How to Buy the Right Size Pet Bed for a Cat

Most cat owners have one thing in common: they love to pamper their furry best friend. If you are the proud owner of a 10-year-old tabby or a 10-month-old Siamese; you want to give the four-legged member of your family a comfortable place to take long naps during the day. The perfect solution is a cat bed and there are many sizes, fabrics, and colors available.

Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a bed that is large enough to accommodate your cat's size when it is stretching out. Do not purchase one that is too large. Cats like to feel the sense of security that comes from a snug cat bed that is just large enough to fit their entire body. Measure your cat from the tip of its tail to the top of the head. Add a few inches to this number and purchase a bed that is roughly the same size as that measurement.

    • 2

      Purchase a bed that is easily accessible for your cat. This is especially important if you have a kitten or an older cat who cannot maneuver over higher walled beds. Your best option is the classically shaped bed that has slightly raised walls and a shallower entrance.

    • 3

      Give your cat a bed that is made of natural fibers such as cotton, feathers, wool, or kapok. These materials will not irritate a cat who could be suffering from allergies to man-made materials such as polyester.

    • 4

      Make sure that the bed is machine washable. This will ensure that the cat's area is free of excess hair and will make it easier to rid your home of fleas, if this problem should arise.

    • 5

      Choose a bed that coordinates with your home's décor. The cat will not care what color or pattern is featured on the bed, so find one that will coordinate well with your personal taste.

    • 6

      Be prepared to move your cat bed to different rooms in your home. Some cats prefer to sleep in the quiet solitude of an empty bedroom while others enjoy the bustle of the kitchen. The cat will let you know when you've found just the right spot.

    • 7

      Cats are very territorial and believe any items brought into the home are automatically their property. This will also be true of its new bed. Don't be surprised when your cat begins using the bed soon after you bring it home.