Best Cat Beds: Top Picks for Every Feline Friend

As cat parents, we know one truth above all: our feline friends love their naps. In fact, cats sleep anywhere from 12 to 16 hours a day. Some even more! That makes choosing the perfect cat bed a top priority for their comfort and well-being. Whether your kitty loves burrowing, stretching, or curling into a tight little cinnamon roll, there’s a bed out there that will make them purr with joy.

As a lifelong cat owner (currently owned by two spoiled rescues, Luna and Mochi), I’ve tested and researched more cat beds than I can count. And let me tell you, not all cat beds are created equal. In this post, we’re diving into everything you need to know to choose the right one, plus reviewing the top cat beds by category. No fluff (pun intended), just real advice and cozy recommendations.

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What to Look for in a Good Cat Bed

Before we explore the top picks, let’s talk about what actually makes a cat bed great. Cats are notoriously picky, so finding the right fit involves balancing their instincts with your preferences for practicality and style.

Material & Comfort

Comfort is everything. Look for soft, plush materials like faux fur, sherpa, or memory foam for extra support. Some cats love the feeling of warmth and deep cushioning especially seniors or anxious kitties.

Check out options like the Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Donut for a cozy, plush choice.

• Best for snugglers: Faux fur, fleece
• Best for summer: Cotton or breathable mesh
• Sensitive skin: Hypoallergenic and non-toxic materials

Size & Shape

While kittens can curl up in just about anything, full-grown cats need space to stretch. Some prefer doughnut-shaped beds for curling up, while others like flat mats or cave-style beds for privacy.

Tip: Measure your cat when they’re fully stretched out and add a few inches to find the ideal bed size.

Washability & Maintenance

Let’s face it…cats shed, drool, and occasionally have accidents. A machine-washable cat bed or one with a removable cover can be a lifesaver. Look for beds labeled as easy-care, and check user reviews to make sure the washing process doesn’t ruin the shape.

Durability

Especially if you have a scratch-happy feline or multiple pets, choose beds with high-quality stitching, durable fabrics, and non-skid bottoms. You don’t want a bed that looks like a toy after two weeks.

Style & Aesthetics

Cat furniture doesn’t have to clash with your decor. Many modern beds are now designed to be both cozy and stylish. Think minimalist colors, Scandinavian felt, or boho-inspired macrame.

Special Features

Want to spoil your kitty even more? Keep an eye out for:

• Self-warming materials
• Heated beds (great for winter or older cats)
• Orthopedic foam for joint support
• Eco-friendly materials for sustainable pet care
• Portable beds for travel or crate use

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Best Cat Beds by Category (Top Picks)

Now for the fun part, our curated list of best cat beds by category. These are top-rated, widely loved by cat parents, and (most importantly) feline-approved.

1. Best Overall Cat Bed

Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Donut

Why We Love It:
This viral favorite earns its top spot for good reason. The Calming Donut bed wraps your cat in a soft, plush faux-fur hug, making it the ultimate nap nest for anxious or cuddly kitties.

• Material: Luxurious faux shag fur
• Sizes: Multiple (from kittens to large cats)
• Machine washable: Yes

Pros:

• Soothes anxious cats
• Deep bolsters for head support
• Machine washable and dryer safe
• Comes in stylish, neutral colors

Cons:

• Might be too plush for warm climates
• Not ideal for cats who prefer firm surfaces

Where to Buy: Check price Here

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2. Best Orthopedic Cat Bed

Best Friends by Sheri Pet Throne High Bolster Orthopedic Relief Bed

Why It’s Great for Seniors:
If you have an older cat or one with arthritis, this orthopedic bed is a game-changer. The supportive memory foam base cushions joints, while the high sides offer security and warmth.

Pros:

• Excellent for joint relief
• High walls for nesting
• Machine washable cover

Cons:

• Pricier than standard beds
• Might be too bulky for smaller spaces

Where to Buy: View Here

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3. Best Budget-Friendly Cat Bed

Best Friends by Sheri Cuddle Cup

Affordable and Adorable:
Don’t want to splurge but still want your cat to nap in style? The Cuddle Cup is a budget-friendly favorite, with soft faux fur and a flexible structure cats love.

Pros:

• Super cozy
• Lightweight and portable
• Great value for the price

Cons:

• Not very large. Better for smaller cats
• Needs reshaping after washing

Where to Buy: Available Here

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4. Best Cat Cave Bed

Meowfia Premium Felt Cat Cave

For Cats Who Love Privacy:
Crafted from 100% Merino wool, this handmade felted cat cave is sleek, eco-friendly, and perfect for cats who like to burrow or hide.

Pros:

• Naturally repels dirt and odor
• Stylish, modern design
• Durable and warm

Cons:

• Not machine washable (spot clean only)
• Some cats may prefer more open beds

Where to Buy: Buy Here

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5. Best Heated Cat Bed

K&H Thermo‑Kitty Heated Bed

Stay Cozy in Winter:
This low-wattage heated bed provides gentle warmth. Safe for indoor use and perfect for colder climates or older cats.

Pros:

• Thermostatically controlled heat
• Energy efficient
• Soft and supportive cushion

Cons:

• Needs an outlet nearby
• Heating element not removable

Where to Buy: Buy Here

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6. Best Cat Bed for Travel or Crates

Furhaven Self-Warming Cat Bed

On-the-Go Comfort:
This flat, packable bed works well in crates, carriers, or back seats. The self-warming layer reflects your cat’s body heat. No electricity needed!

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable
• Affordable
• Warm without plugs

Cons:

• Not thickly padded
• May slip around without anchoring

Where to Buy: Check Here

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7. Best Machine-Washable Cat Bed

West Paw Heyday Bed

Hassle-Free Cleaning:
West Paw makes premium, eco-friendly beds that are fully machine washable. The Heyday bed is soft, durable, and designed for easy care even after years of use.

Pros:

• Washes and dries beautifully
• Soft microsuede finish
• Made in the USA with recycled fill

Cons:

• Premium price
• Limited availability

Where to Buy: Buy Here

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Expert Tips for Getting Your Cat to Use Their New Bed

Bought the perfect bed, but your cat ignores it like it’s yesterday’s tuna? Totally normal. Cats are weirdly selective creatures. Here’s how to win them over:

• Location, location, location: Place the bed where your cat already naps. Near a sunny window, a quiet corner, or even beside your own bed.
• Scent swapping: Rub a towel or shirt with your scent into the bed, or sprinkle a bit of catnip to entice them.
• Introduce gradually: Don’t toss out their old sleeping spot right away. Let the new bed coexist for a while.
• Praise and treat: Positive reinforcement works! Give your cat a treat every time they explore or use the new bed.

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Conclusion

Choosing the right cat bed can truly enhance your furry friend’s comfort and happiness and help you reclaim your favorite chair! From calming doughnuts to eco-conscious caves and orthopedic thrones, there’s a bed for every cat and every home.

Found the perfect cat bed?

Tell us in the comments below! We’d love to hear what your cat thinks. Got a photo of your kitty lounging like royalty? Even better, share it with us!