Indoor cats sleep up to 16 hours a day. That means your cat spends more of their life asleep than you spend at work, watching TV, and eating combined. What they sleep on matters far more than most cat owners realize.
The right bed reduces stress, supports joint health in older cats, satisfies natural instincts, and gives your cat a defined space that's truly their own. This guide will help you find the best option for your cat's size, sleep style, and the layout of your home.
Step 1: Understand Your Cat's Sleep Style
Before buying anything, watch how your cat sleeps:
- The Curler — Coils tightly into a ball, often with tail over nose. Loves enclosed, nest-style beds with raised edges to tuck against.
- The Sprawler — Stretches out in all directions. Needs a flat, open, wide mat or cushion.
- The Hider — Disappears under furniture or inside tight spaces. Will love a covered cat cave, tent, or enclosed hideaway.
- The Watcher — Sleeps somewhere with a good view (top of a bookshelf, windowsill). Benefits from a perch-style or elevated bed.
Step 2: Consider Your Cat's Age and Health
Kittens
Young cats are easily excited and need washable, durable beds. An enclosed cave-style bed gives kittens a secure, comforting space when they're adjusting to a new home. Keep it low to the ground — kittens are clumsy about heights until around 4–5 months old.
Adult Cats (1–10 Years)
Most adult cats do well with a variety of bed types. If your cat claims high spots, consider a window perch or top-of-wardrobe cushion. If they prefer the floor, a self-warming plush nest is often a favorite.
Senior Cats (10+ Years)
Older cats benefit from lower beds with easy access, soft materials that cushion joints, and warmth. Memory foam or self-warming beds make a real difference for cats with arthritis. Make sure the entry point is low enough that a stiff cat can step in without jumping.
Step 3: Choose the Right Bed Type
Cave or Enclosed Beds — Best for Hiders and Anxious Cats
The most popular choice for indoor cats. An enclosed cat cave or tent provides a sense of security and privacy that triggers cats' natural denning instinct. Our Enclosed Cat Tent & House Bed is a soft, portable option that folds flat for storage. Multiple colors available.
Plush Sofa or Nest Beds — Best for Curlers
A raised-edge sofa-style bed lets your cat tuck their chin and paws over the side while feeling enclosed. Our Warm Plush Winter Pet Sofa Bed is generously padded, self-warming, and available in sizes from Small to 5XL to fit any breed.
Flat Mats or Cooling Pads — Best for Sprawlers and Warm-Weather Cats
Some cats run hot and prefer a cool, flat surface. Our Cooling Ice Silk Pet Mat stays cool on contact without electricity. Ideal for summer, or for cats who always migrate off their bed to sleep on the hardwood floor instead.
Orthopedic Beds — Best for Senior Cats with Joint Issues
If your cat is 10+ or showing signs of stiffness, an orthopedic memory foam bed is worth the investment. Look for raised edges (easier to rest joints), a waterproof liner (senior cats can have accidents), and a removable, washable cover.
What to Look for in a Cat Bed
- Machine-washable cover — Non-negotiable. Cat beds collect hair, dander, and odors quickly.
- Non-slip base — Especially on hardwood floors. A sliding bed is annoying and unsafe for older cats.
- Right size — Your cat should be able to fully stretch out or curl comfortably. Measure nose-to-tail and add 6–8 inches.
- Neutral or appealing scent — New beds can smell "off" to cats. Air them out for a day before introducing, or rub a worn item of your clothing on it.
Getting Your Cat to Use Their New Bed
Cats are creatures of habit and may ignore a new bed entirely at first. A few tricks:
- Place the bed in a spot your cat already favors (their current nap spot on the couch, near a sunny window)
- Put a worn t-shirt or their existing blanket inside to make it smell familiar
- Sprinkle dried catnip on or near the bed
- Don't force it — let them discover it on their own terms. Most cats come around within a week.
Our Top Cat Bed Picks at PlushTail
- Enclosed Cat Tent & House Bed — Best for anxious cats, hiders, and kittens. Soft, portable, multiple colors.
- Warm Plush Winter Sofa Bed — Best for curlers and cold-weather cats. Self-warming, raised sides, washable cover.
- Cooling Ice Silk Pet Mat — Best for summer or heat-sensitive cats. No electricity, stays cool on contact.
Browse the full Beds & Comfort collection to find the right match for your cat. All orders ship free within the US on orders over $49.
Also worth reading: our guide to the best cat toys and the complete cat grooming guide.
