FAQ: Beds & Bedding for cats

A non-slip base stops the bed sliding on tiles or wooden floors when the cat jumps in, and protects against moisture from the floor. A sliding bed can frighten a cat, so it is a useful feature.

A waterproof lining or cover helps with older cats, cats with incontinence, kittens and beds kept on a balcony. It protects the filling from liquids and odours, so the bed lasts longer.

Smooth, tightly woven fabrics such as microfibre or tough upholstery fabric collect less hair than plush or looped fabrics. That is handy for long-haired cats and homes with allergy sufferers.

They can, especially in looped or loosely woven fabrics, which can frighten the cat or injure a claw. Choose dense fabrics without loops and keep the cat's claws well maintained.

Memory foam moulds to the body and reduces pressure on joints, so it suits older or heavier cats especially well. It does young cats no harm, but choose foam with a removable, washable cover, as the foam itself cannot be washed.

True allergy to fabric is rare, but dust mites, detergent residues or dyes can irritate the skin. If the cat scratches, loses fur or develops red skin after getting a new bed, talk to a vet.

A kitten does well with a small, warm bed with sides or a cave where it feels safe. Choose a washable bed, as kittens make more mess, and avoid long tassels or small parts it could chew off.

A large bed can be too cool and roomy for a kitten, so at first put a smaller blanket or cushion inside to create a cosy nest. Once the kitten grows, the extra insert can be removed.

An older cat does well with a warm, soft orthopaedic bed with a low entry that is easy to reach without jumping. Since older cats feel the cold more, a self-warming bed helps, and favourite high spots can be made reachable with steps.

A cat with arthritis does well with a thick, firm orthopaedic mattress with a low edge in a warm, draught-free spot, since warmth eases stiffness. Discuss treatment and pain relief with a vet — the bed is only part of its comfort.

After surgery a cat needs a clean, soft, low bed in a quiet place where it does not have to jump. Change or wash the bedding often to keep the wound clean, and follow all the vet's instructions on restricting movement.

Prepare a roomy, warm, enclosed spot for a pregnant cat, such as a box or cave with easily changed bedding, in a quiet room. It should keep kittens from falling out while letting the mother get in and out easily.

Change bedding as soon as it gets damp or soiled so the kittens stay warm and clean, but try not to disturb the mother too much. Use plain, easily washed fabrics without loops the kittens could get tangled in.

Hairless cats get cold quickly, so enclosed caves, soft blankets and self-warming beds suit them. Their skin produces more oil, so their beds need washing more often than usual.

Long-haired cats often run warm, so more open, breathable beds of smooth fabric that collects less hair suit them. The cover should be removable, because a lot of hair builds up in the bed.

Such a cat does well with a bed that has a waterproof lining and several easily washed covers or absorbent pads to rotate. Incontinence can be a sign of illness, so be sure to talk to a vet.

An overweight cat is more comfortable in a wide, sturdy, low bed that needs no jumping or squeezing through a narrow opening. Hammocks and window loungers must suit its weight, and a vet can advise on weight loss.

A blind cat's bed should always stay in the same place, low down and away from stairs or other hazards. A familiar scent, such as its own blanket, helps it find the bed more easily.

A sick cat most needs a warm, quiet, easily reached spot that is easy to clean, such as a bed with washable pads. If the cat stops using its usual bed or hides in unusual places, tell your vet.

Warmth is vital for very young orphaned kittens, but the heat source must be made for animals, covered with fabric and cover only part of the bed so the kittens can move away from it. Be sure to consult a vet about caring for such kittens.