8 Best Cat Beds for Your Snoozing Feline

Helping your beloved cat get a good night’s sleep is no simple task. Perhaps your fickle feline would rather bed down in a cardboard box than their designated sleeping space. (Or, even more unpredictably, on you!) Or maybe your kitty tosses and turns all night, never seeming to find a comfortable position. 

A quality cat bed could be the perfect solution to your nighttime woes. But, with all the options on the market, how do you ensure you’re getting the very best cat bed for your very favorite feline?

Whether you’re looking for a cat bed that’s rectangular or round, fluffy or flat, modern and minimal or loaded with all the latest bells and whistles, here’s everything you need to know to find the best fit for your tired kitty. Plus, we’ve included a list of our top-ranked cat beds — standout brands and models with rave reviews from cats and cat parents, alike!

Our Best Cat Bed Picks

• Overall Best Cat Bed: Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Donut Cat Bed in Lux Fur
• Best Heated Cat Bed: K&H Pet Products Heated Thermo-Kitty Mat Reversible Cat Bed
• Best Budget-Friendly Cat Bed: Amazon Basics Round Bolster Cat Bed with Flannel Top 
• Best Covered Cat Bed: Snoozer Orthopedic Cozy Cave Pet Bed 
• Best Elevated Cat Bed: Catry Cat Bed with Scratching Post
• Best Cat Couch Bed: Bingopaw Elevated Pet Bed
• Most Unique Cat Bed: Wooden Cat House With 2 Floor Cat Beds
• Most Stylish Cat Bed: Stellar Cat Bed

All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the Vetstreet editorial team and do not reflect a direct endorsement by the author. However, Vetstreet may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Do Cats Need a Cat Bed?

Cats spend a decent amount of their time — both day and night — in dreamland. Studies show that most domestic cats spend a little more than half of each day sleeping,¹ often in short bursts or “cat naps.” And some super-sleepers spend up to 17 out of 24 hours each day snoozing. 

While many cats can and do sleep just about anywhere, providing your cat with a cozy cat bed to call home isn’t just about comfort. Often, cats like to hide or retreat to a place they consider safe if they’re feeling overstimulated, or just want some solitude. So a cat bed in an out-of-the-way place gives your kitty a secure, protected refuge for snoozing or other activities.

Types of Cat Beds

As pet parents know, no two cats are the same. And that’s even more apparent when it comes to napping, sleeping, and lounging preferences. Luckily, there are plenty of different types of cat beds on the market for pet parents to choose from. 

Here are the most common categories of cat beds awaiting you. Let’s just hope you know your cat well enough to uncover their perfect pick:

• Standard Cat Beds: Traditional cat beds look like flat mats made of soft plush material. Many have soft, raised sides (also called bolsters) that offer head and neck support. 
• Covered Cat Beds: These either have a roof or an enclosure to give cats more privacy or a sense of security. Some give cats an arched entryway to walk through, while others have little slits for cats to slip into. There’s a growing subset of this category known as cat caves, which are often smaller and designed to enclose cats in a snug hug.  
• Heated Cat Beds: Some beds come with heating pads that are plugged in or are made of a material that maximizes a cat’s body heat to warm the whole bed.
• Elevated Cat Beds: While some cat beds rest right on the floor, others come with legs or a stand that raises them off the ground. This can be a great feature for homes with stone or hardwood floors, which can may get extra chilly when temperatures drop.   
• Furniture-style Cat Beds: Some cat beds are designed to look like miniature versions of human furniture, such as a chaise lounge, sofa, or even a four-poster bed. They’re a great way to complement your existing decor and a great choice for the truly pampered pussycat! 

How We Ranked Our Top Cat Beds

When searching for the best cat bed options on the market, we scouted out beds that not only looked great, but could also perform to the highest standards…cat mom standards. 

As a long-time cat mom and even longer-time lover of products designed to make life easier, I know how much cats love soft, plush items that they can make biscuits on (and what that does to the stuffing). I know how much fur (and sometimes hairballs) these cat beds will have to contend with. And I know what materials and manufacturers stand the test of time. 

Along with all this first-hand experience, I also scoured countless reviews and product ratings to find the cat beds with glowing testimonials for cat parents and their happy, well-rested kitties. 

