FAQ: Beds & Bedding for cats

A cat bed is best placed in a quiet, warm, draught-free spot where the cat already likes to rest — often by a window, on the sofa or off the floor. Do not put it in a walkway or next to noisy appliances.

Most cats prefer higher spots, where they feel safer and warmer, since warm air rises. For older cats or those with mobility problems, the bed should be low or reachable by steps.

Next to a radiator the cat is warm and cosy, but the bed should not touch a very hot surface and the cat must be able to move away if it gets too hot. Synthetic materials can overheat or deform against a hot radiator.

Cats dislike resting next to their toilet, so place the bed away from the litter box. Some distance from food and water bowls also helps keep food scraps and water out of the bed.

A draught chills a cat, especially an older, sick or hairless one, and it may stop using the bed. Check the bed is not by a door, a leaky window or a vent, and move it if needed.

Cats love lying in the sun, so a bed by a sunny window often becomes a favourite. In summer make sure the cat does not overheat, and that light-coloured, white or hairless cats do not spend too long with skin in direct sun.

One good bed is enough for a single cat, but many cats like having several resting spots in different rooms, high and low, warm and cooler. A second bed or blanket elsewhere lets the cat choose by mood.

Yes, many cats like to sleep near their owners, so a bed in the bedroom often gets used more. If the cat is noisy at night or wakes you, the bed can be moved, but do it gradually.

Better not: noise, vibration and sudden sounds disturb a cat's rest, and some appliances get hot. Cats also sometimes climb into washer or dryer drums, so always keep the doors shut and check inside before switching on.

Put the bed where the cat already likes to sleep, add a blanket or garment carrying its scent or yours, and give it time. If the cat still avoids it, the shape may not suit it: try an open bed instead of a cave, or the other way round.

Put the bed in a favourite spot, place a treat or toy inside and praise the cat when it explores. Do not force the cat into the bed — it needs to decide for itself that it is a safe place.

A little catnip or silvervine in the bed can spark interest and encourage exploring. Some cats get very playful after catnip, so it does not always suit a calm resting spot, and some cats do not react to it at all.

A box surrounds the cat on all sides and usually smells neutral, while a new bed may smell of the factory. Air the bed out, put the cat's blanket in it, and leave the box nearby until the cat gets used to it.

The cat may be too warm, or find the bed too soft or too small, or dislike its smell. Notice when it lies beside it: if in warm weather, try a cooler, more open bed or a simple blanket.

A strong detergent smell, fleas, an unpleasant event near the bed or another cat taking it over can put a cat off. If the cat avoids jumping or hides, it may also be a sign of pain, so talk to a vet.

Briefly setting a calm cat in the bed is fine, but do not hold it there, as that can create a negative association. It is better to let the cat discover the bed itself and praise or treat it when it lies down there.

The sofa and bed smell of the owners, sit higher up and are usually where family life happens. Put the cat bed on or next to the sofa, or lay a blanket on it that becomes the cat's spot and protects the furniture.

Another cat's scent interests some cats and unsettles others. Wash or thoroughly clean such a bed before offering it, then put in a blanket carrying the new cat's scent.

Some cats try a new bed straight away, others need days or weeks. The key is the right spot, a familiar scent and patience, and if the cat still ignores it after a long while, try a different shape.

Washing the cover or bed every few weeks is usually enough, with hair vacuumed off more often. Wash it straight away if it gets soiled, the cat is ill or fleas appear in the home.