always guided by the experience of living and playing alongside our own much-loved and strongly opinionated cats, who are never stingy with their feedback.