8 Best Cat Beds for the Perfect Slumber

Overall Best Cat Bed

Our Pick: Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Donut Cat Bed in Lux Fur

We love this cat bed for its overall style and versatility. Not only can you choose from several different colors and sizes, but it can also work for multiple cats, extra large cats, and even households with dogs (if your cat and dog get along well enough to cuddle up, of course). The luxurious faux fur cover isn’t just for looks. It’s designed to imitate the reassuring feel of a mother’s fur coat and trap body heat, making the bed a great self-warming choice. The round donut shape and comfy bolstered walls help support your cat’s head and neck, while also enveloping your pet like a warm hug. And because the bottom of the bed is dirt- and water-resistant, this stylish cat bed is practical, too! 

Highlights

• Round shape and raised rim offer security and support.
• CoziLOFT fiber filling and faux fur cover create a cozy, self-warming bed that will make your cat feel like they’re snuggled up next to a buddy.
• Great for multi-pet households.
• It’s Amazon’s #1 best-selling cat bed.
• Choose from a wide array of fashionable colors.
• Available in Small (23”x23”), Medium (30”x30”), Large (36”x36”), 2XL (54”x54”)  

Things to Consider

• One of the pricier options on the market at over $100.
• While the larger beds have a removable, machine-washable cover, the Small option does not. So you’ll have to either wash the whole bed by hand or in the washing machine on gentle cycle.  

Best Heated Cat Bed

Our Pick: K&H Pet Products Heated Thermo-Kitty Mat Reversible Cat Bed

If your cat loves to sleep wherever it’s warm — whether that’s curled up in a sunbeam or on top of your laptop — a heated cat bed could be the perfect choice for your heat-seeking kitty. We loved the Thermo-Kitty heated cat bed because, unlike self-warming models that rely on body heat, this model comes with a heating pad designed to keep your cat’s bed warmed and cozy. Simply plug the reversible mat into any standard wall outlet. The dual thermostat warms the pad to about 15 degrees over the ambient room temperature to attract your cat. Then, once your cat cuddles up on the mat, it warms to approximately 102 degrees, which is the natural body temperature for cats. You can also remove the heating element during the warmer months, making this reversible, soft foam mat a great bed choice for any season. 

Highlights

• Soft foam pad with removable heating element designed specifically for pets to ensure their safety.
• 6-watt heating element with dual thermostat control.
• Reversible cover is removable and machine washable.
• Tested & certified by MET Labs and exceeds US electrical safety standards.
• Choose from three color combinations: mocha/tan, gray/tan, sage/tan
• Mat measure 12.5”Lx25”Wx0.5”H 

Things to Consider

• Cord measures 5.5 feet, which may limit where you can use this mat
• Not rated for outdoor use.
• May not be appropriate for kittens, convalescent cats, or any animal that cannot remove themself from the heated pad. Manufacturer suggests checking with your veterinarian first. 

Best Budget-Friendly Cat Bed

Our Pick: Amazon Basics Round Bolster Cat Bed with Flannel Top

Buying a quality cat bed doesn’t have to cost an arm and a paw. If you don’t have a huge budget to work with, this Amazon Basics option provides a safe, cozy spot for your kitty without breaking the bank. Instead of expensive, super-lux materials, this bolster-style cat bed offers a soft, flannel top and sturdy polyester canvas sides. It’s machine-washable, so you don’t have to worry about damaging delicate, hard-to-clean materials. And even if it doesn’t last forever, it’s a quality pick for under $20. So, no buyer’s remorse is required.

Highlights

• Soft-but-durable design features plush flannel top and polyester canvas sides.
• Machine washable with cold water.
• Bed measures 20”Lx20”Wx6”H. Inner sleeping space is 14” in diameter. 

Things to Consider

• Only available in one color, brown.
• Manufacturer recommends air-drying. Do not use clothes drier, even on no-heat or tumble settings.  

Best Covered Cat Bed

Our Pick: Snoozer Orthopedic Cozy Cave Pet Bed 

Not all cats love to sleep out in the open. Some require a little more cover to feel safe and secure. That’s where a covered cat bed, also known as a cave bed for cats, can come in handy. If your cat loves to burrow under blankets or pillows to take a snooze, this cozy covered cave bed is ideal. The round shape and attached, sherpa-lined cover help cats feel ultra snug, while also giving them a good hiding spot when they don’t want to be found. Plus, you can choose from a cozy cedar/poly filling for comfort, or an orthopedic foam insert for support. To top it all off, it’s made well, durable, and easy to clean. The poly-cotton cover is lined with sherpa fabric and features a rugged zipper for easy machine washing and drying.  

Highlights

• Soft filling and sherpa fabric-lined cover make this cat bed perfect for nesting, kneading, and hiding.
• Removable cover is machine-washable and -dryable.
• Standard bed features poly/cotton cover, but you can upgrade to different materials, such as microsuede and weatherproofed nylon material called WAG. 
• Choose cedar/poly filling or optional orthopedic foam insert upgrade.
• Available in a wide variety of colors and patterns.
• Available in Small (25”Lx25”Wx4”H), Large (35”Lx35”Wx4”H), X-Large (45”Lx45”Wx4”H)l

Things to Consider

• Some cats do not like the smell of cedar, so you may want to consider the orthopedic foam model.
• Though Snoozers is known for products designed “for people, by dog people,” this bed is made for both dogs and cats, with plenty of happy cat parent reviews.
• There’s only one opening, so cats who never want to feel trapped might find this bed a little anxiety-inducing.

Best Elevated Cat Bed

Our Pick: Catry Cat Bed with Scratching Post

Why settle for just a cat bed when you can offer your kitty a two-for-one sleeping/playing experience? This bed from Catyr has it all — a cozy, plush cat bed up top, anchored on a sturdy elevated platform supported by a wide, sisal-cover scratching post. Your cat can lounge, snooze, leap and scratch to their heart’s content. This well-made bed offers plenty of options. Plus, the bed is roomy enough to accommodate larger cats, like Maine coon breeds. 

Highlights

• Quality-made option combines a comfy cat bed with a climbing tower and sisal scratching post.
• Tower is constructed from sturdy MDF wood, bed is made from short-pile plush material with poly filling. 
• Structure measures 23”LX16”Wx20”H. Bed measures 22.8”Lx15.75”W and can accommodate cats up to 25 pounds.
• Can remove bed from platform and wash in machine.

Things to Consider

• Requires some assembly.
• While cats do love to climb, this bed is more of an elevated perch than a lofty climbing structure.  

Best Cat Couch Bed

Our Pick: Bingopaw Elevated Pet Bed

Your cat doesn’t have to be a couch potato to appreciate the chic, cozy comfort of this elevated couch cat bed. The contemporary-looking Nordic design is sure to elevate any room, while the soft, plush cushions offer the perfect place for your cat to nap, snooze, and chill in style. No larger than a tiny footstool, this couch bed is perfect for cats who like a slightly elevated lounging area. Wooden legs support the sofa-style bed, which features a curved backrest and sides. The bed is available in a warm Nordic white. And because the bedding cushion is removable and washable, there’s no need to invest in a kitty couch cover. 

Highlights

• Elevated couch bed offers beautiful Nordic style in a cozy cat bed.
• Bed cushion is removable and washable. 
• Available in Small (16.3”Lx16.3”Wx13”H with sleeping area 14.7” in diameter) and Large (24.2”Lx24.2”Wx13”H with sleeping area 22.6” in diameter))
• Also available in a rectangular design option. 

Things to Consider

• Some assembly required.
• Bed cushion has a waterproof lining that’s okay for drooling or small accidents—but not for heavier spills or accidents.
• If stains occur on the back or sides of the couch bed, you’ll have to spot clean. 

Most Unique Cat Bed

Our Pick: Wooden Cat House With 2 Floor Cat Beds

While this was definitely the most unique cat bed (actually, cat beds, since there are two included) we have ever seen, the term unique almost doesn’t do it justice. This is more of a cat castle than a humble sleeping space for your kitty. But we couldn’t resist including it because it is such a showstopper. This handmade wooden abode features two floors, two beds, and multiple platforms for your kitties to explore. And, just like any custom-built home, you can personalize the structure and decor by choosing pillow colors and even adding your cat’s name to the home. No detail has been missed in this one-of-a-kind construction. There are even two points of entry, so cats can easily escape if they feel threatened. 

Highlights

• The ultimate in cat luxury.
• Two-floor structure comes with two cozy cat beds and plenty of play space to climb, hide in, and enjoy. 
• Perfect for multi-cat homes.
• Built from thick plywood, with airy cut-out entrances, windows, multi-platform steps, and jute rope accents.
• Bed pillows are covered in waterproof, machine-washable fabric in your choice of black or white.
• For an additional fee, you can customize your cat’s home by choosing the number of pillows (1-4) and adding your cat’s name to the exterior. 
• Medium model measures 29”Lx35”Wx26”H. Extra Large model measures 37”Lx42”Wx32.28”H.

Things to Consider

• Though this option is pricey, you get a lot of value for your investment. The cost is comparable to other cat beds we reviewed, but you’re essentially getting a cat playground.
• Not designed for cats over 17 pounds. 
• Assembly is required and is not super simple.
• Not intended for outdoor use. 

Most Stylish Cat Bed

Our Pick: Stellar Cat Bed

Free shipping sitewide with code VETSTREET

Though there are plenty of cat bed options on the market to choose from, there are very few you could mistake for a high-end work of art. And that’s exactly what sets the Stellar Cat Bed light years ahead of the rest. The elegant, modern design of this cat bed is, simply put, out of this world. The spherical structure is made of yarn and resin, so it’s both futuristic and pleasingly organic in feel. Inside the sturdy structure, you’ll find a removable custom-fit faux fur cushion to cradle your kitty. Silicone bumpers hold the sphere in place on the powder-coated steel base, so you can position the sphere and its opening to your (and your cat’s) liking. All in all, it’s a stunning style statement that’s also beautifully designed for your cat’s comfort and security. 

Highlights

• Roomy sphere with rigid construction gives your cat a secure refuge that’s both stunning and perfectly styled for snoozing.
• Generous window opening gives your cat an easy entry/exit point and perfect view.
• Because the main structure is a sphere, you can position the opening however you like.
• Cozy bed cushion is covered in faux fur and ultrasuede. 
• Sphere measures 15” in diameter. With stand, the entire structure measures 18” inches in height.

Things to Consider 

• Expensive. Though it may help to think of it as a cat bed and modern art sculpture in one.
• Only one point of entry or exit.
• Cushion is not washable. Shake or lightly vacuum to clean. 

What to Look for In a Cat Bed

Before you start shopping for the perfect cat bed, take a moment to consider how it will be used. This can help you zero in on the functionality that will first your cat best. 

For example, ask yourself:

• How does your cat like to sleep? For example, under blankets? Curled up? 
• Where does your cat currently take their naps? 
• Does your cat like to sleep in bed with you?  
• Or is it more likely for your cat to sleep somewhere hidden, like under the couch? 

Depending on your answers, you should be able to narrow down the type of bed, based on your cat’s preferences. If your cat loves to sprawl out, consider a plush standard cat bed that lays flat on the ground. If your cat loves a perch, an elevated cat bed might be the best choice. If your cat likes to bury themselves under the sheets or hide when they nap, a cat cave or covered cat bed is the way to go. 

Once you narrow down the type of cat bed you’re looking for, then consider these other factors:

• Location: Where will the cat bed go? If you opt for a heated cat bed, consider the length of the cord and how that might impact your options. Always measure your space to make sure the beds you’re considering will fit where you want them to go. 

• Materials: The ideal cat bed material should be durable enough to stand up to repeated scratching and kneading, but also soft enough to feel comfortable to your cat. That can be a hard balance to strike, as super-durable fabrics often are not super cozy. Polyester and microfiber, for starters, are good options that offer the best of both worlds. Stay away from loosely woven materials, which can easily unravel with enough scratching. 
• Size: Luckily, cats don’t get as big as many dogs, so a small or medium-sized cat bed should suffice. Most cats will fit well into a cat bed that measures 20 inches by 20 inches at most. If you have multiple cats who love to sleep together, consider beds that measure over 24 inches in width. And when looking at cat bed sizes, be sure to consider the size of the sleeping area, which may be different than the overall size of the bed — especially if the bed features stuffed bolsters. 

Cleaning: When you think of what cat beds may have to withstand — everything from pee and poop to cat puke, hairballs, and relentless shedding — choosing an easy-to-clean option is key. Look for cat beds that come with removable covers you can easily throw right into the washing machine. A waterproof lining is a plus, to keep foul substances from soaking into the cushion beneath. Some cat beds without removable covers say they can be thrown in the washing machine whole. However, keep in mind that doing so can impact the integrity of its shape, especially if the bed features poly filling instead of a solid cushion.